Service Industry Minnesotan tourist on a bachelorette party - so take it with a grain of salt…. BUT, our group was 100% going here BECAUSE of Karaoke. Us 12 ladies were so pumped. Then we arrived. 1. Door staff were MISERABLE, hated their jobs. We asked how do we sign up and after ignoring us the first few times - he finally rudely gestured to the stage where the DJ was. Lots of karaoke places do things differently, some you sign up with the DJ, sometimes there’s a separate person signing people up - it was just an honest question, sir. That yes - you probably hear 85 times a night but you chose this service life. 2. When we finally did get shown, not told, how to sign up - my jaw literally hit the floor. YOU HAVE TO PAY $5 to sing. YOU have to pay, to entertain this bar’s guests. Not the other way, where they pay for their own entertainment of their guests. Like, you’re paying the DJ to be there to play songs for the guests who are paying to sing those songs. It was shocking to our group, and only a few of us (myself included) ended up paying to sing.The DJ and his assistant were also extremely rude and much like the door staff, let their vibe be known that they would rather be ANYWHERE else. 3. Obviously, if you’re going to sing - you need a little liquid courage. So I pony up to the bar, the bartender must’ve sensed I was service industry - she immediately came over, skipping other guests who had been waiting - hustle recognizes hustle. She was the first friendly face at the establishment. I ordered a gin and tonic and vodka soda. She goes, $26 while handing me 2 drinks, in puny 10oz cups. I was like girl, I know you just work here and you don’t make the prices and 98% of the people you’ll serve do not know better but I am not the one. I know what your rail vodka and gin bottles cost, I know your pour. I get the liquor tax. But $13 a drink/literally bought the bottle. I’m not a mathematician but that’s like 1000% return on investment. So, I’m literally paying to entertain their guests and paying for their liquor inventory with a single drink purchase. Obviously, kudos to whomever is the business manager - it’s genius but when you have grumpy staff, no AC and really nothing to offer… it’s unfortunate. Do better for the industry. But the location is prime and drunk people like to sing so they’ll always have the rent paid. I was just hoping for a better Nashville karaoke experience. We left after the girls who did pay to sing, sang. There was no other reason to be there unless I wanted to pay for my own encore. Bummer.

Beware: If you have a real ID, military ID too, are 23 years old and with 10 other friends also graduating from a Vanderbilt master program, your party STILL may be “too close” to 21 for Ms Kelli to serve you. Ms. Kelli herself didn’t want to serve us because we were “too close” to 21, their ID scanner was broken (despite the fact that someone in the party had a military ID as well), and she said she had an early morning the next day and didn’t want to “deal” with us because they’ve had problems with underage customers and we were just too close. I’ve been once before too, and both times they randomly check IDs when you’re in the bar—not at the door. If they are so concerned with serving 23 year olds, you’d think that they’d have a tight watch on who’s coming into the bar in the first place. This was also on a Tuesday night when the place was dead, and we just stopped in for a few drinks and karaoke. I know it sounds like I’m making this up, but honestly I couldn’t if I tried. After that encounter, we were happy to leave and patronize another bar instead. Ms. Kelli herself did a great job of ostracizing locals. Alan Jackson’s down the street has fabulous karaoke too with friendly staff. I’ll never give Ms. Kelli’s one dollar of my money, and you shouldn’t either.

Disappointing. Out of towner looking forward to karaoke in Music City. You pay $5 per song which, ok, the KJ is running a business, but then I would expect a certain level of professionalism. However, the sound was bad and the KJ did not seem particularly attentive -- the mics were not live at the beginning of some songs, I never observed him coach those not holding the mic close enough to hold it closer nor lower the sound on those yelling into the mic. Mics were not wireless and even then, the doorman stopped me from walking as far as the cord would allow. (Why?). Also, the KJ intimated to me that if I paid extra, I could skip ahead in line. I run Karaoke at a bar myself, at no charge to the singers, and I know it can be run much better. Finally, they allow smoking in the back of the bar , which makes it up to the front of the bar where the singing happens. On the plus side, the bartenders were attentive and quick.

Tuesday 7/25/2023 is when I came in. Whoever that bouncer was just grabbed my water bottle out of my hand and threw it away without saying anything to me about it. I have no issue throwing it out if I need to, but it is disrespectful to grab something out of someone’s hand and throw it away without giving an explanation of any kind. For all he knew, I may have wanted to step outside and finish that bottle of water before coming in. I don’t care what the place or environment is, you don’t disrespect someone like that. Will he care? Probably not. He has that disposition about him. But, I hope management cares and says something. Otherwise, whatever. What comes around goes around in time. To be fair, the bartender was great and the music was fun. If it was not for that incident at the door, I would have given 5 stars.

The bar had a good atmosphere and the dj had fun songs playing between performances. The bar allows for smoking inside, which as a Canadian I have never experienced before. After a few minutes I could feel my throat getting irritated. Not helpful for singing. This is probably more common in the area than I realized, but no other bars I visited had smoking. Smoking maybe a bonus for some guests, but wasn't for me. When I ordered a drink I pointed out to the bartender that there were several long hairs in the lemon bowl. She simply pulled the hairs out and continued on serving, did not change out the contaminated lemons. I watched those lemons go into people's drinks. Also there was $5 margaritas that night, and they tasted awful! Had a strange chemically after taste. Other drinks were reasonably priced.

Left my credit card there last night. Went back to get it this morning. Bar was closed, but the owner had left her cell phone number on the bar's answering machine. We called it, she actually answered (this definitely would not have happened back home!) then called someone who was inside cleaning the bar to get them to bring my card out. Super nice lady. Unlike the other bars around downtown that were filled with pretentious hipsters and overdressed tourists , this place was spacious, well air conditioned, friendly, inexpensive, and full of laid back folks and friendly bartenders clearly from another time. Music was a very diverse selection too. Not 100% country. It's worth heading down the alley for this place.

We went with a group of friends from work. We were having a great time. Right before we left, the DJ did not allow one of my fellow co-workers to sing. He said he shouldn’t be there, then proceeded to offend him and kick him out calling him every single racial slur you can imagine. It was beyond offensive and unnecessary- Earlier that night, I had realized I was that I was the only Latina there (and two other co-workers)… not single black person, Asian, Indian…. This isn’t a safe place. It is racist and downright gross. I am never coming back- you shouldn’t waste your time or money here, it is not safe for women or people of color.

great crowd great service. awesome talent. I am moving to the area from northeastern Ohio. this is my first night in the area and I figured I would spend it in Nashville. Amazing bar and karaoke. there is a beautiful young lady that sang Tennessee whiskey and if she only knew what that song means to me she would have more meaning for that song. she did an amazing job and I am so proud to have heard it on my first night in Nashville. If anybody could guide her to my profile or tell me who she is so that I might tell her thank you for helping me on my journey of finding out who I really am, I would greatly appreciate it

Cannot believe that an employee, Yvonne, followed a patron into the bathroom and harassed them because they didn’t look like they belonged in there. First of all, said employee announced she wasn’t working but that she was an employee. Yvonne then proceeded to tell the patron that she was in the wrong restroom and should be in the mens room. The patron was a young woman who had shorter hair and dressed a little more masculine. Yvonne intentionally went out of her way to make the young woman uncomfortable and humiliated her in front of everyone in the restroom.

Collin (the really hot bar back) is the most amazing human being you could ever meet! He makes you feel right at home and would do anything for the guests at this establishment. The prices are amazing and the bartenders are the best you could ever ask for every employee here would go out of their way to take care of the people they meet and everyone around them. I believe anyone could go to Ms Kellis and have an amazing time. Great downtown Nashville appeal without the craziness of broadway. I absolutely recommend Ms. Kelli’s to everyone I meet!

Visited last Friday night. Our group of 6 had a great time until the bartender with the long straight blonde hair charged us $56 for 3 drinks. When I laughed at her she tried to justify it. Turns out the prices vary by bartender and customer, we realized we had all been charged different prices for the same drinks, so be careful, especially if they think you are drunk. We left and had a lot of fun at another karaoke bar around the corner. There are plenty of other fun places to spend your money in Nashville, I wouldn't waste my time here.

This place reminds me of a dive bar from the country. You can see every imaginable scenario here. You have women on the floor spinning in circles, great large mastiffs, low rider pants from a man with stuffed cheeks like a chipmunk, a naked punk grunge rock woman, folks spinning from the ceiling and more. Quite the spectacle. Many interesting creatures at this karaoke bar! Lastly, it reminds me of a classic episode from The Muppets!
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 1
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 1

So first off , this was my very first time ever to nashville ! And I will definitely be back to ms.kellis EVERY SINGLE TIME I'm in town . I am not even a drinker .. but the atmosphere, the vibes , THE FUN . It's all worth it . We only was going to walk down the alley to see everything but the singing pulled me in and we didn't go anywhere else !!! We had the best bartender ever last night I'm so happy I got to meet such an awesome person , thank you Hayley !!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

They replied to my previous review and were extremely rude. I stated that I didn’t like how you have to pay to sing now(you did not have to before). They told me the DJ works for tips and asked if I would “work for free”. Why don’t they pay the DJ who is bringing people in to the bar to pay for overpriced drinks instead of passing that responsibility on to the customer? Seems like a predatory business practice and I won’t be returning. Disappointed since it used to be such a cool spot.

Super fun little hole in the wall in Printer’s Alley. Dark and smoky little dive, but it makes for a big amount of fun. They’re open later than most places and the staff is always really friendly... and the drink prices are totally reasonable - which isn’t common down in the Broadway area. Love this place for a night out with friends and would definitely recommend it to anyone wanting to get out, but not necessarily have to deal with all the tourists. Love this place!

The low reviews are accurate. Not recommended. They have some AC instead of sweat. There is several bar tenders. The sound system is good but too loud on purpose. The DJ only likes loud rock upbeat songs. So loud you don't know what people are singing with a beat of the ghetto. I wanted to sing two songs. They never said my name. But they like themselves. This place makes a lot of money but it is not honest. They go after your money like Vegas. That is all they want.

My wife and I were here in Nashville for our honeymoon. I love karaoke and had wanted to sing. Long story short we had waited for over two hours and I never got called. All the meanwhile we watched people get called up at least two or three times in a row. I get that I'm not a female. I get that I'm a little bit older than your target audience. I did enjoy the karaoke however I just wanted to get up and sing and I felt that I kept getting bumped for whatever reason

Mark my words, in 30 years I will buy this place out. The prices are ridiculous. Property taxes etc. is not an excuse. I ordered two red bombs for $22. I’m not broke, but bottom shelf alcohol for $22 are you kidding me? This place is not any better than black and gold in Columbia, Mo. Total waste of an investment in Nashville. A complete highway robbery. I’ll have better deals for those who are visiting, that’s businesses, if not go right down the road.

Staff at the door was super friendly but we weren't 100% impressed. The place reeked of smoke, so if this bothers you, it's not the place for you. It's a karaoke bar... We got up to sing karaoke, but when we can back, all our drinks had bed cleared at the table we were at and were forced to buy new ones. What a rip off! Seemed like a scam to get you to spend more money. It was fun as a one-time spot but I don't think I'd frequent here regularly.

The wait staff was great. Unfortunately the person running karaoke shows his friends and his girlfriend over the rest of us. They sang two times a piece before I asked him what was going on. He told me they had signed up and I was three people away from singing. I was there 2 hours and still didn't sing. Again the wait staff was great but the karaoke host that night was horrible and picked his friends and his girlfriend over everyone else.

I’ve been coming to Kelli’s for 3 years. Literally my favorite bar. I went in tonight with my Asian friend, and he wasn’t let in. I asked the new bouncer (I haven’t once seen him before) why my friend wasn’t let in, and he said “are you accusing me of being racist? Why don’t you leave too, for annoying me”. I’m disgusted. Won’t be going back anytime soon. Management needs to hire better bouncers.

Miserably hot! Didn't even want an alcoholic beverage it was so hot. Poor selection of songs. Trendy crowd and was hopeful it was going to be better. Few karaoke bars in downtown Nashville. Disappointed and left after about 45 minutes, maybe 5 songs. Girls with us wanted to sing, but did not see anything good in the menu. Only knew 1 of the songs others sung while waiting.

Went in here for an impromptu girls night after work Monday and had a blast. First, the security guard is soooo good looking. Second, the bartenders, Haley and Tara are not only beautiful but the sweetest bartenders in Nashville. Third, the dj and the barback can sing and finally they have great drink specials. I suggest the margaritas. Can't wait to go back!

Saw my charge for the drinks on my bank account and that was fine since it equaled what was on the screen when I paid and tipped (didn’t open a tab), but there was also a separate extra $5 charge from a Ms. Kelli’s with a location in Antioch? I did not request a song so not sure what the $5 was for. I called to ask them about it but never got a call back.

We were returning from WWE Summer Slam and all wearing wrestling tank tops for the occasion. First two friends get IDs checked and walk in with no problem. Third friend is black and Security stops him saying you need to have sleeves. Our friend says you just let my friends in, pointing, they are right there. No dice. Obviously didn't stay after that.

Ms Kellis has been my local bar for several years now. The staff and DJ’s are all terrific people and create a fun and welcoming environment. TIP the DJs ! They do a great job lining up songs while keeping the bar vibes UP. This isn’t your typicL Karaoke bar, the dancefloor is always moving and the crowd is generally very engaged and friendly. Go.

Nice little spot, but as a former KJ...$5 to just sing one song with a 2 hour wait regardless of whether or not you tip is insane. I was really exciting about coming here, and then really disappointed when I showed up. My vote: waste of time and money. There are a lot of places you can go to sing karaoke in the area without paying money.

Best karaoke bar in Nashville by far. They give everyone an equal chance to sing, instead of just letting their friends on stage like some others. Super fun atmosphere, and the DJs keep things upbeat and fun. Come for the Jell-O shots and stay for the excellent music and DJs, particularly JC and Catt. Great place to have fun in Nashville

Fun atmosphere. You can play pool with your friends and watch the karoke happen. The workers are so nice, which is impressive considering how tough their job is. I look forward to returning even more now that I've been informed that all smoking inside will stop come spring. It's definitely a new favorite spot …

Visited Ms. Kelli's recently and had a great time doing karaoke. Jenna the KJ was awesome and kept the crowd going. She is also an amazing singer. If you're in Nashville you MUST stop by this place and sing some karaoke. Jenna will take good care of you. Appreciate the hospitality and can't wait to go back.

We are visiting from Virginia Beach and absolutely LOVE our KJ, Jessie! His equipment was Top Notch! I have been singing 15 years and have been all over the country, his sound system is in the top 3 of over 100 places I have been! His knowledge of sound and mixing made the difference WHAT A PLEASURE!

This place deserves 5 stars. Best karaoke in Nashville. But the private security bouncer on 4/23 with the beard assaulted multiple women unprovoked by pushing them into the speakers and putting one woman in a chokehold. Will not return until he is permanently fired. He is a danger to the public.

AVOID AVOID AVOID!!! A terrible experience. Made us feel very uncomfortable and the bar staff were extremely rude even after tips. There were people taking drugs and smoking down the back also. I'd never step foot inside this place again.
Food: 1
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 1

I had a terrible experience at Ms. Kellis. Was completely disrespected by the Karaoke contractor team and staff. Will be filing a formal complaint. People shouldn’t work in the service industry in Nashville if they hate their lives, jobs, and will make everyone miserable.
Service: 1

Went last night for a friend's birthday and I have to say it was one of the best experiences I have had at any bar in Nashville. Not overly crowded and the bartender was extremely friendly. Plus the dj kept the party going all night. Will definitely be coming back.

Holly serving our drinks 1 pbr. 2 shot of Jose. 2 long Island. $ 55. $ 5 per song. Great crowd.. smoking 8n the back. We were celebrating 27 years of marriage. Met Reggie " the Cowboy" army veteran. Enjoyed our conversation. God bless. Thanks for all you do.

Ms Kelli is the best. Her bar is phenomenal. It’s nothing but a good time, good people and such great priced drink. I would 100% recommend this bar to anyone visiting Nashville!!! Also, the bouncer is such a good entrance. We felt super safe and had a blast

If you're looking for a little dive spot, this bar is for you. I find the 5$ per song fee to be tacky. Can't the bar pay the host? I've never paid to sing ever before at Karaoke. This, though, may just be a nashville thing. None the less we had a good time.

Just enough hole in the wall, without being gross! My sister and I came in late on a Sunday and had so much fun. We don't sing, but we people watch and this place had great people watching. Fun time, great dj. Bartenders were fun and engaging also!

I don't normally do karaoke but this place was fun! Easy to find, sticky floor. Felt safe with the security there which is always a plus when you are female. Tvs are everywhere so you can sing along if you don't know the songs!

Requested a song a paid the money. Never called us up. Went up and asked how close to singing we were, she told us 3 more people. 8 people sang after. Friends of the Dj sang lots of times while we were waiting. Ended up leaving

I love coming here. Great drinks and AMAZING bartenders. Definitely warning you tho to stay AWAY from the Dj. He is a super creep and will make u feel super uncomfortable. Probably be awhile I come back til he’s gone :/

Ms. Kelli’s was recommended by a local and it was so fun! Refreshing change of pace from Broadway, and the karaoke was very entertaining. Drinks are more affordable and a couple dollars cheaper than Broadway!

Great local dive bar away from the crowds on Broadway. They have karaoke and if you go to the back you can smoke. Perfect place to go if you want a more local flavor and to avoid the chaos of Broadway.

Good spot where we locals hangout. Cat Daddy is the DJ. Fun Karaoke bar with dance floor. Cheap beer, jello shots, and pool tables. Also, located in the infamous Printer's Alley district. Good times.

It was my first time visiting Ms.Kelli's Karaoke Bar and I LOVED it. My friends showed me a good time and my blue Hawaiian drink was amazing!! I loved getting to just let loose and have fun!

Love this place. The staff make you feel like you are part of a family. The Monday night bartenders are friendly, and make killer drinks. The dj knows what to play to get the place going

Worst bar in Nashville. Karaoke DJ allows women before men regardless of place in line and bartenders charge extra for people they don’t like. Do not go here. You are wasting your time.

Off the Boadway path, which was nice. Drinks were a little cheaper. Jello shots were a bonus. We enjoyed the atmosphere. Only downfall is that it cost $5 per song to sing karaoke.

I have karaoke’d around the globe…. No one dj’s like Jesse. I did separate ways by journey and he put the reverb on it, was so awesome! Brought my colleagues here so glad I did!

The most fun place in Nashville. If you like singing, dancing, and putting your hands up like you just do t care than go to Ms Kelli’s m. The DJ is an absolute rockstar also

Great environment for tourists and us locals.... Our bartender Krystal was phenomenal. Def will go back
Price per person
$1–10
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Tourist attraction. Complete waste of time for anyone who is interested in actually singing karaoke. Go elsewhere.
Food: 1
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 1

Extremely unprofessional establishment! They will prey on solo guests, especially men, late at night. Beware.
Food: 1
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 1

Absolutely fantastic. DJ was awesome, Grrrrrrreat personality. We were there 11/8/20 Ask him about Broken Wing...lol and DaBears #harleybear69 from Louisville KY

Had an awesome time here. The bartenders were friendly the prices were great music and atmosphere was fun!! Will definitely be back and tell others :-)

Perfect karaoke bar. If you are looking for a place to drink and sing in a fun, causal atmosphere, this is it. Drinks cost what you would expect.

Pay to sing karaoke with an intense regular crowd. Be prepared to sing local favorites, which are mostly rock/metal.
Atmosphere: 3

It’s $5/song? Lame. Service was fine, but charging to sing, lame
Food: 1
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4

Had such a great time here :) karaoke audience rocks...no matter your skill... or not