The karaoke scene in Laramie is not an exceptionally large community but is something that goes beyond simply drinking in the local bars. There are a variety of popular spots that put on karaoke for different crowds throughout the latter half of each week. While some bars host on the same day, there are clear popularity differences depending on preference.
The Ranger is one of the best-known places for karaoke in Laramie, featuring a divey atmosphere and runs using the Karafun program, which is an industry-standard and hosts a wide selection of song choices. While the singing can often be very regular heavy, there is enough variety that many students enjoy closing down karaoke here after dancing at the Cowboy on Wednesdays. The Ranger runs karaoke from around 10 pm to 2 am when they close out. One unique aspect of karaoke here is that the primary individuals who run the queue will move people up if they have not sung that night or have never done karaoke before, offering priority for those new to the experience.
The Great Untamed is also known for its karaoke nights, often happening on specific events or in relation to things going on downtown. With different themes revolving around identity groups or inclusion, this winery is seen as one of the less rough-and-tumble country-esque bars that Laramie is typically known for, with a general feel that is far more casual and less intoxicated than somewhere like the Ranger or Lovejoys, the Great Untamed feels less like karaoke at a bar and more like performing at a small and secluded venue.
Lovejoys boasts what is likely either the most or second most popular karaoke night in town, hosting on Fridays and often beginning at 9 pm. These nights are typically quite packed during the school year. There are often groups near the dance floor and additional groups spread throughout the booths and tables. One advantage of Lovejoys is that it serves food in addition to the bar which creates a more complete atmosphere. They also use the paper slip sign-up system, which can be more familiar and less intimidating than directly talking to the person running the karaoke. If you want to fill your fix in between the Ranger and Lovejoys, Roxie’s hosts karaoke 10-close on Thursdays which gives patrons a chance to do three straight days of karaoke every week.
Overall the karaoke scene, like many aspects of the bar experience in Laramie, can be limited but still fun. There are options for aspiring performers and casual singers alike to get a drink, have some fun with their friends, meet people, and go out both during the summer and the school year.
