Recording Karaoke Legally: What You Need to Know in London

When you record yourself singing karaoke in London, you’re not just capturing a fun moment—you’re using copyrighted music. That’s where recording karaoke legally, the process of capturing vocal performances with licensed backing tracks under UK copyright rules. Also known as legal karaoke recording, it’s not about stopping the fun—it’s about making sure you don’t accidentally break the law while having it. Most people think if they’re just singing with friends, it’s harmless. But if you’re recording it—even on your phone—and sharing it online, you’re distributing someone else’s music. That’s where things get tricky.

London karaoke venues like All Star Lanes London, a popular spot combining bowling, karaoke, and American diner food and Club 88, a legendary 90s and 2000s karaoke bar in Soho already have public performance licenses. That means they’re allowed to play the music live. But those licenses don’t automatically cover recording and sharing. If you want to post your version of "I Will Survive" or "Livin’ on a Prayer" on Instagram or TikTok, you need permission from the rights holders—usually through organizations like PRS for Music or PPL. Some venues offer private recording booths or allow you to record with their equipment, but only if they’ve got the right clearance. Always ask before you hit record.

There’s a smarter way: use licensed karaoke apps or platforms that give you legal backing tracks, like Singa or Smule. These services have already paid for the rights, so your recordings are safe to share. Or stick to original songs, covers with permission, or public domain tunes—think old jazz standards or folk songs from before 1928. You’ll still get the fun, the laughs, the terrible high notes—but without the legal risk.

What you’ll find below are real, practical posts from London’s nightlife scene that touch on everything from where to sing your heart out to how venues handle music rights. Whether you’re planning a girls’ night at a themed karaoke bar, trying to figure out if your video is safe to post, or just want to know why some places don’t let you record—this collection has you covered. No guesswork. Just clear, local advice so your next karaoke night stays fun, loud, and totally legal.