Definition of the word sing along

The phrase "sing along" originated in the 1920s and 1930s when radio broadcasting became a popular form of entertainment. During these early days of radio, people would often gather around their sets to listen to music, news, and dramas. Some shows also featured sing-along segments, inviting listeners to participate by singing along with the on-air performers. The term "sing along" suited this new activity perfectly, combining the elements of singing and following along with the lyrical prompts provided by the singer or band. This participatory approach to listening to music became popular not just on the radio but also in live settings, such as communal sing-alongs at church or campfires. As radio technology evolved and record players became more common, the practice of sing-alongs continued to grow. In the ensuing decades, karaoke, a Japanese invention, introduced another way to sing along while hearing the original recording as accompaniment. Today, "sing along" is a well-established term used in various contexts, from watching musicals, concerts, or sporting events to enjoying sing-along-friendly music in social settings or while commuting. It's essentially a generic term for a fun-filled activity that has spanned generations and continents, solidifying its place in the collective cultural lexicon.