101 Best Karaoke Songs Ever
Are you looking for some songs to sing at your next karaoke night? Then look no further! In this ultimate list, we've compiled the best karaoke songs ever, so you can spend less time looking through tracks and more time on the microphone.
Contents
“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
Song Year: 1992
We're starting our list off with Whitney Houston's incredible rendition of “I Will Always Love You”. While not everyone has the vocals or the guts to tackle this belting classic, you'll have a great time nonetheless.
Just a word of advice, don't let your tone-deaf friends take this one (for the sake of everyone's ears).
“Piano Man” by Billy Joel
Song Year: 1973
“Piano Man” has been a bar favorite for half a century now, and for some pretty good reasons. It's easy to sing, pleasant to listen to, and lyrically ingenious, not to mention it has the greatest harmonica interludes of all time.
No matter how much time passes, you can rest assured knowing that Billy Joel's masterpiece will always be a part of karaoke nights all around the world.
“Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond
Song Year: 1969
If you really want to get the room riled up and yelling at the top of your lungs, then “Sweet Caroline” is just the track you're looking for. It's a song everyone loves and knows the lyrics to – so well that fans have made their own additions of “bah bah bahs” and “so goods” to create a cacophony of beautiful nonsense.
“All the Small Things” by Blink 182
Song Year: 2004
This early 2000s pop-punk hit smashed records and quickly rose to fame on radios all throughout the states. Not only are the lyrics fun to sing in an obnoxious impression of the singer's nasally vocals, but the in-your-face lyrics make for an authentic punk rock experience all around.
“Firework” by Katy Perry
Song Year: 2010
Nothing feels better to sing or lights up the room with positivity more than Katy Perry's blaring hit, “Firework.”
Alright, that might be a bit opinionated, but it's still an exciting karaoke track nonetheless. What's not to love? Other than the sore throat you get afterward, that is.
“Creep” by Radiohead
Song Year: 1992
Anyone who chooses to sing this song for their turn has their eyes on a single segment of the song. Yeah, you know the part.
To be fair, it's a pretty good part, which is why “Creep” finds a comfortable spot on our list. And heck, the rest of the song ain't bad, either.
“My Way” by Frank Sinatra
Song Year: 1969
You knew it was coming, we knew it was coming; it should be no surprise that Frank Sinatra's 60's classic is coming in hot to the 2020s with some long, belting vibrato notes. Yes, this iconic track is as old as bubble wrap, but it still finds a way to be fresh in countless karaoke renditions and group sing-alongs everywhere you go.
Frank, you really did leave us with something special, didn't ya?
“500 Miles” by The Proclaimers
Song Year: 1988
This song is goofy, nonsensical, whimsical, and absolutely a treat to sing with your friends. It doesn't matter if you're packed together for a long road trip or singing along during bar karaoke night; “500 Miles” does NOT disappoint.
The best part about this entry is that you don't need any musical talent to sing it; just put it on and let the chaos ensue!
“Country Roads” by John Denver
Song Year: 1971
Whether you’re a fan of country music or not, “Country Roads” is bound to make you feel good as you sing its relatable lyrics. It doesn’t even matter if you don’t share the same country home as John Denver; it’s what his words represent that reminds us of the place where we belong.
“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
Song Year: 1975
We could fill an entire list with karaoke Queen songs, but to make things fair for everyone else, we only chose one. And while all their songs would make stellar entries to this compilation, there was only ever one we could choose.
“Bohemian Rhapsody” is the ultimate group karaoke track and has a little bit of something for everyone. The rapid shifts make it a blast to sing, and you'll find a few other songs make a more impactful closing act.
“Barbie Girl” by Aqua
Song Year: 1997
Competing with “500 Miles” for the goofiest song on this list, “Barbie Girl” is a funny song that guys and gals alike love singing. Oddly enough, it seems like the guys are always more enthusiastic about this one…
“Wonderwall” by Oasis
Song Year: 1995
How does a song with vocals that drag on in a monotone voice make for such a fun karaoke song? It beats us, but we're all for it.
“Wonderwall” is one of those odd one-hit wonders that doesn't seem like it would be popular on paper, but – bam! The next thing you know and you're singing it at the top of your lungs on the next karaoke night.
“The Middle” by Jimmy Eat World
Song Year: 2001
College rock is darned, “The Middle” is a fast-paced banger that makes everyone start headbanging like there's no tomorrow.
Just remember: before you get this rockin' 2000s track on, be sure to get your air guitars out and turn those make-believe amps up.
“A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton
Song Year: 2002
We had “500 Miles,” and now it's time to double it and create the equally amazing karaoke song “A Thousand Miles.”
We have no idea what makes songs about traveling numerous miles so appealing, but we're all here for it. Just as long as they're fun to sing, they can release as many as they want.
“Africa” by Toto
Song Year: 1982
Sing it alone, or sing it in a group; it matters not, for “Africa” is a versatile karaoke tune with a bit of oomph to it. You can try to forget about it, but once it comes on, the nostalgia will come flowing back like the rains in Africa.
“Closing Time” by Semisonic
Song Year: 1998
The most fitting time to bring out this classic British rock track is – you guessed it – at the end of the night when you're ready to wrap things up. Cmon, it's literally perfect for that!
When “Closing Time” comes on, get ready to wrap your arms around each other's shoulders and start drunkenly swaying back and forth during slovenly singing along. This is the ONLY way to do this song.
“Don't Stop Believing” by Journey
Song Year: 1981
The only exception to not ending off the night with “Closing Time” is by ending it with “Don't Stop Believing.”
In all seriousness, Journey's all-time classic is an excellent karaoke sing-along and makes for a great time regardless of singing ability. After all, there's nothing more inspiring than getting together with your companions for an all-out, shameless re-singing of this timeless song.
“Life Is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts
Song Year: 2006
People will say they don't like country music but then proceed to blow their chops out when this banger starts playing on the speakers.
Well, who could blame them? It's not really fair, considering that the track is so fun to do on a karaoke night, that it's not a contest of “IF we'll sing it,” but rather “WHEN we'll sing it.”
“You Belong With Me” by Taylor Swift
Song Year: 2008
Honestly, pretty much all of Taylor Swift's songs are karaoke worthy, but as we said before, there can only be one. And that one is “You Belong With Me,” no questions asked.
For real, though, this song BELONGS on your karaoke playlist, and if you say otherwise, then that's alright. We'll just write a breakup song about you.
“Mr. Brightside” by The Killers
Song Year: 2004
The song's lyrics are kind of bittersweet, but the energy is high, and the singability is nigh from perfection.
There's a quote about this song, and it's that “nobody takes the time to learn the lyrics to this song. They are born with them already ingrained in their head.”
It's probably a case of genetic learning or something like that.
“What's Up” by 4 Non-Blondes
Song Year: 1993
The '90s was a time of countless one-hit wonders, one of the best being “What's Up” by 4 Non-Blondes.
In this song, there's 0% nudity, subjective themes, cursing, or violence, and a 100% composition of “HEYS” and “YEAHS” echoing throughout the room like there's no tomorrow.
You can try to reach the high energy levels of the original singer, but your efforts will likely be futile.
“Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen
Song Year: 2012
Funnily enough, the phantom of this song is still going strong a whole decade later. You may have loved it in its prime or despised it as much as “Gangnam Style” for oversaturating the music industry, but there's one undeniable truth: this song was, and will continue to be, a top-tier karaoke song.
People may “ugh” and sigh when they see “Call Me Maybe” in the queue, but it's those folks who sing the loudest when it actually comes on.
“Sugar We're Goin' Down Swinging” by Fall Out Boy
Song Year: 2005
New Fall Out Boy is great, but nothing can compare to the old sound of the band that defined its genre and kept rock going strong into the 2000s.
As for the karaoke-ability of “Sugar We're Goin' Down Swinging,” it gets an astounding 10/10.
The energy? Unparalleled. Lyrics? Bloody brilliant. Guitars? BANGING. Trust us: you'll want to include this rock anthem at your next karaoke gathering.
“Take On Me” by A-ha
Song Year: 1985
“Take On Me” might have been perceived as a catchy pop song that was a huge commercial success and nothing more. However, its acoustic version performed by the band in 2017 opened many people’s eyes to how deep the lyrics actually are.
The best thing is that you can choose between the youthful and playful original or the more somber, mature version that reflects on life and invites introspection.
“Ain't No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
Song Year: 1967
“Ain't No Mountain High Enough” is the perfect song to duet if you've got a buddy or lover willing to indulge you. Even if you don't have anyone to back you up, you can still tackle this track by yourself; though, it's admittedly way better with a friend.
“Dancing Queen” by ABBA
Song Year: 1976
Whether you're a fan of the OG release or rallied behind the popular musical that featured a variety of ABBA songs, Mamma Mia!, “Dancing Queen,” is an absolute pleasure to take the floor over with.
Not only is it satisfying to sing, but it always seems to make everyone feel good for a while after.
“Sugar” by Maroon 5
Song Year: 2015
Maroon 5 is another one of those bands with a ton of songs suitable for karaoke, and it was honestly hard to choose which one to include on this list. Of course, after careful consideration, we deemed “Sugar” to be most worthy of your karaoke night.
Whether you're trying to hit Adam Levine's high falsetto notes or jamming out to the funky beat of the song, “Sugar” is a crowd-pleaser that'll get you claps and cheers at the end of your performance.
“Viva La Vida” by Coldplay
Song Year: 2008
You can let the nostalgia come flowing back, or you can put on your best suit and tie, grab the mic, and prepare to sing one of the most tasteful tunes of all time.
“Viva La Vida” is that one unforgettable tune that seems like it just came out yesterday but is, in reality, well over a decade old (makes you feel old, doesn't it?)
“Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley
Song Year: 1987
It went from the 80s hit to an internet “meme” song to a track that's still relevant and going strong all the way in 2023. The song's persisting existence in pop culture is a phenomenon but a welcome one nonetheless.
See, no matter how much of a joke “Never Gonna Give You Up” becomes, it'll always remain an incredible karaoke tune and stay in our hearts as a song that spans numerous generations.
“Tubthumping” by Chmbawamba
Song Year: 1995
It’s the song everybody knows but can’t name its title or the band for that matter. Regardless, the quirkily named “Tubthumping” is a blast for the whole squad to sing along to.
In addition, the chorus is uplifting, so it’s a great song to cheer someone up or celebrate the human spirit’s perseverance.
“Hey Ya!” by Outkast
Song Year: 2003
“Hey, Ya!” is amongst the snazziest, jazziest tracks you can snap your fingers to and sing along with while keeping a cool composure.
When considering the songs on this list, one of the things we prioritize most is the “fun factor.” Well, we'll let you know right now: this song scores a 10 in this category.
“I Want It That Way” by Backstreet Boys
Song Year: 1999
Get your backup singers ready and put on your best pretty boy face because “I Want It That Way” is making its way to a karaoke night near you! Not only is this track prime real estate for pre-established choreography, but you'll be sliding around on the ground as smoothly as the original vocals when you take on this boy band classic.
“Shut Up and Dance” by WALK THE MOON
Song Year: 2014
Feel free to clap and dance along to this one – it was literally made for it, after all.
We really do love those lively songs full of vitality, and “Shut Up and Dance” is just that. It manages to bring back that cheesy yet lovable feel of 70s disco and puts a uniquely modern twist on the aesthetic.
“Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars
Song Year: 2010
“Just the Way You Are” is a romantic ballad with heartfelt lyrics that will bring a smile to everyone's face. Moreover, the song features an upbeat tempo and catchy melody, making it just as much to sing as it does to listen to.
“My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion
Song Year: 1997
“My Heart Will Go On” is another song that requires some incredible vocals but sounds remarkable when executed properly.
Comparable to “Will Always Love You” and “My Way,” singing this track isn't for the faint of heart, and once again, you'll probably want to let that one “tone deaf” friend who thinks he can sing away from this song.
“Just Give Me a Reason” by P!nk ft. Nate Ruess
Song Year: 2012
“Just Give Me a Reason” makes for a delectable duet and will have everyone swaying side to side by the end of your turn. So if you’ve got a karaoke partner chomping at the bits to perform something together, you can’t go wrong picking this song that goes well with a wide vocal range.
“Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls
Song Year: 1998
“Iris” is the kind of song you listen to after a bad breakup, so it's probably not the first name that comes to mind when you think of the best karaoke songs, but rest assured; Goo Goo Dolls' iconic one-hit wonder is no stranger to the sing-along scene.
Perhaps it's the fact that it's so deeply ingrained into the culture that everyone is willing to sing along to it, but we can't deny the facts: “Iris” is a staple karaoke classic.
“Beautiful Girls” by Sean Kingston
Song Year: 2007
The background instrumentals are so simple that it really lets the vocals shine. And unsurprisingly, it's songs that are all-about-them-vocals that make the best choices for karaoke.
Additionally, “Beautiful Girls” is just an overall pleasant song to sing. So there's that too.
“All-Star” by Smash Mouth
Song Year: 1999
You probably know “All-Star” from Shrek, and if you’ve got a merry crew of unique characters, it’s only fitting to bust out your favorite dance moves and let your voices loose with this song.
The lyrics are quirky, carefree, and all about having fun in life. Furthermore, the song reminds us to be bold and look for opportunities to shine, so grab that mic and become an all-star.
“Some Nights” by Fun.
Song Year: 2012
“Some Nights” is an often forgotten but ever-present karaoke phantom that pops up every now and then and is a harbinger of joy for all who hear. There are few things in life that can compare to a room of friends jamming out to this amazing song.
“Chop Suey” by System of a Down
Song Year: 2001
If you want a challenge for your song choice, then we've got you. “Chop Suey” is hard to sing, but for a different reason than those vocally challenging pieces. Instead, you'll have trouble keeping up with the fast-paced lyrics (or even understanding them) and emulating the screamo-esq style of the aggressive rock band.
Of course, once you master the art of “Chop Suey,” it becomes a blast to sing every time.
“Hooked on a Feeling” by Blue Swede
Song Year: 1974
“Hooked on a Feeling” was repopularized by Guardians of the Galaxy in 2014, and we're grateful for that. The song’s unique chorus will likely get the crowd going on any karaoke night. Moreover, its laid-back vocals make it a great pick if you’re looking for something light yet fun to sing.
“Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga
Song Year: 2009
Out of all of Lady Gaga's hits, “Bad Romance” stands atop the rest on the karaoke scene. It's a pretty close call, but we think it's safe to say if you could choose only one Gaga song to include on your bar playlist, it should be this one.
In all honesty, you can't go wrong with whichever Lady Gaga song you choose, so you win no matter what.
“Girlfriend” by Avril Lavigne
Song Year: 2007
Like Avril herself, “Girlfriend” hasn't aged a day since its release a decade and a half ago.
The fast-paced, energetic style of the pop singer makes for an excellent selection for karaoke night, and out of all her songs, this one is certainly her most well-known and dynamic.
“What Makes You Beautiful” by One Direction
Song Year: 2011
In a way, One Direction was the spiritual successor to the Backstreet Boys, mainly because they were a notorious boy band, and their songs were all superb for singing out loud.
Despite everything that's been said about this song, people still love nodding their heads to it when it comes on the radio or on the speakers of a store.
“Livin' on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi
Song Year: 1986
Nothing unites a crowd quite like “Livin' on a Prayer” does. It's one of those songs that demands you drop what you're doing and start singing along like there's no tomorrow, which makes it perfect for adding to your karaoke routine.
And yes, this is a group song, and you can't tell us otherwise.
“Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper
Song Year: 1983
How could we EVER make a “best karaoke songs” list without including Cyndi Lauper's 80s anthem, “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun?”
There's just something charming about this classic ode to the “girls' night out” that keeps us coming back to it well after its run on the billboards.
“Basket Case” by Green Day
Song Year: 1994
“Basket Case” is a beloved punk anthem blasted by Green Day fans everywhere, even to this day. Coincidentally, it's also a song that consistently finds its way onto the karaoke queue without fail and never seems to leave. Like the song's lyrics, the presence of the track is unapologetic and deserves the most crude of renditions.
“Pompeii” by Bastille
Song Year: 2013
Didja forget to add this one to your playlist? Hopefully not, because “Pompeii” is an explosive entry to our list that we all know and love. From the singers who love to take the spotlight and tackle the main vocals to the quieter folks who like taking a backseat and doing the backup vocals, you'll never get tired of including this banger.
“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor
Song Year: 1982
“Eye of the Tiger” is an iconic training montage soundtrack that has made its way into countless sports movies since its 1982 release. That aside, it's a tune we can't stop singing simply because it's addicting to the tongue and full of shifts that make it a gratifying experience.
“Let It Go” by Idina Menzel
Song Year: 2013
Ever since this song's debut in the 2013 Disney movie, Frozen, “Let It Go” has been an incredibly popular pick on the karaoke scene. Not only does it require some ironclad vocals to perform well, but it's a song we all love to sing along to (even if our singing ability is a bit subpar).
“Party in the USA” by Miley Cyrus
Song Year: 2009
We're not here to argue whether new or old Miley Cyrus is better; you like what you like, and that's that. Of course, something we can all agree on is that her OG track, “Party in the USA,” is one of the catchiest and most fun songs to sing of all time.
“It's The End of the World As We Know It” by R.E.M.
Song Year: 1987
Whether you're someone who knows all the lyrics by heart or the person who just likes to mumble along to the fast-paced singing of R.E.M., you can't help but have an ear-to-ear grin on your face while this banging 80's song is on.
“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
Song Year: 2011
Not to be confused with “A Thousand Miles,” Christina Perri's lovely 2011 ballet is a heartfelt and beautiful song to sing at karaoke night. It's one of those songs that never gets old no matter how much time passes and radiates a bittersweet freshness with every listen.
If you leave “A Thousand Years” out, can you really call it a karaoke night?
“Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran
Song Year: 2014
It was a close call between “Thinking Out Loud” and “Perfect,” with both songs giving out similar vibes and singability, but we're going to have to give it to the predecessor this time.
“Thinking Out Loud” is one of the top new-gen love songs that's lyrically clever, genuine, and completely pure. It's a song we all loved to sing several years ago and one that we'll continue to adore indefinitely.
“You're Beautiful” by James Blunt
Song Year: 2004
“You're Beautiful” is so simple yet utterly effective at capturing hearts. The words of the song are slow-paced and easy to keep track of, and it's a great song overall for beginners. What's even better is that it's a track everyone knows and loves, so you can never go wrong when adding this gem to your playlist.
“How To Save a Life” by The Fray
Song Year: 2005
You can let the memories come flooding back with this nostalgia-filled track from the early 2000s. “How To Save a Life” is one of those songs with a lot of meaning to many and really resonates with its audience. It's a part of many people's childhoods and continues to speak to global listeners even to this day.
“Teenage Dirtbag” by Wheatus
Song Year: 2000
Pretty much every 90's and 00's kid had sung this song before and meant it. We can't put our finger on why, but it's one of those songs where we just lose ourselves and sing to our heart's content regardless of who's watching.
Seriously though, why is this song so catchy? Is it because we're all secretly teenage dirtbags on the inside?
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
Song Year: 1991
The vocals sound dreary, yet there's something that presses on throughout the song and leads into an incredible high-energy bridge that'll bring the hype ten-fold. If you're a fan of this iconic grunge classic, you'll be remiss to leave it during karaoke night.
“That's Not My Name” by The Ting Tings
Song Year: 2008
Yet another fast-paced track with a sick beat and easy to sing, The Ting Tings bring the energy with “That's Not My Name.” It's more speak-singing than anything, which makes it perfect for the tonally impaired, and it's just generally a fun set of lyrics to play around with.
Plus, it's one of those songs where everyone inevitably joins in by the end.
“Man! I Feel Like a Woman” by Shania Twain
Song Year: 1997
Can you get any jazzier and smooth than Shania Twain's “Man! I Feel Like a Woman”? We say probably not. Along with having some of the slickest vocals of all female singers, Twain brings a whole new meaning to southern rock with an attitude.
Quite frankly, this song is one of the most popular songs for karaoke of all time, and we just couldn't leave it out.
“Someone Like You” by Adele
Song Year: 2011
If you're looking for a song to give people chills, then “Someone Like You” is the exact tune you're trying to find. It takes a bit of practice and vocal talent to execute well, but when performed properly, it can silence and impress an entire crowd.
An honorable mention to Adele's other hit, “Hello,” which is equally hard to perform and sounds just as fantastic.
“Wannabe” by Spice Girls
Song Year: 1996
Spice Girls took the world by storm in the late 90s, and “Wannabe” perfectly portrays why. It’s a dynamic song with lots of quick exchanges between the singers, making it a great pick for a group performance with your best friends.
Managing to nail the lyrics in sync with others makes this song an incredibly fun experience for the performers and will leave the audience in awe.
“Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” by Wham!
Song Year: 1984
An oldie but a goldie, “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” is the embodiment of the smooth-moving, funky era of the 80s. Dance along, sing along, or clap along; just as long as you're moving your body to the beat, you're doing it right.
You can really feel the exaggerated dance moves and the bright neon colors of the 80s with this one. Not that that's a bad thing.
“Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice
Song Year: 1990
“Ice Ice Baby” is truly one of the cheesiest songs of all time. Can we say that it aged well in regard to rap music? Not really. Does that make it any less of an absolute blast to sing? We say nay!
If you're willing to put a bit of your dignity aside to get up in front of everybody and break down some of the corniest lines ever contrived by humanity, then you're a step ahead of everyone else.
“Happy” by Pharrell Williams
Song Year: 2013
As you can gather by the name of the track, “Happy” is nothing short of a glowing feel-good song that proposes itself to make people smile and clap along to the beat. If you can't get everyone to smack their hands together and give a little jig when you put this on during karaoke, then it's time to high-tail it out there.
“September” by Earth, Wind, & Fire
Song Year: 1978
When you hear those “Ah ee ahs,” it's time to stop, drop, and “September.” What that entails exactly is up to you, but we can tell you it probably means you should start breaking it down groovy style.
Funnily enough, this song seems to only get more and more popular as it ages.
“Tik Tok” by Ke$ha
Song Year: 2009
Long before the social media app of the same name was cool, “Tik Tok” was solely a Ke$ha song.
it's hard to pinpoint what was going through the brazen singer's mind when she made this song, but we can't deny that it's definitely a karaoke superstar.
“Karma Chameleon” by Culture Club
Song Year: 1983
If you had to choose which decade had the best karaoke songs, what would you pick? While it's a clear battle between the '80s, '90s, and early '00s, we're going to have to give it to the '80s. With catchy earworms like “Karma Chameleon,” the other years certainly have trouble competing, especially when it comes to karaoke.
An honorable mention to the 70s as well. We love you just as much.
“Livin' La Vida Loca” by Ricky Martin
Song Year: 1999
Hey, it's that one song from Shrek 2! You know, the one Donkey was singing during the credits!
Alright, Ricky Martin's one-hit-wonder was much more than just that. It was, and still is, one of the most widespread 90's pop songs ever, and it delivers the energy when you're performing it. Try as you might; you can't get much more local than this.
“Rasputin” by Boney M.
Song Year: 1978
It's weird that an infamous Russian holy man makes for such a catchy song, but oddly enough, he does.
The only rule you have to abide by when using this song for karaoke night is that you have to do the dance along with it, with no exceptions. You know the one.
“Stayin' Alive” by Bee Gees
Song Year: 1977
A Saturday Night Fever classic and legendary disco bop, “Stayin' Alive” is amongst the most well-known American karaoke dance songs. Almost half a century later, you'll find few other artists that come close to being as iconic and as groovy as the Bee Gees were.
“Every Breath You Take” by The Police
Song Year: 1983
Remember when we said that the 80s had the best karaoke music? Well, this song is a testament to that. Through all the soft rock and experimental styles, nobody can charm a crowd quite like a song by The Police, so if you're trying to lighten the mood and bring forth the good times, then choose “Every Breath You Take.”
“All About That Base” by Meghan Trainor
Song Year: 2014
Sometimes, you just gotta take things back a notch and go with a happy-go-lucky, laid-back tune for your turn during karaoke night.
Not only is this charming little song great for giving your voice a much-needed break, but it's also a superb choice for a sing-a-long that pretty much everyone can get behind.
“Highway to Hell” by AC/DC
Song Year: 1979
“Highway to Hell” is a rock anthem ideal for karaoke. The iconic guitar riff will amp up the atmosphere as you prepare to push your vocals to their limits when the chorus comes.
Even decades after its release, the song remains widely popular and always makes for a great pick if you’re looking for something energetic and upbeat.
“Everybody Talks” by Neon Trees
Song Year: 2012
While this song is a bit underrated when it comes to karaoke, we can assure you that it's well worth adding to your queue. The vocals are satisfying to sing, and the progression of the song works well to create a high-energy, awe-inspiring atmosphere.
“Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys
Song Year: 2012
Think you've got what it takes to keep up with the powerful and majestic vocals of Alicia Keys? Then we dare you to take on “Girl on Fire” and show off your resounding voice to all your friends/family. If you can pull it off well, we can guarantee everyone who hears you will be impressed to the max.
Arguably, this song's up there with Adele and Celine Dion, though not quite Whitney Houston, who's on a whole other level.
“Final Countdown” by Europe
Song Year: 1986
Nothing speaks anticipation and massive chord progression like Europe's world-renowned “Final Countdown.” And yes, we're talking about the band, not the continent.
While we have yet to discover what we're counting down for, we can still enjoy the rockin' style of the Swedish rockers during karaoke at the bar.
“Pour Some Sugar on Me” by Def Leppard
Song Year: 1987
This song is the bomb! Whether you're cruising down the road in a car packed with friends or you're in a group setting in a karaoke room, there's always a good time to be had with “Pour Some Sugar on Me.”
Quick side note: this track is NOT a solo song. It's meant to be sung together, and if you try to go in solo, then you're a brave soul.
“Misery Business” by Paramore
Song Year: 2007
This song's got it all: sass, attitude, and rockin' guitars. Don't lie; you've probably had a phase where you were singing this song every day. Who could blame you? “Misery Business” was absolutely amazing during its time and still makes for a bangin' karaoke song, regardless of what year it is.
Don't deny your roots; return to Paramore!
“Built This City” by Starship
Song Year: 1985
Even if you, by chance, have never heard this song, you can tell it's from the 80s in the first couple of seconds. Maybe it's the background synthesizers or the funky electric guitar capo strumming, but we think it's the absurd degree of catchiness that the song exudes with each line that defines it as an 80s karaoke classic.
“I Love Rock n' Roll” by Joan Jett
Song Year: 1981
While relatively slow-paced compared to Joan Jett's other well-known track, “Bad Reputation,” it's this more laid-back melody that we think makes “I Love Rock n' Roll” the superior option during karaoke night. It'll have everyone singing along, and the beat makes it too easy to clap your hands.
Plus, who doesn't love a little “rebellious” energy here and there?
“Price Tag” by Jessie J
Song Year: 2011
It's the little interludes and the captivating bridge that make “Price Tag” ideal for singing and having some fun while doing so. It's a more chill song, which means you'll probably be singing it at the start or midway through your karaoke session, and it's a great way to keep the energy going while saving your voice.
“You're the One That I Want” by John Travolta And Olivia Newton-John
Song Year: 1978
There are two types of people: those who have seen Grease and those who have yet to see Grease.
For those who have, they have the luxury of singing “You're the One That I Want,” which is perfect if you have a partner to sing with. You'll probably want to practice a bit beforehand to get the timings right, but once you do, the song is all too addicting to sing.
“Can't Touch This” by M.C. Hammer
Song Year: 1990
In retrospect, M.C. Hammer might've been onto something. Few others have been able to bust a move like him, so, in a way, you really can't “touch this” as he did.
If you're up for a challenge, you can try to do the “Hammer time” dance during your turn; though, there's a good chance you'll be out of breath by the end.
“Stacy's Mom” by Fountains Of Wayne
Song Year: 2003
We can't lie, this song isn't for everyone, but if you've got the right crowd before you, they'll eat this one up like there's no tomorrow. It's a bit comical and a bit crude, but we can confidently say that it's always a hilarious blast to sing.
Just maybe not in front of your mother.
“Jump” by Van Halen
Song Year: 1984
We couldn't help ourselves from “jumping” at the chance to include Van Halen's “Jump” on our list.
Bad jokes aside, this tune is quaint and embedded in the hearts of millions. It's a surefire way to get all eyes on you during your turn and to get your audience just as invested in the act as you are.
“Waka Waka” by Shakira
Song Year: 2010
If you want to talk about addictive tunes, then Shakira has entered the chat with her 2010 hit, “Waka Waka.” It doesn't matter if you're a fan of Shakira or not; you've got to admit, this song has reached legendary status and is incredibly fun to sing along to.
Some of the lyrics might take some getting used to, but once you master them, you'll want to sing “Waka Waka” over and over again.
“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
Song Year: 2016
We said no repeat artists, but technically it's under Mark Ronson's name, so it's fine, right?
Disregarding loopholes, we can't lie when we say that this funky beat is a great way to lay down some smooth dance moves while you're singing. You always feel pretty cool while performing this song, so there's that too.
“YMCA” by Village People
Song Year: 1978
What happens when a cowboy, an Indian, a police officer, and a construction worker get together? You get one of the most well-known, memorable songs of all time that continues its legacy to the present day.
If you want to know the fastest way to unite a large group of people at once, just play this song and watch them instinctively put their hands in the air.
“Time of My Life” by Jennifer Warnes and Bill Medley
Song Year: 1987
With this iconic Dirty Dancing classic, you've got yourself another song that's prime real estate for a duet. Sure, you could try singing it alone, but everything's better with a friend, right?
Even if you've never seen the musical, you probably know a decent chunk of the lyrics, so what is there to lose? Nothing, that's what!
“We're Not Gonna Take It” by Twisted Sister
Song Year: 1984
We all know and love them; Twisted Sister has a number of karaoke-worthy songs, but we had to go with the rebel in each of us and choose “We're Not Gonna Take It.” Hopefully, you won't be shattering glass with your voice as they do in the original music video, but there's a good chance you'll come close.
“Your Love” by The Outfield
Song Year: 1985
Just one year after “We're Not Gonna Take It” was released, The Outfield produced this masterpiece, and it's been a pleasure to sing ever since. It's essential for all 80s playlists and won't soon be forgotten.
“Somebody That I Used To Know” by Gotye
Song Year: 2011
This band literally dropped one song and was virtually never seen again. We can't blame them, though. They created such a fun song to sing that it would be hard to live up to it and produce another hit that's just as good.
“Don't Go Breaking My Heart” by Elton John and Kiki Dee
Song Year: 1976
Here's another karaoke classic you just can't sing alone. “Don't Go Breaking My Heart” is as fun to sing as it is to listen to. You might not be able to replicate the charming voice of Elton John, but we assure you that it doesn't matter when you're singing and having the time of your life.
“Don't Speak” by No Doubt
Song Year: 1995
The rock bands of the 90s were the best of the best, and No Doubt was proof of that. If you want to take things slow and mesmerize everyone with some calming soft rock, then “Don't Speak” should be your go-to choice.
As the artist's name says, we have “no doubt” as we put this entry on our list.
“Lose Yourself” by Eminem
Song Year: 2002
If you'd like, you could try to impress everyone by attempting Eminem's song “Rap God,” but we think this one makes for a much more enjoyable experience during karaoke. “Lose Yourself” is much easier to perform and is always more of a crowd-pleaser than the latter.
“This Is How We Do It” by Montell Jordan
Song Year: 1995
A paragon of music when it comes to social gatherings and family-friendly parties, “This Is How We Do It” is the king of all get-together songs. Finding a song that everyone knows can be daunting at times, which is why you can't go wrong with this unforgettable '90s masterpiece.
“We Belong” by Pat Benatar
Song Year: 1984
“We Belong” by Pat Benatar is a power ballad with a catchy chorus that's easy to sing along to. The song's emotional lyrics and strong vocals allow for plenty of opportunities to show off your singing skills, making it a crowd-pleaser at any karaoke event.
“Can't Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
Song Year: 1961
And to end our list, we have a song by the king himself. “Can't Help Falling in Love” is a slow-paced, charming love song meant for capturing hearts and showing off your fantastic vocals. Perform this song as a closer at the end of the night and leave everyone with a warm, fuzzy feeling as they're going home.
Top Karaoke Songs Of All Time, Final Thoughts
These top karaoke songs provide a diverse range of options that appeal to different tastes and preferences. From timeless classics to modern hits, they are sure to get the party started and create a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved. So grab a microphone and sing your heart out to these fantastic karaoke tunes!
