Questions for Carolyn
By: Carolyn Hawks

"Why can't I hear myself on stage when I am singing?"

This question does not have a patent answer. Stage acoustics are subject to a myriad of problems. It could be something as simple as the KJ didn't recognize the mix (volume levels on the CD vs. your mic) was poor and didn't
turn up the gain (volume) on your mic, or you didn't use good mic technique.....to something as complicated as monitor speaker placement vs. stage layout.

As a karaoke singer you have the right to ask for more mic volume, however be aware that if you move the mic around and come anywhere near the monitor speaker, you will create feedback (a very noisy squeal resulting from the mic
picking up it's own signal from the speaker) and could result in damage to the system. Any KJ will cut the mic volume as soon as they hear the telltale beginnings of feedback.

Make sure you are singing INTO the mic not over the top of it or so far away that it can't pick you up. Keep the mic pointed directly at your mouth and about 3 fingers width away. Every mic has a "sweet spot" that is it's optimum best area to pick up your sound. As you sing move the mic back and forth a bit from your mouth and you will hear the clarity and depth increase when you are in the "sweet spot".

DON'T cover up most of the mic screen with your hands or fingers. This blocks the mic from picking up what you are singing, or at the least distorts the sound so that it doesn't come out over the speakers very well. I DON'T CARE IF YOU SAW YOUR FAVORITE SINGER DO IT IN A VIDEO!!! Remember, the sound you heard in the video is probably not that live performance but a studio mix overdubbed (re-recorded and laid over the video) at a later time.

When you step on the stage, notice where the monitor speaker is in relation to where the overhead stage lighting, or a mic stand, is directing you to stand while you are singing. If the monitor speaker is on the floor and down in front of you, you have a better chance of hearing yourself. However, you also have to be doubly careful about feedback. If you tend to drop the mic down to your side or wave it around a lot, you will be creating feedback continually. If the monitor speaker is behind you and about shoulder level, you will hear yourself better if you walk over near it but again, as soon as
your body isn't blocking the sound coming from the speaker, you will create feedback. The KJ will usually have an intentional area for you to be in. Go there...it is for your benefit as well as theirs.

As a Chartbuster karaoke CD dealer I have found that there are a lot of differences in the mix between the various karaoke labels. Contact me regarding songs you need, some of which you may be able to sample at my studio, and I will deliver your order to you at your favorite club! 619-442-1880 or HawksHKaraoke@aol.com.

Carolyn