KARAOKE is more than a pastime it's a fierce competition where contestants sing like Whitney Houston, Elton John and scream like Jimmy Barnes.
Four hopefuls will battle for $1000 at Dave Wright's Star Event Karaoke Final at Camden RSL on Friday night.
Jacqueline Torres, 23, is a self-confessed ``karaoke junkie'' who hopes to impress with her vocals.
Her parents told her about the Camden competition, which she could not resist.
``I've actually been singing and following in my mum's footsteps since I was age4 or 5,'' Miss Torres said. ``With karaoke, I've been doing it since I was age16. I have a really huge passion for singing. That's my dream. I've always wanted to be a singer.''
Miss Torres hopes karaoke will lead to a music career and she loves being on stage. ``The adrenalin is really really good. It's the best feeling. I love singing old songs like those by Mariah Carey or Whitney Houston because it shows off my voice a lot.''
Celine Dion's music has helped Miss Torres, with Think Twice earning her a spot in the final.
Dave Wright's Star Event Karaoke organiser Glenn Ware said people love to see others singing and dancing. ``They've been doing it at parties since the beginning of time,'' he said. ``Everyone wants to get up and perform.''
Popular songs include New York, New York and works by Whitney Houston, Elton John and Shania Twain.
Dave Wright's Star Event Karaoke Final, Camden RSL, Friday, 8.30pm. Guest judges will be writer, composer and producer Paul Knite and WSFM and Sunrise reporter Alf Paranihi.