Paul Kelly, Snoop Dogg and you: A new kind of karaoke hits Melbourne

Paul Kelly, Snoop Dogg and you: A new kind of karaoke hits Melbourne August 9, 2026, 7:30pm At St Kilda’s Esplanade Hotel on Saturday, a group of five individuals took turns belting out Bruno Mars’ “24K Magic” in a manner that defied conventional expectations. They rapped, howled and laughed through the gently funky track, crafting their own lyrics while maintaining a loose grip on the rhythm. The performance, part of a weekly karaoke event called Rockeoke, drew cheers and applause from the audience, who danced and snapped photos as if witnessing a concert. This informal yet vibrant scene unfolded in one of Melbourne’s most cherished live music venues, where the boundaries between amateur performers and seasoned musicians blur. Rockeoke, which takes place every Saturday evening, offers participants the chance to sing their favorite tunes under the guidance of a live band. The event has become a staple for locals seeking to fulfill their musical ambitions, regardless of skill level. Singers can select from a curated list of 65 songs, ranging from classics like INXS’ “Never Tear Us Apart” and Oasis’ “Wonderwall” to modern hits such as Billie Eilish’s “Ocean Eyes.” For those eager to try something different, the band is open to requests, including off-list tracks like Metallica’s “Enter Sandman.” Keyboard player Thomas Byrne confirmed the flexibility of the lineup, ensuring that even unconventional choices receive a respectful performance. One standout moment during the session saw a group of friends take the “where do we go now?” line from Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child O’ Mine” quite literally, straying from both lyrics and melody. Despite this, the group remained engaged and entertained, embodying the spirit of fun and spontaneity that defines Rockeoke. Guitarist Simon Paparo emphasized that perfection isn’t the goal, rather, the focus is on enjoyment and participation. He noted that the band helps performers navigate key sections of a song, ensuring that even those with limited experience feel supported. Among the many who took to the stage, Eadiella, a singer from Hampton, delivered a flawless rendition of Amy Winehouse’s “Back to Black.” Her performance captured the raw emotion and distinctive vocal style of the late icon, prompting the crowd to sway and sing along as though at a major festival. The energy in the room was palpable, with attendees fully immersed in the shared experience of live music. The concept for Rockeoke originated from a serendipitous event, a Gaelic football club’s post-finals Mad Monday party at the Espy, where a karaoke segment proved wildly popular. Venue manager Dan Lovett recalled the success of that initial gathering and decided to formalize the idea into a regular weekly event. By combining the Espy’s reputation for live rock music with the accessibility of karaoke, Rockeoke has found a unique niche in Melbourne’s cultural landscape. Currently, approximately 36 individuals sign up for Rockeoke each week, with the event running from 11pm until 2am on Saturdays. The turnout continues to grow, with Lovett expressing optimism about future expansion. He mentioned the possibility of moving the event to the Espy’s main stage or the Gershwin Room, should demand increase. The demographic range of participants is equally diverse, spanning ages from 18 to 80. One memorable instance involved an 80-year-old who performed The Crazy World of Arthur Brown’s “Fire,” a psychedelic rock anthem known for its iconic line, “I am the god of hellfire!” Lovett highlighted the inclusive nature of Rockeoke, noting that even performances deemed imperfect contribute positively to the atmosphere. “As long as you get up there and have a crack, you’re going to have a great time,” he remarked. This philosophy underscores the event’s appeal, offering a space where music lovers of all backgrounds can connect through shared passion and laughter.