From the Grand Aerie Website (http://foe.com/):

Everyone gets to be a star during karaoke. Bill Loffer, FOE membership chairman, says that star quality and the fun and camaraderie that go along with karaoke make this form of entertainment so popular among Eagle members.

“It doesn’t matter whether the performance is good or bad, karaoke is entertaining to both performers and listeners,” Loffer said. “Karaoke is simple and lacks the complexity and expense associated with a band. Anyone with a CD player can host a karaoke event.”

Stars among us

Karaoke in the U.S. dates back to the early 1960s when a karaoke-like series, Sing Along With Mitch, aired on NBC. This form of entertainment, however, did not get cranked up among the Eagles until the 1990s.

“Eagle members sing karaoke everywhere—from small aeries and auxiliaries in more remote locations within the U.S. and Canada to larger clubs in metropolitan areas,” Loffer described. “The Eagles have so many talented karaoke performers in our midst that we are considering showcasing some of these individuals at the International Convention instead of booking some of the celebrity entertainers.”

Songs Eagle karaoke performers sing run the gamut—from oldies and classics to rock & roll and country. Some aeries and auxiliaries use karaoke nights as fundraisers and to attract new members, while others plan karaoke sessions as social events and as ice breakers to become acquainted with individuals who are new to our organization.

Getting everyone involved

Karaoke DJs often have a considerable following and may bring 30 or 40 individuals with them, bringing new people into local aeries and auxiliaries. Karaoke also rocks the hallways at the International Convention where DJs like David “Hondo” Locke typically bring two sets of equipment with them so they perform for scheduled events and provide karaoke for the hospitality suites.

“Everyone should try karaoke—it’s a great way for Eagles members to show off their talents and enjoy the company of their fellow members,” Loffer said. “Karaoke is enjoyable for individuals of all ages, including the young people in our FOE Junior Order of Eagles clubs.

“Who knows, the next big singing sensation may be among us.”