It all depends on the creative resourcefulness and imagination of any given individual, as to how much of a cop out or not using prerecorded backing might be IMO. Using a taped backing at a song session, seems rather bizarre and redundant to my mind to say the least.

And yet many sounds cannot be generated by acoustic instruments - or indeed any instrument other than technology and software. In such circumstances, using a recorded backing might even be an innovative and creative leap.

As far as a song or acoustic music session is concerned, if you *want* straightforward backing but can't play, why not simply get to know those regulars who DO, and make it work that way?

I think it's taking to pee somewhat to expect anyone to pay to watch a performer sing Kareoke style though.