Karaoke disc reviews!

If you regularly buy karaoke discs like I do, you might know how expensive and addictive a habit it is. No, I'm not a karaoke host, nor do I go out to karaoke shows every night to drink myself silly and sing my substantial ass off. I just like to collect karaoke discs and sing at home-- and I venture out to Fort Belvoir's Officer's Club most Friday nights to hang out with other karaoke enthusiasts!.

Anyway, I find it very useful to read product reviews. I'm a member of Epinions.com, where I read and write reviews of a variety of products. I find that a well written review helps me make wise purchases. Oddly enough, I've found that there aren't a whole lot of product reviews for karaoke discs. Karaoke.com is the only karaoke retailer I've come across that offers product reviews. Unfortunately, most of the reviews lack detail-- and the last few times I've tried to add my own reviews, I've found that I haven't been able to do so because of some glitch. That's pretty frustrating.

If you've seen my karaoke page, you already know that I really like Sound Choice Karaoke CDGs and I try to buy them whenever possible. However, sometimes I want a song that's not available on Sound Choice, or I may want to spend less money to get a specific song in my library, or another brand might put out a disc that has more songs on it that I like for less money. And sometimes, even Sound Choice puts out stinkers and another label might offer a better rendition.

Since I have my own website, I figured it makes sense for me to offer my opinions about some of the karaoke discs that I own. That's the purpose of this page. Whenever possible, I will provide a link to a site that will allow my visitors to order the discs that I review. I will also rate the disc from one to five stars; you'll see the rating to the left of the disc's title. I'm hoping that those of you who are karaoke junkies like I am will find this page useful when you shop for CDGs!

Blues Titles

****Legends of the Blues Vol. 1 (SC8327) This is an interesting collection of blues songs in Sound Choice's Legends of the Blues collection. This disc, which does not include demonstration tracks or printed lyrics, contains a fantastic version of Stevie Ray Vaughan's "Pride and Joy", as well as songs by James Brown, Muddy Waters, Albert King, and B.B. King. Whoever played guitar for "Pride and Joy" is really impressive!

****Legends of the Blues Vol. 2 (SC8339)

I don't know most of the songs on this disc; however, I am a big James Taylor fan and it contains a fabulous live version of "Steamroller". Eric Clapton fans will appreciate "Before You Accuse Me" and those who love B.B. King will probably love the three of his songs that are included on this disc, which doesn't include printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

****Legends of the Blues Vol. 3 (SC8675)

I got this disc for the great version of Bonnie Raitt's "Love Me Like A Man" that is included on it. Those who love Stevie Ray Vaughan (as I do) will also appreciate "Texas Flood". I also discovered Susan Tedeschi because of this particular CDG-- fantastic renditions of her songs, "It Hurt So Bad" and "Rock Me Right" are on this disc! There are no printed lyrics or demonstration tracks on this disc.

*****Legends of the Blues Vol. 4 (SC8814)

I think this is my favorite of the Sound Choice Legends of the Blues series. I love performing "Give It Up Or Let Me Go" and "Guilty" by Bonnie Raitt. I also love doing Pat Benatar's "True Love". I've never found any of these songs on discs by other manufacturers. There are no printed lyrics or demonstration tracks on this disc.

****Legends of the Blues Vol. 5 (SC8893)

Ike and Tina Turner Revue fans will appreciate "A Fool In Love". Susan Tedeschi fans will like "Just Won't Burn". I don't know why, but this disc also has "Smoking Gun" by Robert Cray; that song also appears on the first Legends of the Blues disc (Vol. 1). I've also discovered the very funny song "I Ain't Drunk" by Albert Collins because it's on this disc. This disc does not include printed lyrics or demonstration tracks. If you like Janis Joplin, look for "One Good Man" done in her style.

Bluegrass Titles

*****The Grass Is Blue Vols. 1 and 2 (SC8693) and (SC8751)

If you love bluegrass music and old hymns, you will love these two CDGs. I love performing "I'll Fly Away" by Alison Krauss and Gillian Welch, as well as "Seven Bridges Road" by Dolly Parton. There's also an awesome rendition of "Soul Of Constant Sorrow" by Patty Loveless, as well as "Man Of Constant Sorrow" by The Soggy Bottom Boys (led by Dan Tyminski). In fact, if you loved the music from O Brother Where Art Thou, you will love BOTH of these CDGs!

Country Titles

****Female Country Hits-Vol. 7 (SC2122)

I bought this disk mainly because it was on sale for $3.99 a few months ago on Karaoke.com. It contains a great rendition of "Wild Angels" by Martina McBride, as well as "Mi Vida Loca (My Crazy Life) by Pam Tillis. There are eight performance tracks on this CDG, as well as corresponding demonstration tracks. This disc also includes printed lyrics. I don't use this disc very often, but that's because I don't know most of the songs. I'm very pleased with the quality.

*****Female Country Hits of 2000 (SC8653)

I purchased this disc because I was looking for a good rendition of Trisha Yearwood's "Real Live Woman". I found that on this disc, as well as a beautiful version of "There You Are" by Martina McBride! If you like the Dixie Chicks, you might be pleased to find fine versions of "Cold Day In July" and "Without You". There are 16 tracks on this disc, which is one more than usual; Sound Choice usually puts 15 tracks on its CDGs. This disc does not come with printed lyrics, nor are there demonstration tracks. As evidenced by the disc's title, all songs were originally performed by women.

*****Best Female Country Hits of 2004 (SC8904)

My husband bought me this CDG so that I could perform "How's The World Treating You" by Alison Krauss and James Taylor. There's also a great version of "Whiskey Lullaby" by Alison Krauss and Brad Paisley. "Suds In The Bucket" and "Perfect" by Sara Evans are also featured on this disc, as well as "Redneck Woman" and "Here For the Party" by Gretchen Wilson. This is a fabulous disc for anyone who wants to sing female country hits from 2004. There are no printed lyrics or demonstration tracks on this disc.

****Country Hits-Vol. 19 (SC8149)

This is another bargain disc I got at Karaoke.com for $3.99. I bought it mainly because it contained Alabama's "Angels Among Us". I have not seen that song on another CDG. It also contains "Heart Trouble" by Martina McBride and "Till I was Loved By You" by Chely Wright. This disc offers high quality renditions and accurate on screen lyrics. It does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

****Country Hits (SC8256)

I picked this disc up for $11.49 on Karaoke.com. I bought it because it contains "What More Do You Want From Me" by Rhonda Vincent. I'm ashamed to say that I don't know any of the other songs on this disc! Everything sounds good, though, as far as I can tell and the song I bought the CDG for is just fine. There are no printed lyrics or demo tracks included.

****Country Hits (SC8179)

This is yet another sale disc from my favorite karaoke retailer. I bought it for Linda Ronstadt's "Walk On", which sounds great. I don't know any of the other songs on this CDG, but as usual, Sound Choice has put out a fine disc. There are no printed lyrics or demo tracks included.

****70s and 80s Country (SC8421)

This is another disc I got on sale. It includes some great old contry songs from the 70s and 80s like "I Told You So" by Randy Travis, "Southern Nights" by Glen Campbell, and "Two More Bottles Of Wine" by Emmylou Harris. Excellent quality, as usual. This disc does not contain demo tracks or printed lyrics.

****70s and 80s Country Vol. 25 (SC8628)

I got this disc on sale, but it has a number of great country songs from the 70s and 80s. There's "Let Your Love Flow" by the Bellamy Brothers, "Have I Got A Deal For You" by Reba McEntire, and three songs by Alabama, including "Fallin' Again", "Tennessee River", and "Dixieland Delight". Very good quality... No lyrics or demonstration tracks.

*****Country Hits-Vol. 43 (SC8224)

I give this disc five stars just because it contains a fantastic version of "Oh Atlanta" by Alison Krauss and Union Station. I have not seen "Oh Atlanta" done by any other label, but Sound Choice has done such a fantastic job that I doubt any other label could rival it! Truthfully, "Oh Atlanta" is the only song on this disc that I perform, but I have listened to the rest of this disc and found it very satisfactory. This disc does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

*****Country Hits-Vol. 68 (SC8306)

I managed to get a copy of this great disc even though it's been discontinued. It contains such rarities as "New Fool" by Alison Krauss and Union Station and "O Mexico" by Trisha Yearwood. I have not found "New Fool" or "O Mexico" on any other karaoke label and both songs are very well done. Other songs include "Let The Good Times Roll" by Tanya Tucker, "In This Little Town" by Restless Heart, "Bible Belt" by Travis Tritt, and "Healing" by Wynonna and Michael English. This disc does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks. You may have trouble finding it as well. I got my copy used from DooWop.com.

*****Country Hits-Vol. 105 (SC8498)

I got a fantastic bargain on this disc from Karaoke.com. A few weeks ago, it was priced there at a mere $1.99; needless to say, it quickly sold out! I purchased this disc for "Freedom" by Wynonna and "I Give To You His Heart" by Alison Krauss and Union Station. Those who are Garth Brooks fans might want to check out this disc for "It's Your Song" and "Tearin' It Up" (and Burnin' It Down). This disc does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

****PowerPicks Country Picks-Vol. 198 (SC3437)

This disc just came out last week. I bought it because I wanted a Sound Choice version of "Restless" by Alison Krauss and Union Station-- I already have two other discs with "Restless" on them, but I knew Sound Choice would put out the best one available. This disc comes with printed lyrics and demonstration tracks, so I should have no trouble learning the other songs on this CDG. Maybe I'll try to learn "My Sister" by Reba McEntire. This is a Limited Edition disc.

****Hits of Restless Heart-Vol.1 (SC2165)

This is another bargain disc that I got for $3.99 at Karaoke.com. I mainly bought it so that my collection would have some songs by Restless Heart. I don't do these songs myself, but I have been pleased with the quality of the songs on this disc as well as the accuracy of the lyrics. Look for "I'll Still Be Loving You", "The Bluest Eyes in Texas", and "You Can Depend On Me". This disc comes with printed lyrics and demonstration tracks.

*****Hits of Trisha Yearwood-Vols. 1 and 2 (SC2096) and (SC2143)

I own both of these Sound Choice Star discs with songs in the style of Trisha Yearwood. I was really pleased to find "On A Bus To St. Cloud" and "You Can Sleep While I Drive" on Vol. 2 as well as "Walkaway Joe" on Vol. 1. Both of these disks are very well done and accurate, perhaps to a fault. "On A Bus To St. Cloud" starts with a 16 measure introduction which may seem a bit long to some folks! Printed lyrics and demonstration tracks are on both of these discs.

****Hits of Patsy Cline-Vol. 1 (SC2002)

I bought this CDG because I was looking for Patsy Cline songs that sounded more authentic. For the most part, I think Sound Choice did an excellent job with this disc. It includes eight classic Patsy Cline songs such as "Crazy", "Sweet Dreams", and "Walkin' After Midnight", as well as some lesser known ones like "Leavin' On Your Mind". This is a good disc if you want high quality renditions and don't mind a lack of variety. It comes with guide vocals.

*****Hits of Alison Krauss-Vol. 1 (SC2362)

In case you haven't noticed, I am a huge Alison Krauss and Union Station fan! This Sound Choice disc contains eight AKUS tracks, all well done and all with accompanying demonstration tracks and printed lyrics. The only complaint I have is that all of the songs are ones that are sung by Alison Krauss. There aren't any Dan Tyminski songs on this disc (not that I would sing them). Still, I use this disc every time I do karaoke; I particularly love "Baby, Now That I've Found You" and "The Lucky One". I doubt most AKUS fans will be disappointed.

*****Hits of Alison Krauss- Vol. 1 (SC8911)

This is a brand new collection just put out by Sound Choice. It includes fifteen songs from both volumes of the Sound Choice Star Series discs. This CDG features only songs sung by Alison Krauss and none by other Union Station members. There are no lyrics or demonstration vocals, but the music quality is excellent and the lyrics are accurate. One thing I did notice is that the musical break on "Oh Atlanta" (which was on an older CDG) was edited down from 30 measures to 16. This isn't a bad thing, though.

70s & 80s Titles

****70s & 80s- Vol. 5 (SC8176)

This CDG offers a classic lineup of great songs from the 1980s, including "867-5309 (Jenny)" by Tommy Tutone, "Abracadabra" by the Steve Miller Band, and "You Dropped A Bomb On Me" by The Gap Band. Printed lyrics and demonstration tracks are not included.

****70s & 80s- Vol. 6 (SC8178)

Volume 6 also features great songs from the 70s and 80s, but with more of a classic rock mood. This disc has great versions of Argent's "Hold Your Head Up", "Dream Weaver" by Gary Wright, and "Moonlight Feels Right" by Starbuck. Printed lyrics and demo tracks are not included.

****70s & 80s- Vol. 23 (SC8322)

This disc has a great selection of 15 songs from the 70s and 80s, including "All Night Long" by Joe Walsh, "Come Sail Away" by Styx, "Big Shot" by Billy Joel, and "Strut" by Sheena Easton. I think this disc leans more toward classic rock than some of the other 70s and 80s discs by Sound Choice, although it also includes pop songs like "Cruel Summer" by Bananarama and "You Are My Lady" by Freddie Jackson. This disc does not include printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

***1/2 70s and 80s- Vol. 28 (SC8417)

I got this CDG on sale; I probably wouldn't have bought it otherwise. This disc contains a pretty good version of "Haven't Got Time For The Pain" by Carly Simon and "Your Smilin' Face" by James Taylor. The rest of the songs are kind of lame, in my book, although they are of the usual high Sound Choice quality. There are no lyrics or demonstration tracks.

****70s & 80s- Vol. 39 (SC8514)

I bought this disc because it includes Fleetwood Mac's "Gold Dust Woman". Truthfully, it's the only song I usually do in public, although I like some of the other songs, as well-- they include: "Shadow Dancing" by Andy Gibb, "Promises" by Eric Clapton, "Let's Go Crazy" by Prince and the Revolution, and "Radioactive" by The Firm. There are no printed lyrics or demonstration tracks included with this disc.

****70s & 80s- Vol. 50 (SC8585)

This is a pretty good CDG. I bought it for Chaka Khan's "Through The Fire", but it also includes music by artists as varied as Earth Wind & Fire, Debbie Gibson, and Whitesnake. All of the songs are pretty close to sounding like the originals. There are no printed lyrics or demonstration vocals included with this disc.

*****70s & 80s- Vol. 68 (SC8763)

I'm happier with this disc than I thought I would be. All of the songs are classic rock hits originally done by male performers. I thought I only wanted it for "Message In A Bottle" by The Police, but it turns out there are a few songs I can do, like "Late In The Evening" by Paul Simon and "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For". I'll bet this CDG is a big hit with men! It doesn't come with printed lyrics or demo vocals.

****70s & 80s- Vol. 70 (SC8808)

This disc came into my collection because it includes "Love Has No Pride" by Bonnie Raitt, a song that I haven't seen on another karaoke CDG; it also includes a really good live version of "Angel From Montgomery" by Bonnie Raitt. This disc also contains an Eagles song--"Love Will Keep Us Alive", pretty rare for Sound Choice. Like Bruce Springsteen? There's a fantastic rendition of "Cadillac Ranch". Again, there are no printed lyrics or demonstration tracks included with this disc.

****70's & 80's - Vol. 49 (SC8583)

This disc only includes hit songs by men, but most of them are winners. I bought this CDG for "Don't Give Up" by Kate Bush and Peter Gabriel. I imagine I'll also enjoy Van Halen's "Finish What Ya Started". This disc does not include demonstration vocals or printed lyrics.

****70's & 80's - Vol. 73 (SC8886)

I bought this CDG for Bruce Springsteen's "Jersey Girl", but there's also a great rendition of "Heaven Knows" by Donna Summer and Brooklyn Dreams. As a bonus, this disc includes a duet version as well as a version that can be done alone. There are no printed lyrics or demonstration vocals.

****70s & 80s- Vol. 10 (SC8201)

I mainly got this disc to torment my husband. It includes "Seasons In The Sun" by Terry Jacks, "Biggest Part Of Me" by Ambrosia, and "I'm Too Sexy" by Right Said Fred. There are no printed lyrics or demo vocals.

*****70s & 80s- Vol. 36 (SC8477)

This disc has a beautiful version of Joan Baez's "Diamonds and Rust". I used to have a horse with that name, so I had to pick up this CDG! Violent Femmes' "Blister In The Sun" is also on this disc, as well as David Bowie's "China Girl". This disc does not include printed lyrics or demonstration vocals.

****70s & 80s- Vol. 40 (SC8518)

This disc has an interesting mix of songs from the 70s and 80s, including "Don't You Forget About Me" by Simple Minds and "Everyday I Write The Book" by Elvis Costello. There are also a few sappy gems from the 1970s like "Sometimes When We Touch" by Dan Hill and "Weekend in New England" by Barry Manilow. Printed lyrics and guide vocals are not included, but all of the renditions are pretty much dead on.

****70s & 80s- Vol. 32 (SC8439)

I bought this CDG for its version of Joni Mitchell's song, "Free Man In Paris" as well as "Draggin' The Line" by Tommy James. It also includes a great rendition of "Mama Told Me Not To Come" by Three Dog Night. Printed lyrics and guide vocals are not included.

****70s & 80s- Vol. 54 (SC8609)

This is a good disc simply because it has a fine version of CCR's "Born On The Bayou". If you like Eric Clapton, you'll also find a good verison of "Forever Man". I bought this disc half price at DooWop.com. It looks like it might have been discontinued. This disc does not include printed lyrics or demonstration vocals.

****70s & 80s- Vol. 65 (SC8684)

I bought this disc for its version of The Who's "Eminence Front". It's very heavy on hard rock, with songs by Guns N' Roses, U2, Boston, and Bruce Springsteen. This disc does not include printed lyrics or demonstration vocals.

Pop Titles

****Hits of Sarah McLachlan (SC2255)

I bought this disc mainly because I wanted a good rendition of "Angel"-- but I also got great versions of "Adia". "I Will Remember You", and "Possession". This disc includes printed lyrics and demonstration tracks.

****90s Female Hits-Vol.5 (SC2064)

My mother in law is a competitive ballroom dancer and she loves Tina Arena's song, "Chains". She bought this disc for me for my upcoming 33rd birthday. This disc also has "Give Me One Reason" by Tracy Chapman and "Waterfalls" by TLC. It includes printed lyrics and demonstration tracks.

****Hits of Dr. Hook- Vol. 1 (SC2318)

This is another CDG I purchased for the sole purpose of annoying my husband. I doubt I'll ever actually sing any of the songs on this disc in public, but they're great to have in my collection. This CDG includes "Sexy Eyes", "Sylvia's Mother", "Sharin' The Night Together", and "When You're In Love With A Beautiful Woman". Curiously missing is Dr. Hook's hit, "Only Sixteen"! This disc includes guide vocals.

*****Ultimate Party Songs (SC2082)

There's not a weak song on this disc, consisting of eight great party songs and corresponding versions with demonstration vocals. I bought it for "Joy To The World" by Three Dog Night, but there's also "Copacabana" by Barry Manilow, "Crocodile Rock" by Elton John, and "Don't Worry Be Happy" by Bobby McFerrin.

****Hits of Bob Marley- Vol. 1 (SC2443)

This is a pretty nice collection of eight of Bob Marley's hits. There's a nice acoustic version of "Redemption Song" as well as a good rendition of "Jammin'". I don't know how often I'll be doing these songs myself, but it's a good disc to have around. This disc includes printed lyrics and demonstration tracks.

****Wedding Music- Vol. 20 (SC2477)

I got this disc for Stevie Wonder's "Ribbon In The Sky", but I've found that this is a pretty decent collection of eight romantic songs suitable for a wedding. The only problem is that the songs are all done by men. This disc includes printed lyrics and demo tracks.

***Pop Hits-Vol. 140 (SC8762R)

I'm kind of disappointed with this CDG. The songs sound good, but I bought it for Mandy Moore's "Only Hope" and that song has been replaced with Avril Lavigne's "Complicated". I don't know most of the other songs on this disc, so it was kind of a waste of money. I guess Sound Choice lost the rights to "Only Hope." What a drag. There are no demonstration tracks or printed lyrics.

****Pop Hits-Vol. 65 (SC8423)

I bought this disc for Beth Nielsen Chapman's "Sand and Water" and Sheryl Crow's "Home". Both are excellent renditions. This disc contains fifteen tracks with no demonstration vocals or lyrics provided.

*****Favorite Pop Duets (SC8482)

This is a really great disc with hit pop duets, mostly from the 1980s. Most of the duets are love songs. All fifteen tracks are excellent quality and very accurate. There are no lyrics or demonstration vocals provided.

*****Hits of the 80s v. 2 (SC8696)

If you're looking for a great 80s CDG, this one may fit the bill! It has 15 80s classics such as the Human League's "Don't You Want Me Baby", Thomas Dolby's "She Blinded Me With Science", and M's "Pop Musik"! There's also a great rendition of Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill". This disc doesn't come with printed lyrics or guide vocals.

****Pop Hits (SC8107)

I bought this CDG mainly for the Eagles' "Peaceful Easy Feeling", but this disc also includes "Brown Eyed Girl" by Van Morrison and "Every Breath You Take" by The Police. There are also a few hits from the 1990s, like "All That She Wants" by Ace of Base and "All For Love" by Rod Stewart, Sting, and Bryan Adams. There are no printed lyrics or demo vocals.

*****Greatest Hits Of All Time (SC1703)

This CDG appears to be pretty rare. It contains an awesome rendition of Kate Bush's "Wuthering Heights", as well as seven other big hits from the 1980s. I loved "Relax" by Frankie Goes To Hollywood and "Tainted Love" by Soft Cell. This disc includes demonstration vocals.

*****Hits Of Fleetwood Mac - Vol. 1 (SC8785)

This is a great CDG! I bought it for "Sara", but also for "Dreams" and "Rhiannon". I also have the Legends discs and they don't hold a candle to Sound Choice's superior craftmanship. This is a great addition to any karaoke collection! There are no printed lyrics or demonstration vocals.

****Carole King v1 (SC2366)

There are eight Carole King classics on this CDG and eight corresponding demo tracks. Overall, I'm really pleased with this disc, except for the fact that "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" doesn't sound like the version that was on Tapestry. If you like Carole King, this is a great find, plus it includes printed lyrics!

**** Super Pop/Rock Hits Vol. 4 (AIN0105) This is actually an American Idol CDG. American Idol karaoke is made by Sound Choice and, from what I can tell, offers the same quality at a lower price. I bought this disc for Norah Jones' "Sunrise". I don't know the other songs on the disc, so I can't really comment on their quality-- but "Sunrise" is done very well. Demo vocals and printed lyrics are included. Novelty Titles

*****Mama With a Blue Dress On (SC8532)

This is a great disc that is loaded with songs about sex. I got it because I wanted AC/DC's "Big Balls", which is very well represented on this disc. "Darling Nikki" by Prince and the Revolution, "Add It Up" by Violent Femmes, and "Closer" by Nine Inch Nails are also included. South Park fans will no doubt recognize Chef's Chocolate Salty Balls". I will warn that although the dirty lyrics are somewhat censored with symbols, the lyrics sung by backup singers are not. Personally, I like this aspect-- I prefer authentic karaoke renditions-- but I understand that some folks may not. This disc does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

*****Songs To Make Your Mama Blush (SC8700)

Here's another hilarious CDG with funny, dirty songs on it. "Letter To My Penis" by Rodney Carrington is a big hit where I do karaoke on Friday nights, as is "Detachable Penis" by King Missile. If you like 2 Live Crew, you should know that this CDG includes two 2 Live Crew songs! Again, will warn that although the dirty lyrics are somewhat censored with symbols, the lyrics sung by backup singers are not. Personally, I like this aspect-- I prefer authentic karaoke renditions-- but I understand that some folks may not. This disc does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

*****Songs To Make Your Mama Blush! Vol. 2 (SC8927)

This is the hilarious sequel to the original Songs To Make Your Mama Blush CDG. This disc, which doesn't contain lyrics or demonstration vocals, has karaoke versions of Red Peters' "Ballad of a Dog Named Stains", "Pac Man Fever", and "The Best Song In the World". There are fifteen songs to choose from, some of them with parental advisories becaue of the lyrics.

****Irish Songs-Vol. 1 (SC8737)

I bought this disc because I was looking for a good version of "Danny Boy". Truthfully, that's the only song I use on this disc, although the songs are all done well. I wish Sound Choice had included "The Minstrel Boy", but otherwise I think they did a pretty good job with this disc. This disc does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

****Twisted Holiday Hits II and III (SC8780) and (SC8900)

Here are two great CDGs that include hilarious Christmas songs. Some of the songs contain Parental Advisories, but some of them are clean. I got these discs because each of them includes a Red Peters Christmas song. I've noticed, however, that the quality of both of these discs is fantastic. If you like funny Christmas songs, these are a good bet. My only complaint is that on a couple of tracks, background vocals are censored-- but not on all tracks. It seems that someone at Sound Choice decided that cuss words should be censored, then someone else decided they were okay. Neither disc includes printed lyrics of demo tracks.

****Movie Madness Vol. 3 (SC8885)

I bought this disc because it includes "The Scarlet Tide" by Alison Krauss. It also offers good versions of "Sloop John B" by the Beach Boys, "Songbird" by Eva Cassidy, "Danke Schoen" by Wayne Newton, the Italian and English versions of "Time To Say Goodbye" by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman, and "Time Is On My Side" by the Rolling Stones. Each of the sixteen songs on this disc have been featured in a movie. This disc does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

R&B Titles

****Detroit City Soul (SC8984)

I bought this disc for a great version of Stevie Wonder's classic hit, "As". There are also some awesome renditions of other classic soul songs like "Just My Imagination" by The Temptations, "Until You Come Back To Me" by Aretha Franklin, and "Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)" by Marvin Gaye. If you like classic soul, this disc is a must have. There are no printed lyrics or demo tracks.

****R&B Hits-Vol. 4 (SC8754)

I bought this disc because it includes Erykah Badu's live version of "Tyrone". It also includes "Love On A Two Way Street" by Stacy Lattisaw (hadn't heard that one in ages) and Anita Baker's "Angel". "Tyrone" is a great song to do at the end of the night! This disc does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

***1/2 Hits of Stevie Wonder (SC8866)

This CDG offers a fifteen good Stevie Wonder songs, but I have to comment that I was a little disappointed in the quality. I think the songs on this particular disc sound more midi than almost any other I've heard by Sound Choice. Still, though, if you want a pretty good Stevie Wonder collection, this disc is probably worth owning. There are no demonstration vocals or printed lyrics.

Rock Titles

****History of Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young (SC8683R)

Apparently, Sound Choice lost the rights to "Woodstock", which was on the original version of this CDG. That's okay, because "Woodstock" was replaced by a fantastic version of "Carry On", which is a lot more interesting to me, anyway. This CDG has hits from the various incarnations of C,S,N,&Y, as well as some solo hits from the band members. I bought it for "For What It's Worth" by Buffalo Springfield. There are no printed lyrics or demo tracks on this disc.

****Hits of Heart-Vol. 1 (SC2175)

This disc has eight songs done in the style of Heart, along with accompanying demonstration tracks and printed lyrics. I bought this disc for "Dreamboat Annie" and "Straight On", but I was also quite pleased with "Magic Man" and "Barracuda". I'd love to see a volume 2 disc with more Heart hits on it.

****Hits of AC/DC-Vol. 1 (SC2265)

This disc has eight songs done in the style of AC/DC, along with accompanying demonstration tracks and printed lyrics. I bought this disc for "Thunderstruck" and "Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap". This disc also has a great version of "Hells Bells"-- but it lacks "Highway to Hell"! Definitely a good disc for AC/DC fans who are looking for quality over quantity.

*****Hits of Led Zeppelin -Vol. 1 and Vol.2 (SC8437) (SC8674)

Each of these two Led Zeppelin discs contain outstanding and accurate renditions of 15 of Led Zeppelin's best songs. I really enjoy doing "Whole Lotta Love", "Black Dog", and "All My Love". "Whole Lotta Love" is a crowd pleaser and the Sound Choice version, when compared to versions done by other labels, is exemplary. "All My Love" is a great song, but it sounds a little synthesized. Neither of these CDGs come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

*****Hits of Queen- Vol. 1 (SC8772)

This disc is amazing. There are 15 great Queen songs included and I didn't find a single weak one in the lot. I did "Bohemian Rhapsody" at my favorite karaoke spot and it went very well. The only thing I didn't like about this disc is that the words scroll through the entire "operatic" part of "Bohemian Rhapsody" which makes it much harder to sing. I just let the backup singers do the really hard parts and rejoin them later. There are no printed lyrics or demonstration tracks included.

****Hits of Queensryche vs. Rush (SC8691)

This disc is equal parts Rush and equal parts Queensryche. I bought it for the Rush songs, since I don't know most Queensyche songs except "Silent Lucidity". My husband really loves Rush and he was impressed by how well these songs were done. Guide vocals and printed lyrics are not included.

****Headbanger's Hits (SC8346)

I bought this CDG for Heart's "Dog and Butterfly", but it mostly consists of power ballads by heavy metal bands from the late 1980s and early 1990s. Listening to the songs on this disc are really a blast from the past for me, even though I was never really into heavy metal. I think "Dog and Butterfly" is kind of a weird choice for a Headbanger's disc, but it's well done on this CDG. Guide vocals and printed lyrics are not included.

*****Hits of Van Morrison- Vol. 1 (SC8689)

If you love Van Morrison, this CDG is a must! It contains 15 of Van Morrison's and Them's best songs. The only song that is glaringly absent is "Brown Eyed Girl"-- but I imagine they left it off because it's on other Sound Choice discs. This disc does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

*****Hits of Creedence Clearwater Revival Vol. 1- (SC8489)

This disc is a must for any rock fan. It includes great versions of CCR's biggest hits like "Lodi", "Down On The Corner", "Lookin' Out My Back Door", and "Run Through The Jungle". This disc does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

***1/2 Southern Fried Rock-Vol. 1 (SC8146)

If you love southern rock, this is a great disc to own. It boasts 15 great songs including the requisite southern rock anthems "Sweet Home Alabama", "Free Bird", and "Ramblin' Man", although I bought it for "Whipping Post". This is a great disc for anyone who loves 38 Special, too! I am going to downgrade it somewhat, however, because Sound Choice cut off the ending of "Free Bird"... that's a travesty! This disc does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks... but the songs are such classics that you probably know them by heart anyway!

****The Doobie Brothers- Vol. 1 (SC2286)

This is a nice CDG with 8 classic Doobie Brothers songs and demonstration tracks. I would have liked to have gotten more songs, but I don't think Sound Choice makes a Doobies spotlight yet!

Standards and Broadway

***Broadway Classics- Vol. 6 (SC2297)

I like the version of "On My Own" from Les Miserables included on this CDG, but I'm not sure why they included "America" from West Side Story. The arrangement on this disc requires three women to sing it and they have to be pretty skillful to do it right. All of the songs on this disc are for women, too. Demo tracks are included.

****Yesterday's Sentiments-Vol. 1 (SC8288)

I got this disc for "Cry Me A River" by Julie London, but this CDG contains a total of 15 "oldies but goodies", including a fine version of "Someone To Watch Over Me" by Frank Sinatra. I don't use a lot of songs on this CDG, but I imagine it would really please an older crowd. This disc does not come with printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

Inspirational Titles

***1/2 Testament of Life Vol.1 (PD9089)

This was one of the first CDGs I ever purchased. I bought it because it includes several tracks from the Nashville Prince of Egypt soundtrack. I like singing Wynonna's "Freedom" and Alison Krauss's "I Give To You His Heart", as well as Faith Hill's version of "Somewhere Down the Road". This disc also includes Alison Krauss's "Down To The River To Pray", but it's not one of my favorite versions. The background singers are a little too loud and tend to drown me out. Also, the words on "I Give To You His Heart" are not completely accurate-- that's why I now use the the Sound Choice version of that song. This disc also has a few songs for men, including "Butterfly Kisses" by the Stanley Brothers. It comes with printed lyrics, but there are no demonstration tracks.

***A Walk To Remember (PD1493)

This disc contains songs in the movie A Walk To Remember. I bought this disc for Mandy Moore's song "Only Hope". Unfortunately, the music publisher won't allow the lyrics to be shown on screen. Luckily, the CDG comes with printed lyrics and demonstration vocals. The rendition of the song is very good, but it chaps my ass that the lyrics aren't allowed to be shown. The rest of the songs are well done.

****The Apostle Movie (PD3022)

I purchased this disc because it includes Lyle Lovett's "Soldier In The Army Of The Lord". The first night I sang it at the club in early April 2005, the karaoke jock liked it so much that she borrowed the CDG from me. I finally got it back in mid June! This disc also includes a great version of Johnny Cash's "In The Garden". It comes with printed lyrics and guide vocals.

Chartbusters Karaoke

Chartbuster CDGs usually offer great versions of hit songs. Although they recently raised the price of their discs by about $3 a piece, I still think they're generally a very good buy for what you get. Sometimes I will choose Chartbuster over Sound Choice simply because I know that most of the time, the CDG will offer good quality at a lower price. What's more, Chartbuster often includes songs that Sound Choice doesn't.

Country Titles

****Lorrie Morgan (CBK90023)

This is a pretty good disc. It includes good versions of "Dear Me", "Five Minutes", "He Talks To Me", and "Something In Red". Neither printed lyrics nor guide vocals come with this disc, but it does include 15 good songs.

****Tammy Wynette (CBK90072)

I got this CDG for Christmas in 2004 and I picked it out mainly because it includes "Till I Get It Right". I've never actually heard Wynette's version of this song; I've only heard the Trisha Yearwood's, but I'm still able to do it without a problem. Other notable songs include: "Stand By Your Man" (of course), "D.I.V.O.R.C.E", "Till I Can Make It On My Own", and "Kids Say The Darndest Things". This disc does not come with printed lyrics or guide vocals.

***1/2 The Judds (CBK90010)

I like the songs on this disc, but I seem to remember that the key is changed on at least one track. I pretty much hate it when karaoke manufacturers alter the key in order to make a song more singable. Anyway, this disc includes "Grandpa", "Girls Night Out", "Love Is Alive", and "Love Can Build A Bridge". I like the song selection; I don't like the fact that some of the songs are done in different keys. This disc doesn't come with printed lyrics or guide vocals.

****Alison Krauss (CBK90158)

This is another one of the first discs in my collection. Unfortunately, the first disc I got came to me damaged and I ended up replacing it. Anyway, this CDG includes a pretty good selection of Alison Krauss's hits. In fact, I haven't yet found a more comprehensive Alison Krauss CDG. The music is done very well. My only complaint about this disc is that some of the words are not accurate. This disc includes "Baby, Now That I've Found You", "Every Time You Say Goodbye", "Teardrops Will Kiss The Morning Dew", and "New Favorite", among many other great songs. It does not come with printed lyrics or guide vocals.

****Suzy Bogguss Vol. 1(CBK90038)

I bought this disc for Suzy Bogguss's version of the old Judy Collins' hit, "Someday Soon". This disc has a good version of "Someday Soon", as well as "Aces", "Hey Cinderella", and "Lovin' A Hurricane". This disc does not come with printed lyrics or guide vocals.

****Dolly Parton Vol. 3(CBK90255)

This is a great CDG for some of Dolly Parton's newer songs, like "Hello God", "I'm Gone", and "Eagle When She Flies". All of the songs are done very well. There are no printed lyrics or demo vocals.

******Country Time Line 1991- Vol. 2 (CBK80153)

This is a fantastic CDG! It includes a lot of great songs from 1991, like "Here's A Quarter (Call Someone Who Cares)" by Travis Tritt, "Men" by Forrester Sisters, "Don't Rock The Jukebox" by Alan Jackson, and "Fancy" by Reba McEntire. The songs are very well done and from what I can tell, the lyrics are accurate. This disc does not come with printed lyrics or guide vocals.

*****Country Time Line 1981 (CBK80116)

Once again, Chartbuster has come up with a great hits CDG, this time with country songs that were popular in 1981. This disc includes "9 to 5" and "But You Know I Love You" by Dolly Parton, "Tight Fittin' Jeans" by Conway Twitty, "I Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool" by Barbara Mandrell, and "I Think I'll Just Stay Here and Drink" by Merle Haggard. Each of the 15 tracks is excellent. There are no printed lyrics or guide vocals.

****Chartbuster Hot Country Hits Vol. 172 (CBK60172)

I got this CDG for $2.50 and chose to buy it because it includes Jessica Andrews' song, "I Will Be There For You". I don't know any of the other songs on this disc, but Chartbuster did a good job with the one for which I bought this disc. This disc is probably discontinued, so it may be hard to find. It doesn't come with printed lyrics or guide vocals.

****Chartbuster Hot Country Hits Vol. 155 (CBK60155)

I also got this disc for $2.50 and bought it mainly for Trisha Yearwood's "Better Your Heart Than Mine". It only includes songs by Trisha Yearwood, Patty Loveless, and Suzy Bogguss. The songs are well done and the lyrics are accurate. This disc has also probably been discontinued. It doesn't come with printed lyrics or guide vocals.

****Country Hits (CBK60250)

This disc has some great old country songs by Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Tammy Wynette, and David Allan Coe. It's a great addition to any collection that needs a few country classics. There are no printed lyrics or demo vocals included.

****September 2003- Country Hits (CBK60313)

I got this CDG for Rhonda Vincent's "You Can't Take It With You When You Go". I have no complaints about this CDG at all. It does not come with printed lyrics or guide vocals.

****June 2005- Country Hits (CBK60339)

I bought this disc ONLY because it was on sale, but it's turned out to be a great buy. Trisha Yearwood's "Georgia Rain" is well represented, as is "Nobody Ever Died of A Broken Heart" by Cowboy Crush and "Something More" by Sugarland. There are no printed lyrics or demonstration vocals provided.

****July 2005- Country Hits (60340)

I bought this disc for Rhonda Vincent's "I've Forgotten You", which is done very well on this disc. It also includes a fine rendition of Brad Paisley's "Alcohol". There are no printed lyrics or demonstration vocals provided.

****December 2005 - Country Hits Vol. 1 (CBK60345)

I bought this CDG for Alison Krauss's "Goodbye Is All We Have", which is done pretty well on this disc. Other songs include Kenny Chesney's "Who You'd Be Today" and "My Old Friend" by Tim McGraw. There are no demonstration vocals or printed lyrics included with this disc.

****February 2006- Country Hits (CBK60348)

This CDG has a great version of "My Poor Old Heart" by Alison Krauss and Union Station. That's pretty much the only reason I bought it. I'm very pleased with the quality, though. There are no printed lyrics or demonstration tracks.

*****Country Christmas- Vol. 8 (CBK20468)

This is a nifty disc for Christmas music with a country flair. I bought this disc for three of the six songs that are included on it: Alison Krauss's "Only You Can Bring Me Cheer", Reba McEntire's "'Til The Season Comes 'Round Again", and Amy Grant's "Christmas To Remember". This disc includes guide vocals.

Chartbusters Karaoke Rock Titles

*****Bonnie Raitt- Vol.2 (CB40251)

This is another short Chartbuster disc, but it includes six very well done Bonnie Raitt gems. I bought it for "You" and "Steal Your Heart Away", two songs that I haven't seen on many other Bonnie Raitt CDGs. This disc includes guide vocals.

*** 1/2 The Carpenters- Hits of the 1970s (CB9194)

Yes, I know, the Carpenters barely qualify as "rock" music. I bought this disc a few months ago. Sadly, it cracked, and I ended up throwing it away. It included some good Carpenters songs, but I probably won't bother repurchasing it because a number of them were done in the wrong key! I hate that! This disc doesn't include guide vocals or printed lyrics.

I just had a custom CDG made by Sound Choice and I'm a very satisfied customer. It's great to have 15 songs on one disc that I can actually sing. Need custom made CDGs from the Sound Choice catalog? Click the banner!