Mix Business and Belting: Monthly Karaoke Theme Nights for Networking at The Howlin’ Wolf

Laura Kuhn
Aug 15, 2025
3 min read

Networking events don’t have to be awkward small talk over lukewarm coffee in a hotel ballroom. In New Orleans, we know how to make connections fun—and at The Howlin’ Wolf, we’re putting a new spin on networking with monthly karaoke theme nights that get people laughing, singing, and forming real relationships.

Why Karaoke and Networking are a Perfect Match

The best connections happen when people let their guard down, and nothing breaks the ice faster than singing your heart out in front of a room full of new friends (and potential business contacts).

Shared experience = instant bond. Whether you’re dueting on “Islands in the Stream” or cheering for a colleague’s epic performance, you’ll remember the night—and the people—long after the final chorus.
It’s interactive. Networking works best when there’s an activity to focus on. Karaoke gives you a built-in conversation starter that’s way more fun than “So, what do you do?”
It levels the playing field. In the karaoke spotlight, titles and job descriptions disappear. It’s just you, the mic, and the music.

How a Monthly Theme Night Works

Pick a theme that resonates with your industry or group—80s power ballads, Mardi Gras classics, 90s throwbacks, New Orleans funk—and run with it. Encourage costumes, props, and song choices that fit the vibe.

Example monthly themes:

Techies Take the Stage: Silicon Valley meets Studio 54.
Lawyers, Lyrics & Libations: Closing arguments in the form of a Prince medley.
Mardi Gras Mics: Beads, brass, and bold song choices.
80’s Night: Big hair, neon tights, and synth-pop hits from Madonna to Journey.
Love Song Anthems: From heartfelt ballads to over-the-top romantic showstoppers.
Broadway Showtunes: Belt out your inner diva with classics from Chicago, Hamilton, and Les Misérables.
Rockin’ Country Music: Bring your boots and belt buckles for everything from Garth Brooks to Kacey Musgraves.

Why The Howlin’ Wolf is the Ultimate Networking Venue

Not only do you get a pro sound system, stage lighting, and a full bar, but you’re also in one of New Orleans’ most iconic music venues. After the karaoke wraps, your guests can stick around to catch a live show, keeping the energy going and the conversations flowing.

Plus, with Howlin’ Wolf’s spacious layout and The Den for more intimate gatherings, you can tailor the event size and format to your needs.

Benefits of a Recurring Monthly Event

Familiarity builds community. Attendees start to look forward to seeing each other each month.
It becomes a “must-attend” tradition. Word spreads, and your group becomes the hot ticket in your industry.
Better networking over time. The more relaxed and familiar people get, the more meaningful the connections.

Bottom line: Business deals might be made over coffee, but relationships are built when you’ve just nailed a duet together. Book The Howlin’ Wolf for your monthly karaoke networking night and watch your professional circle grow—one chorus at a time.

🎤 Top 5 Karaoke Crowd-Pleasers

for New Orleans Nights

“Proud Mary” – Tina Turner / Creedence Clearwater Revival
Nothing gets the crowd clapping faster than the slow-build to that high-energy second half.
“I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor
A disco anthem that’s all about sass, drama, and full-volume sing-alongs.
“When the Saints Go Marching In” – Traditional / Louis Armstrong
Give it the local flair—turn it into a mini second line and get everyone dancing.
“Sweet Caroline” – Neil Diamond
You don’t just sing it—you yell “So good! So good! So good!” with the whole room.
“Hey Pocky A-Way” – The Meters
Pure New Orleans funk energy that makes even the shyest guest get up and groove.