The Z Bar: Z Place For Karaoke In Reno
Photo by Matthias Wagner on Unsplash.
Karaoke is something I’ve always wanted to try for years. I struggle with stage fright badly, coming from a long history of church choirs, children’s theater groups and worship teams. I was always taught that music should only be about God or exist in an educational space, never for personal gain or vanity, so the idea of being vulnerable even in front of family terrifies me. I’ve never been told I’m a terrible singer, but there’s something about it that feels like you’re bearing your soul to someone. Religious trauma made sure that any ideas of grandeur for chasing a life in music were snuffed out fairly early.
As I’ve grown and healed, my interest in singing in front of people has never disappeared. It’s not that the desire is to be famous or be in the spotlight, but simply to share art that resonates with me with others. It’s also the space that I feel the most authentic and how I have the most fun. We all joke about singing in the shower or in the car on the way to work, but before the pandemic lockdowns hit, I actually started taking voice lessons to build my confidence. Obviously that didn’t last long, but the next logical obstacle to conquer is karaoke.
When the night started for us at Z Bar on Thursday, I was nervous for what the vibe would be. Previous karaoke sessions I’ve attended were in super dive-y places, with sketchy people. I was fully prepared to be a silent observer, but as we ventured outside to the patio area, we immediately hit it off with some of the nicest people I’ve ever met. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, just like the fire pits that were running full blast in the 25 degree weather. One man brought his cat, who sat comfortably on his shoulder for most of the evening.
While I didn’t muster up the courage to take up the mic, I was pleasantly surprised at the variety of the tracklist: Black Eyed Peas, Vanessa Carlton, Frank Sinatra, Amy Winehouse, The Killers, and some country, of course. It wasn’t confined to 80s hits or old Hollywood jazz but was a wonderful array of youthful, high-energy bops enough to get the whole crowd engaged. There were a few people who were clearly trained musicians and performers, but it didn’t discourage less talented people from participating. You could tell no one genuinely cared about whether or not you were ‘good,’ and that’s the beauty of karaoke. We were with awesome company, the drinks weren’t too expensive and I got to laugh until my insides hurt.
Maybe one day I’ll be able to work past my fear, but for now I will carry the memories of that night with me always. Having the ability to make new friends and experience joy with my fellow humans was something I desperately needed. Z Bar facilitated an environment that was uncritical, uplifting and safe — and I will definitely be planning another outing in the future. Perhaps next time, I’ll get a track or two under my belt.
