Baritones have long been a staple of music, providing depth and richness to various genres. From the smooth and soulful crooners of the 1950s and 1960s to the powerful rock vocalists of today, baritones have had a significant impact on the music industry. In this article, we’ll be exploring the top 30 songs that showcase the incredible range and versatility of this vocal range. From classic ballads to up-tempo rock anthems, these songs demonstrate the emotional depth and soulful power that baritones can bring to a performance. Whether you’re a longtime fan of baritones or just discovering the magic of this unique vocal range, this article is the perfect guide to some of the best baritone-led songs of all time. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be enchanted by the powerful, soulful sounds of the top 30 songs about baritones.
1. “Stars” by Les Miserables
“Stars” is a powerful and emotional song from the stage musical Les Misérables. The song is sung by the character Javert, a police inspector, and showcases his inner turmoil and conflict as he grapples with his perceptions of justice and morality. With its lush baritone vocals and soaring melodies, “Stars” is a standout moment in the Les Misérables score, capturing the intense drama and high stakes of the show. The lyrics, which reflect on the idea of destiny and the guiding force of the stars, are both introspective and haunting, making “Stars” a timeless and unforgettable song.
2. “Fight the Dragons” by Big Fish
“Fight the Dragons” is a song by Big Fish that showcases the powerful and soulful voice of the lead singer. With its driving rhythm and anthemic chorus, this song is a showcase of the baritone vocal range. The lyrics tell a story of overcoming obstacles and facing challenges head on, with a message of determination and perseverance. The baritone vocals add a sense of weight and gravitas to the song, lending it an air of confidence and strength. Whether you’re a fan of musical theater or just appreciate powerful vocals, “Fight the Dragons” is sure to be a standout track in your collection.
3. “Before The Summer Ends” by Dracula
“Before The Summer Ends” by Dracula is a haunting and emotional ballad that showcases the powerful vocals of the lead baritone singer. The song is set against a haunting and ethereal backdrop of atmospheric sounds, creating an eerie and melancholic mood. The lyrics tell a story of love and loss, capturing the deep emotions of the baritone voice as it sings about the end of summer and the sorrow of saying goodbye. This song is perfect for listeners who appreciate the depth and emotional power of the baritone voice, and its ability to convey the deepest of human emotions through song.
4. “The Kid Inside” by Is There Life After High School?
“The Kid Inside” by Is There Life After High School? is a powerful ballad that explores the theme of nostalgia and growing up. Featuring a soaring baritone voice, the song transports listeners back to their childhood as it tells the story of a person who longs for the simpler days of their past. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who is looking back at their life and realizing how much they have changed and how much they have lost along the way. The song’s emotional performance and beautiful melody make it a standout piece in any baritone vocalist’s repertoire.
5. “Gold Can Turn to Sand” by Kristina
“Gold Can Turn to Sand” is a powerful ballad sung by Kristina. The song explores the theme of the fleeting nature of success and wealth, as the singer reflects on how easily it can slip through one’s fingers. With deep, rich baritone vocals, Kristina conveys a sense of regret and longing as she sings about the importance of cherishing what one has and finding happiness in the present moment. The song’s haunting melody and melancholic lyrics are sure to resonate with listeners who have experienced the ups and downs of life. With its powerful vocal performance and thought-provoking message, “Gold Can Turn to Sand” is a standout track in the world of baritone-led music.
6. “Here for You” by 9 to 5
“Here for You” is a song from the musical “9 to 5”. It features the baritone voice of the lead male character, expressing his unwavering support and love to the lead female character. The song showcases the rich, deep, and soulful tone of the baritone voice, creating a warm and comforting atmosphere. With its powerful and emotional lyrics, the baritone voice conveys the message of love and support, creating an impactful moment in the musical. The song highlights the versatility of the baritone voice and showcases the wide range of emotions it can convey, making it an important piece in the world of musical theater.
7. “Don’t Let Me Go” by Shrek
“Don’t Let Me Go” is a song from the soundtrack of the popular animated film “Shrek.” It is a slow, emotional ballad sung by the lead character Shrek, voiced by Mike Myers. The song expresses Shrek’s feelings of love and fear as he grapples with the idea of letting go of his beloved Fiona, voiced by Cameron Diaz.
The melody is haunting and tender, with soft piano chords and a gentle string section accompanying Shrek’s heartfelt vocals. The lyrics are simple and straightforward, conveying the depth of Shrek’s emotions as he pleads with Fiona not to leave him. The song is a poignant moment in the film, highlighting the love and vulnerability that lies beneath Shrek’s gruff exterior.
Throughout the song, the audience can hear the raw emotion in Shrek’s voice as he sings of his fear of being alone, and his hope that Fiona will stay by his side. The chorus is particularly powerful, with Shrek singing “Don’t let me go, don’t you dare let me go,” a line that is sure to bring a tear to the eye of even the most stoic listener.
Overall, “Don’t Let Me Go” is a beautiful and touching song that perfectly captures the heart of the film and its central love story.
8. “In Every Age” by Titanic
“In Every Age” is a song from the soundtrack of the iconic film “Titanic.” It is a haunting and emotional piece that serves as a musical motif throughout the film, representing the timeless and universal themes of love, loss, and the human experience.
The song is performed by the legendary Irish singer-songwriter, Enya, and features her signature ethereal vocals and lush, atmospheric instrumentation. The melody is haunting and soaring, building to a powerful crescendo that captures the grandeur and drama of the film’s epic story.
The lyrics, while not overly specific to the film’s narrative, nonetheless convey the emotional journey of the characters and their struggle against the forces of fate and circumstance. The lines “In every age, in every place, the dreams of love live on” and “Through joy and through tears, love conquers all fears” are especially poignant and speak to the timeless nature of the film’s central love story.
Throughout the film, “In Every Age” is used to great effect, heightening the emotional impact of key scenes and helping to create a sense of grandeur and timelessness. Its simple and straightforward message of love and hope is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of cherishing the ones we love.
Overall, “In Every Age” is a beautiful and moving song that has become synonymous with the film “Titanic” and remains an iconic piece of movie music to this day.
9. “You’re Welcome” by Moana
“You’re Welcome” is a catchy and upbeat song from the Disney movie “Moana”. The song is performed by the character Maui, voiced by Dwayne Johnson, and features a lively, tropical-inspired rhythm. The lyrics are sung in a playful, lighthearted manner and express Maui’s appreciation for the island of Motunui and its inhabitants, who he sees as the source of his power and strength. With its upbeat, infectious melody, “You’re Welcome” is sure to get stuck in your head and bring a smile to your face. The song is a fun and celebratory tribute to the beauty and strength of island life, and the upbeat, cheerful tone is sure to get you tapping your feet and singing along. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or simply appreciate a good, feel-good song, “You’re Welcome” is sure to be a hit!
10. “Sailing” by A New Brain
“Sailing” is a beautiful and emotional ballad from the musical “A New Brain”. The song is a solo number performed by the lead character, Gordon Schwinn, as he reflects on his life and struggles with a rare illness. The lyrics are poignant and introspective, touching on themes of love, hope, and the uncertain journey of life. The melody is haunting and beautiful, building to a powerful crescendo as Gordon declares his determination to live life to the fullest, no matter what challenges he may face. The song is a powerful and moving tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, and is sure to resonate with listeners who have faced their own struggles or challenges in life. Whether you’re a fan of musical theater or simply appreciate a well-written song, “Sailing” is sure to be a touching and memorable musical experience.
11. “No Other Way” by Tarzan
“No Other Way” is a heartfelt and emotional song from the Disney animated film “Tarzan”. The song is performed by Phil Collins and serves as the film’s love theme, capturing the developing romantic relationship between Tarzan and Jane. The lyrics are tender and expressive, capturing the feelings of longing and uncertainty that accompany new love. The melody is soft and beautiful, with a gentle, lulling rhythm that emphasizes the song’s emotional depth. “No Other Way” is a touching and memorable love song that is sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and sentimentality for those who have experienced the joys and uncertainties of new love. Whether you’re a fan of the film or simply appreciate a well-written love song, “No Other Way” is a timeless classic that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
12. “Yesterday, Tomorrow And Today” by Women On The Verge Of A Nervous Breakdown
“Yesterday, Tomorrow, and Today” is a lively and energetic number from the musical “Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown”. The song is a playful, upbeat ensemble piece that captures the frenetic energy of the show’s madcap, screwball plot. The lyrics are clever and witty, capturing the frenzied pace of the characters’ lives as they navigate love, work, and the challenges of modern city life. The melody is fast-paced and infectious, with a lively Latin beat that is sure to get your feet tapping. “Yesterday, Tomorrow, and Today” is a fun and exciting musical number that is sure to leave you feeling energized and entertained. Whether you’re a fan of musical theater or simply appreciate a well-written, upbeat song, “Yesterday, Tomorrow, and Today” is a musical highlight that is sure to be a hit!
13. “When Words Fail” by Shrek
“When Words Fail” is a moving and emotional ballad from the DreamWorks animated film “Shrek”. The song is performed by Shrek and Fiona as they reflect on their changing relationship and the challenges they face as they begin to fall in love. The lyrics are tender and expressive, capturing the joys and fears of falling in love, and the difficulty of expressing one’s true feelings. The melody is soft and beautiful, with a gentle, flowing rhythm that emphasizes the song’s emotional depth. “When Words Fail” is a touching and memorable love song that is sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and sentimentality for those who have experienced the joys and uncertainties of new love. Whether you’re a fan of the film or simply appreciate a well-written love song, “When Words Fail” is a timeless classic that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
14. “It Takes Two” by Hairspray
“It Takes Two” is a lively and upbeat duet from the musical “Hairspray”. The song is performed by the characters Tracy Turnblad and Link Larkin as they navigate the ups and downs of their blossoming relationship. The lyrics are playful and energetic, capturing the excitement and uncertainty of young love. The melody is fast-paced and infectious, with a lively rock ‘n’ roll beat that is sure to get your feet tapping. “It Takes Two” is a fun and energetic musical number that is sure to leave you feeling uplifted and entertained. Whether you’re a fan of musical theater or simply appreciate a well-written, upbeat song, “It Takes Two” is a musical highlight that is sure to be a hit!
15. “Purpose” by Avenue Q
“Purpose” is a song from the musical “Avenue Q.” It’s a lighthearted, upbeat number that explores the themes of finding one’s purpose in life and the challenges that come with it. The song is sung by the character of Princeton, who is searching for his place in the world. The lyrics are witty and humorous, and the melody is catchy and memorable. The song is accompanied by lively music, with a lively piano and cheerful horns that create a joyful, upbeat atmosphere. Throughout the song, Princeton grapples with questions of identity, self-discovery, and the meaning of life, ultimately coming to the realization that finding one’s purpose takes time and effort. “Purpose” is a charming, entertaining tune that will leave audiences humming along and feeling inspired to find their own purpose in life.
16. “Ease On Down The Road” by The Wiz
“Ease on Down the Road” is a song from the musical “The Wiz.” It’s a fun and upbeat number that is sung by the main characters, Dorothy and her friends, as they embark on a journey to find their way home. The song is a celebration of the adventure and excitement of setting out on a new journey, and it encourages the characters to keep moving forward despite any challenges they may encounter. The melody is lively and upbeat, with a strong beat and catchy chorus that is easy to sing along to. The instrumentation is also lively, featuring a lively rhythm section and a fun, upbeat horn section that adds to the energetic feel of the song. Throughout the song, the characters sing about the thrill of the journey ahead and the importance of staying positive and focused, even when the road is long and difficult. “Ease on Down the Road” is a joyful and infectious tune that will have audiences tapping their feet and singing along in no time.
17. “Me” by Beauty And The Beast
“Me” is a song from the musical “Beauty and the Beast.” It’s a ballad sung by the character of Gaston, the self-absorbed and egocentric antagonist of the story. The song is a showcase of Gaston’s overconfident and narcissistic personality, as he sings about his own greatness and the admiration he receives from those around him. The melody is grand and sweeping, with a strong beat that accentuates Gaston’s larger-than-life personality. The instrumentation is rich and orchestral, featuring a full orchestra that highlights the grandiose nature of the song. Throughout the number, Gaston sings about his physical prowess, his popularity, and his superiority over others, ultimately declaring himself the “best man in town.” “Me” is a dynamic and powerful ballad that perfectly captures the character of Gaston and his overblown ego. It’s a humorous and entertaining tune that will have audiences laughing and singing along.
18. “I Rise Again” by On the Twentieth Century
“I Rise Again” is a song from the musical “On the Twentieth Century.” It’s a powerful ballad sung by the character of Oscar Jaffe, a flamboyant and egotistical theatrical producer who is determined to make a comeback in the entertainment industry. The song is a declaration of Oscar’s resilience and his unwavering determination to succeed, despite the many obstacles and setbacks he has faced. The melody is grand and anthemic, with a strong beat that drives the song forward and a soaring chorus that showcases Oscar’s confidence and determination. The instrumentation is lush and orchestral, featuring a full orchestra that supports the grandiose nature of the song. Throughout the number, Oscar sings about his resilience, his unwavering spirit, and his ability to rise again no matter what challenges he faces. “I Rise Again” is a triumphant and inspiring tune that perfectly captures the character of Oscar and his indomitable spirit. It’s a dynamic and energetic song that will leave audiences feeling uplifted and inspired.
19. “Joey, Joey, Joey” by The Most Happy Fella
“Joey, Joey, Joey” is a song from the musical “The Most Happy Fella.” It’s a lively and upbeat number that is sung by the character of Cleo, a waitress who has fallen in love with the lead character, Tony. The song is a celebration of her love for Tony, and it expresses her excitement and happiness at the prospect of being with him. The melody is catchy and infectious, with a strong beat and a lively rhythm that is easy to dance to. The instrumentation is also lively, featuring a lively piano and cheerful horns that create a joyful, upbeat atmosphere. Throughout the song, Cleo sings about her love for Tony, expressing her admiration and affection in a lighthearted and humorous manner. “Joey, Joey, Joey” is a charming and entertaining tune that will leave audiences feeling happy and uplifted.
20. “Taking A Chance On Love” by Cabin in the Sky
“Taking a Chance on Love” is a song from the musical “Cabin in the Sky.” It’s a lighthearted and upbeat number that is sung by the character of Petunia, a sassy and confident woman who is encouraging the lead character to take a chance on love. The song is a celebration of the joys and rewards of taking risks in love and life, and it encourages the lead character to embrace love and all its uncertainties. The melody is lively and infectious, with a strong beat and a lively rhythm that is easy to dance to. The instrumentation is also lively, featuring a lively piano and cheerful horns that create a joyful, upbeat atmosphere. Throughout the song, Petunia sings about the importance of taking a chance on love and the rewards that come with it. “Taking a Chance on Love” is a charming and entertaining tune that will leave audiences feeling inspired and ready to take a chance on love.
21. “Yankee Boy” by Rags
“Yankee Boy” is a song from the musical “Rags.” It’s a lively and upbeat number that is sung by the character of Bella, a poor immigrant who has arrived in America with her son. The song is a celebration of Bella’s newfound freedom and the opportunities that America offers, and it expresses her excitement and hope for the future. The melody is catchy and infectious, with a strong beat and a lively rhythm that is easy to dance to. The instrumentation is also lively, featuring a lively piano and cheerful horns that create a joyful, upbeat atmosphere. Throughout the song, Bella sings about the joys and opportunities of being in America and the bright future that lies ahead. “Yankee Boy” is a charming and entertaining tune that will leave audiences feeling inspired and ready to embrace the future with hope and optimism.
22. “If I Can’t Love Her” by Beauty and the Beast
“If I Can’t Love Her” is a song from the musical “Beauty and the Beast.” It’s a poignant and emotional ballad sung by the character of the Beast, who is grappling with his feelings for Belle and the curse that has transformed him into a monster. The song is a heart-wrenching expression of the Beast’s fear that he will never be able to win Belle’s love and be released from his curse. The melody is slow and mournful, with a tender and expressive vocal performance that captures the Beast’s pain and longing. The instrumentation is sparse and intimate, featuring a gentle piano and strings that support the emotional tone of the song. Throughout the number, the Beast sings about his love for Belle, his fear of rejection, and his desperation to break the curse and be reunited with her. “If I Can’t Love Her” is a moving and powerful ballad that perfectly captures the Beast’s inner turmoil and his deep love for Belle. It’s a touching and emotional tune that will resonate with audiences and leave them feeling moved and inspired.
23. “Smile” by Modern Times
“Smile” is a song from the musical “Modern Times.” It’s a lighthearted and upbeat number that encourages the characters to find joy and happiness in the midst of difficult times. The song is a celebration of the power of a smile and the impact it can have on those around us, and it encourages the characters to spread joy and positivity wherever they go. The melody is catchy and infectious, with a strong beat and a lively rhythm that is easy to dance to. The instrumentation is also lively, featuring a lively piano and cheerful horns that create a joyful, upbeat atmosphere. Throughout the song, the characters sing about the importance of smiling and spreading joy, and they encourage each other to find happiness in the face of adversity. “Smile” is a charming and entertaining tune that will leave audiences feeling inspired and ready to spread joy and positivity wherever they go.
24. ” Loneliness Of Evening” by Cinderella
“Loneliness of Evening” is a song from the musical “Cinderella.” It’s a slow and melancholy ballad that expresses the title character’s feelings of loneliness and isolation. The song is a poignant and emotional expression of Cinderella’s longing for companionship and her longing for someone to share her life with. The melody is tender and expressive, with a soft and gentle vocal performance that perfectly captures Cinderella’s feelings of sadness and loneliness. The instrumentation is sparse and intimate, featuring a gentle piano and strings that support the
25. “At Night She Comes Home to Me” by Baby
“At Night She Comes Home to Me” is a song from the musical “Baby.” It’s a tender and emotional ballad sung by the character of Danny, who is expressing his love and devotion for his wife, Lizzie. The song is a celebration of the joy and comfort that Danny finds in his relationship with Lizzie, and it expresses his deep appreciation for her. The melody is slow and mournful, with a tender and expressive vocal performance that perfectly captures Danny’s feelings of love and devotion. The instrumentation is sparse and intimate, featuring a gentle piano and strings that support the emotional tone of the song. Throughout the number, Danny sings about the comfort and joy that Lizzie brings to his life, and he expresses his love for her in a heartfelt and sincere way. “At Night She Comes Home to Me” is a moving and powerful ballad that perfectly captures the deep and abiding love that exists between Danny and Lizzie. It’s a touching and emotional tune that will resonate with audiences and leave them feeling moved and inspired.
26. “Being Alive” by Company
“Being Alive” is a song from the musical “Company.” It’s a powerful and emotional ballad sung by the character of Bobby, who is grappling with the complexities of relationships and the meaning of life. The song is a passionate and introspective expression of Bobby’s struggles with commitment and his search for fulfillment. The melody is intense and expressive, with a strong vocal performance that captures Bobby’s internal turmoil and emotional journey. The instrumentation is dramatic and dynamic, with a sweeping string section and driving percussion that create a sense of energy and momentum. Throughout the number, Bobby sings about the challenges of being alive, the longing for connection, and the quest for meaning. “Being Alive” is a powerful and moving ballad that perfectly captures the emotional journey of its central character. It’s a stirring and emotional tune that will resonate with audiences and leave them feeling inspired and empowered.
27. “Put on a Happy Face” by Bye Bye Birdie
“Put on a Happy Face” is a song from the musical “Bye Bye Birdie.” It’s a lively and upbeat number that encourages the characters to put aside their worries and troubles, and to focus on the positive things in life. The song is a celebration of the power of a smile and the impact it can have on those around us, and it encourages the characters to spread joy and positivity wherever they go. The melody is catchy and infectious, with a strong beat and a lively rhythm that is easy to dance to. The instrumentation is also lively, featuring bright brass and cheerful percussion that create a festive and joyful atmosphere. Throughout the song, the characters sing about the importance of smiling and spreading joy, and they encourage each other to find happiness in the face of adversity. “Put on a Happy Face” is a charming and entertaining tune that will leave audiences feeling inspired and ready to spread joy and positivity wherever they go.
28. “Let’s Go Fly A Kite” by Mary Poppins
“Let’s Go Fly a Kite” is a song from the musical “Mary Poppins.” It’s an upbeat and cheerful tune that encourages the characters to leave their worries behind and embrace the joys of childhood. The song is a celebration of adventure and the beauty of nature, and it encourages the characters to explore and enjoy the world around them. The melody is light and playful, with a bright and upbeat rhythm that is easy to sing along to. The instrumentation is also joyful, featuring bright brass and cheerful percussion that create a festive and upbeat atmosphere. Throughout the song, the characters sing about the joys of flying a kite, and they encourage each other to embrace their inner child and enjoy the world around them. “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” is a charming and uplifting tune that will leave audiences feeling inspired and ready to embrace their own inner child. It’s a lively and entertaining song that is sure to bring a smile to listeners’ faces.
29. “They Live in You” by The Lion King
“They Live in You” is a song from the musical “The Lion King.” It’s a powerful and emotional number that explores the connection between generations and the legacy of those who came before us. The song is a celebration of the spirit and wisdom of ancestors, and it encourages the characters to embrace their heritage and the traditions of their people. The melody is haunting and expressive, with a strong vocal performance that captures the emotional intensity of the lyrics. The instrumentation is also dramatic, featuring sweeping strings and percussion that create a sense of awe and reverence. Throughout the song, the characters sing about the power of the ancestors and the wisdom they pass down to future generations. “They Live in You” is a moving and powerful ballad that perfectly captures the essence of the “The Lion King.” It’s a stirring and emotional tune that will resonate with audiences and leave them feeling inspired and empowered.
30. “A Fellow Needs A Girl” by Allegro
“A Fellow Needs a Girl” is a song from the musical “Allegro.” It’s a charming and upbeat number that celebrates the joys of love and companionship. The song is a celebration of the importance of finding someone to share your life with, and it encourages the characters to embrace their romantic feelings and pursue the people they love. The melody is light and playful, with a bright and cheerful rhythm that is easy to dance to. The instrumentation is also joyful, featuring bright brass and cheerful percussion that create a festive and upbeat atmosphere. Throughout the song, the characters sing about the joys of being in love and the importance of having someone by your side. “A Fellow Needs a Girl” is a fun and uplifting tune that will leave audiences feeling inspired and ready to embrace the people they love. It’s a charming and entertaining song that is sure to bring a smile to listeners’ faces.
Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
