61 Best Karaoke Songs For Women

Best karaoke songs for women? Well, that can be a contentious issue, can’t it? After all, it depends a lot on the vibe you’re after.

That’s why, in this guide, we’ve collected a huge collection of songs you can choose from – fun, silly, serious, sexy, romantic, inspirational, sentimental, and more, depending on what sort of mood you’re in.

These are the best karaoke songs for women.

“Always Be My Baby” by Mariah Carey

Song Year: 1995

Okay, we all know that Mariah Carey is a monster of a singer, and you may not want to attempt her songs unless you’ve got a bit of practice under your belt.

“Always Be My Baby,” though, is upbeat, chill, fun, flirty, and romantic. The song is just too good to resist, and it’s sure to light up the room at karaoke night.

“Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga

Song Year: 2009

Early Lady Gaga songs are sure to be a hit at karaoke night, and “Bad Romance” stands out as a song that would become emblematic of both her weird, Halloween costume antics and masterful pop sensibilities that would define the early part of her career.

“Baby, Baby” by Amy Grant

Song Year: 1991

Amy Grant tunes are sometimes overlooked in the grand scheme of songs for women, presumably because she’s too Christian to be secular, and too secular to be Christian.

We have no intention of being controversial here, mind you, and if you look at “Baby, Baby” for what it is, you’ll probably find the same thing we did, that it’s a rather innocent, fun pop song about falling in love.

“Barbie Girl” by Aqua

Song Year: 1997

If you’re in a silly mood, then there’s nothing quite like Aqua’s Eurodance of “Barbie Girl.” In addition to being highly recognizable as a B-52’s inspired novelty 90s song, it’s sure to get the crowd up on their feet!

Although it would be wise to tackle this one with a low-voiced man, you can try this one alone or ask one of your girlfriends to take over the male part if you like.

“Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift

Song Year: 2014

Most Taylor Swift songs are about breakups and are therefore emotional or sentimental. Which is fine. You could probably get away with many of her songs, including “I Knew You Were Trouble,” at karaoke night.

But “Shake It Off” is just silly fun. So, get up and shake it to this one!

“Firework” by Katy Perry

Song Year: 2010

Katy Perry’s “Firework” is intended as one of her most inspirational. Does it work? Well, we’ll let you be the judge.

Perry’s songs are great for karaoke, but this comes with the cautionary note that her songs aren’t the easiest to sing, because Perry’s got some pipes on her!

“bad guy” by Billie Eilish

Song Year: 2019

Billie Eilish’s “bad guy” got a lot of attention for being very “different” upon its release. Peel the sticker off the casing, and you find that it’s basically just electropop with whispered vocals. Revolutionary? Perhaps not. Weirdly catchy? Of course, it is after all pop!

“Believe” by Cher

Song Year: 1998

Infamous for kickstarting the robotic, auto-tuned vocal trend, Cher’s “Believe” is, at its core, a very upbeat, catchy dance song.

I can’t tell you whether to believe in life after love, but if you want my advice… you can always find the good in life regardless of what’s happened to you. There is life after anything you might go through, so you may as well embrace it!

“Born This Way” by Lady Gaga

Song Year: 2011

In some ways, Gaga’s “Born This Way” calls back to dance music of the yesteryear. It’s still very quirky, of course, but the chorus could not be more 90s (don’t you think?).

It doesn’t matter who you are. You were “Born This Way,” and this is your opportunity to show everyone who you really are.

“Come Clean” by Hilary Duff

Song Year: 2003

If you have a penchant for melodrama, you will love Hilary Duff’s early 2000s hit, “Come Clean.” Her cutesy, nasally voice notwithstanding, there is a real song beneath the surface, and a skilled singer could do crazy things with this one (can you imagine Christina Aguilera singing it?).

“Come On Over Baby (All I Want Is You)” by Christina Aguilera

Song Year: 2000

When Christina Aguilera was still good, “clean” family fun, we had “Come On Over,” an upbeat, flirtatious, infectious tune. Of course, it took on new meaning post-Dirrty era Christina only two years later.

This song was made for dancing, so if you plan to hit the stage with “Come On Over,” you’d better come prepared to shake that booty!

“Holiday” by Madonna

Song Year: 1983

The early 80s were a time to party, and this post-disco hit reminded us that if we took a holiday, it would be so nice. People sometimes forget, but “Holiday” has a very tight, funky beat that was made for dancing. For any lighthearted celebratory occasion, this is a go-to.

“Dancing Queen” by ABBA

Song Year: 1976

See that girl? Watch that scene? Nah, you’re that girl! And they’re the scene!

Show the world the dancing queen that you are with ABBA’s mid-70s mellow disco, “Dancing Queen.” Yeah, I say “mellow” because this number is slower paced than you might remember, bordering on ballad territory. Funny, that.

This is a fun song to sing with a friend, though, so make it a duet if it please you.

“Dangerous Woman” by Ariana Grande

Song Year: 2016

Ariana Grande’s “Dangerous Woman” features a dangerously syncopated beat, so you’d better not hit the stage to attempt this one cold – the timing for the vocals is anything but straightforward. You’ll want to practice up before you show the world just how dangerous a woman you are!

Grande’s got some catchier, more upbeat numbers to pick from too. I kind of like “Break Free” (featuring Zedd) myself.

“All for You” by Janet Jackson

Song Year: 2001

It seems like a distant memory now, but Janet Jackson was still kind of a big deal in the late 90s and early 2000s. Though often forgotten, out came this sexy number with an infectious groove at the height of her 15 minutes. Which is not criticism, mind you. We still love Janet.

Have a listen for yourself. Most of today’s top 40 has got nothing on “All for You.” Go and remind people just how great a tune this is (aside from the translucent euphemism in the lyrical content, which must have been intended).

“Drama Queen (That Girl)” by Lindsay Lohan

Song Year: 2004

We have a feeling Lindsay Lohan would have a tough time singing this teenaged Disney song unironically nowadays, but at the time of its release, it was mostly good, clean, innocent fun, and that’s probably the best way to remember “Drama Queen (That Girl).”

For something a little less child-like and pristine clean, try her “Rumors” instead.

“The First Cut Is The Deepest” by Sheryl Crow

Song Year: 2003

Legendary British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens was the first to pen and record “The First Cut Is The Deepest” in 1967. Like Dylan or Bowie, his sheer output is a thing of legend.

But if you’re 15 and above, you probably remember this version better. And, honestly, I think a case could be made that Sheryl Crow really made it her own.

“Girlfriend” by Avril Lavigne

Song Year: 2007

We’re acknowledging that if you’re planning to sing Avril at karaoke night at all, you’d probably want to choose your era. Some will remember and even enjoy “Girlfriend,” but there are many of us that rather prefer her early “punk” roots (I can’t say that without chuckling), with songs like “Complicated” (also in this guide).

“Girlfriend” was effectively the beginning of Avril embracing pop music and hip-shaking with a slight punk attitude.

“Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper

Song Year: 1983

Perhaps a more sanguine song exists, but I haven’t heard it yet. Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” features instrumentation that will put a smile on your face and lift your spirits, no matter how bad you might be feeling in the moment.

If you’re out for a night of fun, then it’s hard to imagine a better karaoke selection than this early 80s dance-pop number.

“Hit Me With Your Best Shot” by Pat Benatar

Song Year: 1980

With “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” Pat Benatar showed that girls could rock just as much as the boys… if not more. With a killer, catchy guitar riff and a masterful vocal hook, this song is perfect for any woman that wants to bring a little bit of attitude to karaoke night.

“I Kissed A Girl” by Katy Perry

Song Year: 2008

In 2008, Katy Perry caused a bit of a stir with the sexy, minor key “I Kissed A Girl,” a song that was ultimately written in collaboration with three other songwriters, including the legendary Max Martin. Not surprisingly, Dr. Luke was the producer.

Personally, I don’t think it’s Katy’s best, but it was a big hit, nonetheless. And it might be the perfect choice if you’re in the right mood for it.

“I Should Be So Lucky” by Kylie Minogue

Song Year: 1987

Typically overshadowed by the likes of Madonna, Kylie Minogue is nevertheless a huge star with a prolific release and touring schedule. She truly has no shortage of catchy tunes, though if you enjoyed her early, innocent years better, then “I Should Be So Lucky” is a great choice for karaoke.

Otherwise, I think “Spinning Around,” “Love at First Sight,” and “WOW” are among her best.

“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston

Song Year: 1973

It’s beyond dispute. Whitney Houston made Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” her own. Man, the pipes on that woman. It truly is a shame how things ended for her.

This song, for obvious reasons, is not for the faint of heart, though. You should only attempt it if you’re confident with your vocals or if you’re so drunk you don’t care.

“If I Could Turn Back Time” by Cher

Song Year: 1989

Cher may not be able to turn back time, but “If I Could Turn Back Time” still cast her in a very sexy, empowered light, especially in the music video, which showed her singing and dancing to very enthusiastic navy personnel (she was 43 at the time!).

If you’re feeling nostalgic, this could be just the ticket at karaoke night.

“Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” by Stevie Nicks

Song Year: 1981

When it comes to empowered female singers with some killer tunes, we certainly can’t forget Stevie Nicks (of Fleetwood Mack fame). Although I do think there are better Nicks tunes, what stands out about this one, of course, is that it features Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. If you can find a friend to sing this one with, it will be double the fun!

Other great Nicks tunes to try are “Dreams,” “Edge of Seventeen,” and “Rooms on Fire.”

“Like A Virgin” by Madonna

Song Year: 1984

“Like A Virgin” is one of Madonna’s biggest hits, and it was famously parodied by “Weird Al” Yankovic (“Like A Surgeon”) in 1985 as well. I have no comment as to what kind of personal statement the lyrics will make, so sing this one at your own discretion. In a drunken barroom, it probably doesn’t matter much.

“Love Story” by Taylor Swift

Song Year: 2008

“Love Story” is standard fare for Taylor Swift’s early pop country efforts. Sappy and sentimental, the narrator longs for a happy ending with her lovely partner. Life doesn’t really work that way, at least not most of the time, but it’s always fun to see the world through the eyes of a love-struck 19-year-old (which is how old Taylor was at the time).

“My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion

Song Year: 1997

There are three things that will be permanently associated with the 1997 romance / drama film Titanic. One, Leonardo DiCaprio, two, Kate Winslet, and three, this – Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On.”

Dion is considered a very skilled vocalist, though, so don’t approach this one casually, especially if your singing chops aren’t up to speed.

“Oops!…I Did It Again” by Britney Spears

Song Year: 2000

“Oops!…I Did It Again” is prototypical of early Britney Spears tunes, and clearly one of her most remembered. I guess you could call the song… refreshing? You can’t find too many people who will admit to “playing” with other people’s feelings.

The only other thing we will always remember this song for is Britney’s full-body orange jumpsuit that accentuated her young figure. Oops! I said too much there.

“Promiscuous” by Nelly Frutado ft. Timbaland

Song Year: 2006

In 2006, Canadian singer-songwriter Nelly Furtado “surprised” audiences (come on, it was well on its way…) with a new album and a much sexier image, especially compared to her first two, more clean-cut releases. But let’s be honest… it seems like most pop stars eventually go this way.

Here we find her in a crop top and skintight jeans, in collaboration with the infinitely prolific Timbaland (in a black tank top), and “Promiscuous” made its rounds in the club that summer. Oh, did it ever. It was a hot summer indeed.

“Say My Name” by Destiny’s Child

Song Year: 1999

R&B girl group Destiny’s Child was kind of short lived, but in retrospect you have of wonder whether Beyoncé always wanted it that way… Either way, though, “Say My Name” is emblematic of everything the group was about.

While the instrumentation feels like its lacking something, the harmonies in this tune are whip tight. It could be a lot of fun to find some friends to sing this tune with.

“Say So” by Doja Cat

Song Year: 2019

Modern day pop music, at least to me, is a little shocking. Maybe that’s the point.

Lyrical content aside, Doja Cat’s “Say So” features a funky, vintage groove that’s hard not to get wrapped up in. It seems like she’s singing at a whisper for most of the song, which should make it easy to emulate. Just remember there’s a rap in there too, and it’s a tad raunchy.

“Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson

Song Year: 2004

This song is deceptive. Kelly Clarkson’s “Since U Been Gone” has a reputation of being a notoriously difficult karaoke song, mostly because singers repeatedly underestimate its melodic range.

The verse is in… what you might presume to be a comfortable range, though it can be a little low for women. Then, of course, it makes a huge leap into the chorus, which may not seem high on first brush, but is very difficult to reach, thanks to the sudden transition.

It’s a great karaoke song, yes, but it’s known as one of the hardest karaoke songs of all time, so user beware.

“Spiderwebs” by No Doubt

Song Year: 1995

If you’re going to sing a No Doubt song anyway, it may as well be one of their best, and the ska oriented “Spiderwebs” certainly fits the bill. I love the guitar pinch harmonics in this tune.

“A Public Affair” by Jessica Simpson

Song Year: 2006

“A Public Affair” finds Jessica Simpson at her flirtatious best. R&B, soul, disco, or funk, call it what you will, it’s got an infectious, syncopated vintage groove that makes it perfect for dancing. The song is all about partying it up with friends, so you know it’s got mad appeal for karaoke night.

“Torn” by Natalie Imbruglia

Song Year: 1997

Okay, Natalie Imbruglia’s “Torn” may not exactly be a party anthem, but it’s a late-90s highlight, so far as I’m concerned. It’s also very empowering, because in this song, the narrator bares their heart.

“Umbrella” by Rihanna

Song Year: 2007

I will be honest and put it in here that I’m not a big Rihanna fan, but there are plenty of people out there who are, and “Umbrella” might just be the song you’ve been trying to nail down. When you want to let your friends know how much you care, and how important they are to you, this is the song.

“Wannabe” by Spice Girls

Song Year: 1996

If it’s “Throwback Thursday” at the bar, then it’s hard to imagine a better song to pull out of the archives than the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe,” especially if you’re headed to karaoke with friends!

Some people seem to remember the Girls as everything that was wrong with pop music, but their music had true substance, and this song is a good reminder of that fact. I’m sorry if you love today’s top 40, but I would take this over anything new.

“Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield

Song Year: 2004

British singer-songwriter Natasha Bedingfield’s “Unwritten” is no doubt one of the most inspirational songs of its time, and it’s best remembered as the theme song to the reality TV show The Hills.

It’s a great song, to be sure, but the chords in the chorus always confuse me. I have a hard time telling whether the melody is supposed to be major or minor. Maybe I’m just being picky. Plenty of people love this song, and it’s sure to win them over at karaoke night.

“What’s Love Got To Do With It” by Tina Turner

Song Year: 1984

“Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll” Tina Tuner delivers a passionate, powerful performance on “What’s Love Got To Do With It.” I don’t know what love has got to do with it. What I do know is Tina can make anything work. I can’t see too many female singers pulling this one off with the grace that she did.

“Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler

Song Year: 1988

“Wind Beneath My Wings” is Bette Midler at her inspirational best. It’s a versatile song, too, because you can dedicate it to a friend, or even a significant other.

“Wrecking Ball” by Miley Cyrus

Song Year: 2013

If melodrama is your thing, Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball” should be right down your alley. This era Miley is clearly not my thing, but if you like it, nothing is stopping you from giving it a go.

“You’re Still The One” by Shania Twain

Song Year: 1997

Long-term romantic relationships may be a rarity in this day and age, especially for the famous, but Shania Twain sings about her successful partnership in “You’re Still The One.” It’s admirable, really. And if your significant other is “still the one,” be sure to sing this song to them every once in a while, to let them know. They’ll be touched.

“Baby One More Time” by Britney Spears

Song Year: 2016

Britney Spears’ debut hit “Baby One More Time” is in the very fabric of culture and was even recently in the headlines because Kate Upton chose it as her song for Lip Sync Battle against Ricky Martin.

People point to Upton’s performance as being raunchy, but Spears herself was only 16 at the time of the release of this tempting hit, and in the music video, she donned a provocative schoolgirl outfit too.

“Jolene” by Dolly Parton

Song Year: 1974

Well, while we’re not too sure about Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” being a karaoke banger… we do know that it’s one of her most recognized hits. And while it’s been said before, this Jolene woman sure must have been something special for Parton to have felt threatened by her.

“Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood

Song Year: 2005

I could never quite figure out if this was a song about taking pre-emptive revenge or dumping an unfaithful boyfriend, but oh well… Confusing lyrics aside, Carrie Underwood’s country pop of “Before He Cheats” gets the job done, especially at the karaoke bar!

“Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen

Song Year: 2012

Maybe it’s just me but if you’re planning to sing a Carly Rae Jepsen song anyway, it may as well be one of her most remembered. And while the lyrics to “Call Me Maybe” are little more than silly, flirtatious fun, there is a real song underneath. Strings? Guitars? In pop music? Nonsense!

“All About That Bass” by Meghan Trainor

Song Year: 2014

Some may be drawn to Meghan Trainor’s thinly veiled euphemism of “All About That Bass,” although I’ve got to tell you I’m not one of them (I don’t even like the vocal style). Interesting that this song was a mere foretelling of things to come in top 40 pop music.

Anyway, if the vintage influenced pop of “All About That Bass” jiggles your junk in the trunk, I’m not here to judge.

“I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts

Song Year: 1981

In “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Joan Jett nails the flippant, 80s rocker chick look and attitude to a tee. And even Britney Spears thought it was a good song selection for karaoke (I mean, her raunchier cover version… yeah, that’s it). Killer riff, killer hook. The only thing it’s missing is a better guitar solo.

“Hollaback Girl” by Gwen Stefani

Song Year: 2004

Gwen Stefani asserts her dominance as the cheerleader captain of the entire cheerleading squad in “Hollaback Girl.” It was a little weird watching Stefani turn pop after spending years fronting the rock, pop, and ska band No Doubt, but when the results are this sugary, you can’t be too upset about it.

It’s bananas, indeed.

“Party in the U.S.A.” by Miley Cyrus

Song Year: 2009

I rather prefer this period of long-haired Miley Cyrus, with the faux country, part pop, part disco of “Party in the U.S.A.” where she admits she’s a little nervous to be in L.A. We all know it’s just for show for the shameless twerking pop princess, but it’s fun to think she had butterflies in her stomach upon her arrival in California.

“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor

Song Year: 1978

Show the world you’re a survivor with this late 70s disco hit. No matter the trouble, Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” can help you get through safely to the other side.

“Roar” by Katy Perry

Song Year: 2013

I’m not sure about this whole idea of women roaring as if lions, but the world has already spoken, and the science is out on this, so my opinions don’t really matter… Katy Perry’s “Roar” is a blood pumping female empowerment pop hit.

“Respect” by Aretha Franklin

Song Year: 1967

Many would agree “Respect” is “Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin at her very best. This is what soul is supposed to sound like!

“I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston

Song Year: 1987

Many would agree “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” is Whitney Houston at her playful best. It’s very much a product of its time, with heavy synthesizer and drum machine use, but that doesn’t make it any less danceable. Resist. Just try.

“Complicated” by Avril Lavigne

Song Year: 2002

Avril was just 17 years old when “Complicated” originally came out. Is it just me, or does this song give you mad flashbacks of your high school years? I’m not talking about my age; I mean the content of the song.

I’m still not sure whether “Complicated” was punk rock in any way, shape or form, but the song is surprisingly good, and probably even better than you remember it.

“(They Long to Be) Close to You” by The Carpenters

Song Year: 1970

I don’t know if you can even speak of the best karaoke songs for women without mention of the immeasurably talented singer and drummer of the Carpenters, Karen Carpenter. “(They Long to Be) Close to You” may be a product of its time, but it has an undeniably ageless quality to it also.

“One Way Or Another” by Blondie

Song Year: 1978

What is Blondie’s “One Way Or Another” if not playful and fun? The quirky, new wave chord progression hints at the whimsy of things to come. Then, vocalist Debbie Harry comes in, and it’s every bit as delightful as you imagined it would be.

“Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé ft. JAY Z

Song Year: 2003

Beyoncé showed the world what she was made of in “Crazy in Love,” a song about obsession and infatuation. If you’re going to bust this one out at karaoke night, you’d better come prepared to dance! Watch the music video again – you’ll see that her dancing is otherworldly.

“Breathe” by Faith Hill

Song Year: 1999

Faith Hill’s “Breathe” starts out as a mellow country ballad, but sometimes you do need a few slower tunes at karaoke night. The song builds into a bit of a power ballad type situation in the chorus, though, and it hooks you like crazy. Another late-90s gem.

“The Sweet Escape” by Gwen Stefani ft. AKON

Song Year: 2006

Gwen Stefani’s “The Sweet Escape” featuring AKON is another very recognizable pop hit from the album of the same title. The song is silly, fun, and romantic.

Karaoke Songs For Women, Final Thoughts

You’ve got all the songs, and now, the rest is up to you. What mood are you in tonight? What song matches your vibes? What friends will you invite to join you? Here’s wishing you all the fun in the world at karaoke!