CKUP Chicago Karaoke Underground Party

When I moved to Chicago, I didn’t know that many people. My circle of friends and trust has expanded greatly in four years.
Moment of honesty: I had (have) severe anxiety and socialization issues. I used to have terrible stage fright. Don’t get me started on coping with situation where I need to meet new people. I’m still not cured. I may never feel 100% OK with going out, but I’ve come a long way. Karaōke has helped me.
I love to sing. I love to drink. And despite being terrified of people misunderstanding me and judging me, I love getting to know potential friends and feeling as if I’m part of something special. CKUP is one of those thing where I actively force myself to make events because I know as uncomfortable as I’ll feel talking myself into it, I’m going to have a good time by the end of the night. I also know I’ll regret it more if I don’t go. And I also know that alcohol helps.
I joined Chicago Karaōke Underground Party through
. My friend, Mike N., was looking to expand his social network. We met through karaōke and share a mutual love of it (ask me for the unabridged version sometime). He found the website for this group and convinced me to join. I can easily say it was one of the best decisions I’ve made since uprooting myself from MN.
The price is very affordable. It’s typically $ 35pp. It used to be $ 40. Some of the larger parties are more expensive, but only marginally. Anyway, the cost secures your spot. Singers are limited to ensure you get to sing at least 4 songs per night, if you stay the entire time. It also covers food and drinks.
Monica, the hostess with the mostest, goes above and beyond to make sure everyone is comfortable and taken care of. She normally orders a catered buffet, but she often cooks much of the food herself and it’s fan-​fucking-​tastic. If there’s ever an event with her infamous brisket, don’t miss out! I always find something to eat and fill up on food before hitting the bar which, by the way, is an open bar with plenty of bottles to chose from and a wide selection of mixers.
The main goal is for everyone to have a good time. The karaōke parties are held in a private loft near the Chicago Blue Line stop. The actual address and directions are given after you’ve signed up via Meetup and been approved to participate. Most of the members come frequently, but we always have a nice rotation of «karaōke virgins» every month whom are welcomed with open arms, open mic and the open bar. It doesn’t get much better than this!