Hip Hop Karaoke

Overview

Do you still know every word to Eminem's 'Lose Yourself' (not just 'spaghetti')? Can you do the whole verse to Nicki Minaj's 'Monster' with a sufficient number of sassy head bobs and eye bulges? Maybe you're just nostalgic for the days of hoop earrings, low-rider jeans and Adidas kicks. We feel ya, and so do the legends at 1000 £ Bend. In an unlikely union of Japanese novelty and gangsta beatz, Hip Hop Karaoke has been born.

Now in its third instalment, this monthly slice of gangsta's paradise (yeah, we worked it in) is pulling big crowds. It's a first come first served policy on the mic so if you want to sing, get in early at 9pm. Once you have the stage, there are a few rules too. Obviously there's no racial or homophobic slurs, and thankfully there's no freestyling. Also, costumes are "heavily encouraged", so if you have a huge Snoop Dogg fur coat and cane you've been saving for a special occasion — your time has finally arrived.

It's also worth pointing out that there are no lyric sheets on the night. Pick your song in advance and get practising. If that sounds a little daunting, don't worry. Drinks are $5 between 9-10pm; you'll find the courage somehow.