No matter what the occasion, karaoke is always a go to for any social gathering. Whether or not you’re actually a decent singer is but a side note, as karaoke brings out the brightest star in all of us. Lucky for us, New York is a haven for karaoke bars where you and your friends can get together and show off what you’ve been practicing in the shower.

Baby Grand
This small and intimate karaoke bar over in SoHo is one of the most renowned in the city, and is only for the brave at heart. With no private rooms available, singers must perform in front of the whole crowd at Baby Grand. However, considering the quaint size and the extensive wine, beer, and cocktail lists (including sake), it shouldn’t be that daunting to get up and belt out “Don’t Stop Believing.” (161 Lafayette St.; 212-219-8110)

Hill Country
While Hill Country in Midtown sticks to one genre — that being country, classic rock and roll, and honky-tonk — the karaoke experience at Hill Country is like nothing else in the city. A live band backs up your incredible vocal talent here, and they know a lot of tunes. With exceptional BBQ and plenty of beer to go around, Hill Country has more of a backyard BBQ vibe and is warm and welcome to all who want to have a good time. (30 W 26th St.; 212-255-4544)

Duet 35
Over in Midtown West, you’ll find one of the karaoke duet institutions. With a constantly updating list of pop classic from 70s to today, your go-to karaoke tune is more than likely available. Well seasoned for hosting the local work party or any social gathering with friendsm Duet 35 has seen and heard it all, and their ‘bring your own food’ policy is a nice touch and makes the venue a perfect spot for the after party. (53 W 35th St.; 646-473-0826)

Planet Rose
Planet Rose’s wireless mic allow you to sing from wherever you are in the room so you can belt away at ease secluded in the corner. You’re safe here, unless you’re wearing white, as you’ll stick out against the neon black lights posted everywhere in the room — that being said with cocktails as little as eight bucks perhaps the lighting can only add the the allure. (219 Avenue A; 212-353-9500)

Karaoke Cave
Over in Greenwich Village, you’ll find Karaoke Cave by descending a down a flight of stairs in an unassuming building and entering the cave. Upon ordering your first drink, you’ll get a free song and after that tunes are only one dollar. Perfect for those who prefer the informalities to singing in public, this stageless Karaoke venue is merely a space upfront where you can go crzay on the mic — however, private rooms are available. (11 E 13th St.; 646-486-3225)

Sing Sing
There are two locations of Sing Sing around, but honestly what’s better than a drunken night of karaoke at St. Mark’s? Yes, private rooms are available, but honestly, there’s no shame at St., Mark’s, and belting that Tear for Fears song in front of drunken strangers at the bar is just plain old good fun. (9 St. Marks Pl.; 212-387-7800)

Photo via Flickr user 3V Photo