What would you do?

[bluekaraoke]

 I was at a karaoke bar that I had never been in just to check it out.
 I watched for a little while to see what was happening. I was able to quickly spot the "hero" singer.
 This cat sang a couple of tunes and wasnt to bad. I decided what the heck I will put in a couple tunes just to have some fun and maybe get to know some of the folks here as it is close to my house and would be a good hangout. I was called to come up and sing my first tune so away I went. I AM NOT THE WORLDS GREATEST SINGER however I usually have a few people think I do o.k.
 So anyway I sing and our local hero proceeds to stop me on my way back to my table and tells me NEVER come in here and sing that song again IT IS HIS SIGNATURE SONG !!!!
I say what? He ask that I just go ahead and leave because this is his bar (he was not the owner) and his crowd. I say what? Fortunately the KJ saw something was awry and asked what the problem was.
I explained the situation to her and she went to get the bar owner. They talked to the hero and he
sheepishly apologized and they asked me to stay around,sing some more and bought me a couple of beers.
What would you have done if approached in this manner. I did not follow up on my first thought as jail time in Oklahoma was not a good option.
 I think the KJ and bar owner did what was apporopriate. I am going back Saturday and sing the same song.
 Thanks, Blue

[KrazyKat Admin]

Hi Blue,

As far as I can see you did nothing wrong. No karaoke singer can 'own' a song in that manner. Nor was there any way for you to know that the song you chose was the regulars signature tune as this was your first visit to the venue.

The regular was way out of order for telling you not to sing that song and for threatening you and I'm sure if he had been more polite and friendly with his request (i.e., hey that was great, we haven't seen u before, welcome ... btw hope u don't mind but that's my signature tune and I'd really appreciate it if u'd let me do it next time u come etc etc) then the situation wouldn't have become tense in the first place.

It is sad that some people form cliques and make newcomers feel unwelcome. The whole point of Karaoke is to let everyone of any standard or style get up and have a go. Whilst it is always great to see a good singer with a bunch of friends and fans, intimidation and song exclusivity should never be encouraged as it goes against everything that Karaoke is about.

The KJ dealt with the situation perfectly and for future reference, the KJ and Bar Owner should be the first port of call in the case of a dispute. It's their venue and their decision to make if they want to play favourites.

You mention that things were smoothed over and you got on with the guy afterwards, so certainly don't let this encounter put you off and make an effort to chat with him next time to see if you can compromise. If he's a good singer with a similar vocal range, maybe you can both learn something from each other and swap song ideas ;-)

KrazyKat