Palm Beach Post reporter Leslie Streeter participates in a Karaoke contest. (Brandon Kruse/The Palm Beach Post)

Want to sing your heart out? Karaoke is still popular after all these years.

The key to karaoke may be finding the best karaoke host, sometimes called a KJ.

Your KJ will keep things light and fun, but he’ll also keep the pace moving right along so everyone who wants one gets a turn. Alex Doll, a KJ host in Palm Beach County since 2003, says it’s about having a good time, and being as fair as possible so everyone gets a chance. “Whether it’s my best friend or a stranger, everyone gets treated the same,” Doll said.

Top-of-the-line equipment with on-screen lyrics and a huge catalogue of songs are the ticket to a great night of performances. Doll spent more than $18,000 on his set-up, which has a catalogue of more than 37,000 songs.

But there’s also a little bit of karaoke etiquette you should keep in mind before you head over to one of the venues:

1 – Clap for the singers, no matter how bad they are. You’re applauding because they had the guts to get up there, not because they’re the next American Idol.

2 – Don’t get angry if someone else sings ‘your’ song. There are thousands of songs. Pick another one and move on. “It’s first come first served,” Doll said.

3 – Don’t join the singer on stage as a back-up singer or dancer without being invited. And definitely don’t steal the mic from someone.

4 – Treat the equipment with respect. No swinging the mic by the cord or pounding it on the table, please. This includes keeping your drinks away from the equipment. Spilling a drink in the complicated electronics means the show is over for everyone.

Karaoke queen Leslie Gray Streeter recommends these places for karaoke, but call first to confirm:

Little Munich, 806 Lake Ave., Lake Worth. (561) 932-0050 | Directions, invite friends, more

John Bull English Pub, 801 Village Blvd., West Palm Beach. (561) 697-2855 | Directions, invite friends, more

Southshore Tavern, 502 Lucerne Ave., Lake Worth.
(561) 547-7656 | Directions, invite friends, more

Palm Beach Ale House, 2161 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd., West Palm Beach. (561) 683-3777 | Directions, invite friends, more

What’s your favorite karaoke venue? Email me at jfontaine@pbpost.com.