A Change of Direction for the KIAA

Until further notice we will no longer be accepting memberships in the Karaoke Industry Alliance of America (KIAA).  For the immediate future the main focus of the KIAA is, by necessity, going to be geared towards anti-piracy efforts.

When the KIAA was first formed in 2008, the primary goal was to create an organization to bring together all businesses that benefit from karaoke. Our expectations were that manufacturers, distributors, resellers, venues, KJs and even karaoke enthusiasts would have a trade association that would promote the interests of all members. We wanted to build an organization working together to improve the industry, reduce piracy and increase opportunities at every level.

Unfortunately, the impact of piracy on this industry has been far reaching and the rampant theft has been extremely difficult to restrain. Unless we get a handle on these problems there might not be a legal industry in a few more years. Education alone has not worked, so the KIAA must evolve from its original ideals.

The KIAA will still do its best to keep education as a goal but to be able to ensure the survival of a legitimate industry, various karaoke manufacturers have begun suing karaoke operators and venues who profit from stolen music. The manufacturers are assisted by a core group of KJs who are helping with education and vigilance in their local markets.

Once the industry begins to move beyond the current level of piracy, where manufacturers and legitimate resellers and hosts are struggling for survival, we hope that the original ideals of the organization can be realized. Eventually we hope the KIAA will move back toward improving the overall quality of karaoke professionals through educational seminars, training materials, shared tips and memberships. Until that time, however, the KIAA will be doing everything it can to reduce the piracy, intellectual property theft and unfair competition that is threatening to completely destroy the legitimate industry.

If you would like to help in your area, please report suspected piracy or if you would like to volunteer in other ways, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .