Human microphone

A human microphone, also known as the people's microphone, is a means for delivering a speech to a large group of people, wherein persons gathered around the speaker repeat what the speaker says, thus "amplifying" the voice of the speaker without the need for amplification equipment.

The speaker begins by saying "mic check". When the people near the speaker respond "mic check", the speaker knows they have the group's attention. The speaker says a short phrase, part of a speech, and then pauses. Those that can hear what the speaker has said repeat the phrase in unison, and when finished, the speaker says another phrase, then pauses again waiting for a response, etc., until the speaker's speech is complete..

If the entire gathering still cannot hear the speaker, organizers ask for additional repetitions by those at the limit of earshot. For large gatherings, this may require two or three waves of repetition.

History

The use of electronic amplification devices, such as loudspeakers or bullhorns, may require permits for "amplified sound". The use of human microphones provides a way for people to address large gatherings without running afoul of such requirements. The human microphone was first used in the anti-nuclear protests in the United States and later in the 1999 Seattle WTO protests.

Mic Check

"Mic Check" is the first single by rapper Juelz Santana from his second studio album What the Game's Been Missing!.

The song samples "The Roots Mural Theme" by Quincy Jones.

Charts

References

External links

Mic Check (Hadouken! song)

"Mic Check" is the third single by British Grindie band Hadouken! to be released from their second studio album, For the Masses.

Background

The song was originally going to contain a sample from Double 99's RIP Groove, however due to clearance issues, the sample was removed to prevent delays in the release of the album. When the sample was cleared for use, Mic Check was announced as a single. There are three versions of the song; the album version, the radio edit, which is exactly the same as the album version but with the sample reinstated, and a remix which contains the sample and is a heavier, dancier version of the song.

Track listing

Digital download

iTunes EP

Chart performance

Following strong radio airplay throughout March and April 2010, "Mic Check" debuted on the UK Dance Chart at #14, before climbing to #13 the following week. Upon release, the single climbed a further 5 places to its current peak of #8.