[Garry A. Leslie]

Hello Glen,
I know you were addressing your remarks to Sam, but as I also mentioned
charitable functions, I'm drawn in.
I only suggest doing the odd engagement, certainly not with the hope of getting a paying gig from it, and definitely not as a full time non-paying job.
You should, without doubt, ask what you think you're worth, but I think the general concensus is that if you really want to run a karaoke you have to take the going rate. Try by all means to raise the ante but unless you are prepared to turn your back on it as a matter of principle you will have to accept.
As already pointed out there are plenty of lowballers waiting and most bar owners know absolutely nothing about the real costs and care even less, so unless you increase their take you're whistling down the wind.
Regards from across the pond.
Garry