Trade Secrets: Kill It at Karaoke

By Allie Oosta

Illustration: Chris Skiles

Photo: Courtesy Erika Schultz

WHEN WE HEARD that David Boardman, executive editor of The Seattle Times, belts out a mean karaoke number, our perspective shifted. Maybe we don’t need several glasses of liquid courage to succeed at our favorite bar pastime. We just need Boardman’s editorial guidance.

1. Go Back in Time You listen to KEXP, and have great taste, but don’t choose the latest. Instead, think Top 40 from 10, 20, or 30 years ago.

2. Have a Repertoire Have more than two unique options on deck—someone might beat you to it.

3. Redefine Gender Rules Think outside the obvious to enhance your performance; only sing “Like a Virgin” if you’re a dude.