Overview

OpenKJ combines desktop karaoke hosting with tools that support requests and library upkeep. The core program is licensed under GPL version 3 and is built and tested for Linux, macOS, and Windows. Songbook extends the host workflow to singers: requests go directly to the host computer and can include a requested key change.

The project also offers file utilities, singer apps, and a purchasing tool. That breadth suits DJs who want show operations and song requests connected, though some components are separate paid services or experimental utilities. OpenKJ belongs in the Karaoke Software category, but it is oriented toward hosted karaoke rather than a single singer's performance experience.

Key features

Songbook requests and singer access

Songbook lets singers search or browse songs, submit requests, and save favorites in its iOS and Android apps. Its web submission page can also be configured as a venue kiosk. Requests reach the host computer, including any requested key change, which gives hosts a direct workflow for collecting songs rather than relying on verbal requests.

Songbook can optionally display song catalogs from download vendors, which the project says are updated daily. That can help singers identify purchasable tracks, but it is not a broad catalog guarantee: the separate SongShop purchasing tool currently offers PartyTyme as its only vendor.

Song purchasing and file utilities

SongShop is intended for buying and downloading karaoke files on the fly. Its current single-vendor availability limits choice, so it is most useful when PartyTyme has the track a host needs.

OpenKJ Tools includes ReplayGain adjustment, archive compression and extraction, zip-compatibility fixes, and filename capitalization changes. These are practical library-maintenance tasks, but the project labels the tools experimental and recommends backing up the library first. That warning makes them a cautious-use option, not a substitute for a dependable backup routine.

Pricing

The OpenKJ desktop host costs 0.00 USD per free and is free and open source. It is the clear starting point for DJs who want hosting software without a subscription.

OpenKJ Songbook starts at 9.99 USD per month, billed monthly, and includes a one-month free trial. It is aimed at hosts who want singers to search and submit requests through the apps or web page. The lower-cost core option gives up this separate Songbook service; Songbook's starting price is a recurring cost for that singer-facing workflow.

Platforms

The project says its desktop host is built and tested on Linux, macOS, and Windows. Songbook offers singer apps for iOS and Android as well as web-based submissions. The project-wide platform range also includes web, but the core hosting software is a desktop product.

Who it's for

OpenKJ is best suited to karaoke DJs who want free hosting software and a request path that feeds directly to the host computer. Songbook is a better fit for venues that want singers to search independently, submit key changes, and use a kiosk-style web page. DJs who need extensive purchasing choice should weigh SongShop's current PartyTyme-only availability, and anyone using OpenKJ Tools should back up their library before making changes.

Pros and cons

Pros

Free, open-source desktop hosting: The core application costs nothing and is licensed under GPL version 3.
Requests connect to the host: Singers can submit songs and key changes through Songbook rather than relying only on spoken requests.
Multiple singer access routes: Mobile apps, a web page, and kiosk use give venues options for collecting requests.
Useful library utilities: ReplayGain and archive tools address common file-management chores for karaoke collections.

Cons

Songbook is a separate monthly expense: The singer-facing search and request service starts at 9.99 USD per month.
SongShop has limited vendor choice: PartyTyme is currently its only available vendor.
File utilities are experimental: The project advises backing up the library before use, adding risk for DJs working on their primary collection.

Alternatives

Choose KaraFun instead if you want a freemium karaoke app spanning Android, iOS, macOS, web, and Windows, with free songs and Premium song previews on its free plan. StarMaker is an alternative for Android, iOS, or web users considering its freemium Pro subscriptions. Pick TKaraoke if its Android, iOS, or Windows availability better suits your setup and you want to consider its free version.

Smule is another freemium option, with a free way to join existing duets and support for Android, iOS, and web. For a completely free PC karaoke game on Linux, macOS, or Windows, consider UltraStar Deluxe. Kanto Karaoke Player&Recorder may suit Mac or Windows users comparing a freemium player and recorder, while Karaoke 5 is a freemium option across desktop and mobile. Karaoke Mugen is a free alternative for Linux, macOS, web, and Windows.

Verdict

Choose OpenKJ if you are a karaoke DJ who wants capable, free desktop hosting and a direct route for singers' requests. Songbook adds useful mobile and kiosk access at a monthly cost, while the experimental file tools call for care. Look elsewhere if you need a standalone singer-focused experience or broader vendor choice for on-the-fly purchases.

	OpenKJ	Performous
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Free trial	Yes	No
Paid from	$9.99/mo	Free
Open source	No	No
Platforms	Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, Web, Windows	Linux, macOS, Windows
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Supported platforms	desktop	desktop
Vocal controls	No	Yes
Track creation	Yes	Yes
Performance recording	Yes	—

OpenKJ vs Performous

OpenKJ

Performous