Exclusive: Why a Hollywood karaoke hotspot chose to launch in Dubai

Blind Dragon, a modern-day risqué speakeasy hailing from Los Angeles, has opened its doors in Dubai. Blind Dragon Dubai is an exclusive and opulent Asian themed lounge with private karaoke suites and the sister venue to the original celebrity-filled hideaway hotspot on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood. An atmosphere of anything goes is cemented by its name, Blind Dragon, which is a Chinese twist on underground prohibition era establishments known as “Blind Pigs” or a “Blind Tigers.” This clandestine ethos is no doubt what has attracted an A-List celebrity following that promises to be just as alluring in Dubai.

What truly sets Blind Dragon Dubai apart are the Sing or Die Karaoke suites. With state of the art equipment, budding superstars can bring their dreams to life with captivating solo performances or Grammy-worthy group sessions.

It’s a truly innovative and alternative nightlife experience where one can bring the house down. Al Arabiya English recently caught up with Wade Crescent, partner and creative director of Blind Dragon, to discuss the concept and what Dubai can expect of it.

Q. Tell us a bit more Blind Dragon. How did it come to be?

After falling in love with Karaoke whilst living in Tokyo it became a major part of my life. As there were no karaoke concepts in West Hollywood, we just had to do it ourselves. If you build it they will come...

Q. Why did you decide to launch the concept in Dubai?

We had an excellent opportunity with the Al Habtoor City project, so we were never going to turn that down.

Q. How does the Dubai outpost compare to the one back in West Hollywood, LA?

It shares a lot of the design with Los Angeles, but we also had the opportunity to build more karaoke rooms in advance, we didn’t know it would be such a success when we launched in LA. The rooms here are a bit more Lux than in LA. Probably our prototype for future locations.

Q. What impact do you think Blind Dragon would have on the music industry in Dubai?

We’re hoping that it will connect with the music and art communities. From our experience with LA and all the artists that come through we have no doubt it will. Having the privacy is key. It’s great to have a well-rounded clientele. People looking to just come for a drink, come and sing, or even to party late.

Q. What celebrities have visited Blind Dragon in Los Angeles?

Everyone from old rockers like Mick Jagger and Dave Grohl, Grammy winners like Rihanna and Katy Perry. Sport stars like David Beckham. Rap Moguls like P Diddy. Business men like Elon Musk and not forgetting Hollywood royalty, the Kardashians/Jenners. Kanye West actually shot a music video there. We are looking forward to having our celebs from LA come to Blind Dragon to visit us as they pass through the region.

Q. Tell us about the private karaoke rooms throughout the venue…

The privacy in the karaoke rooms is everything, far away from the paparazzi where people can let their hair down and belt out a tune... But it’s not just celebrities. Anyone can rock the mic and it’s the magic where people connect over a song that makes it all worthwhile.

Q. What makes Blind Dragon different than other karaoke lounge?

We cater to a high end crowd and in our lounge we have stylish DJs, fashionistas, supermodels and artists.

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