Karaoke is a popular pastime that allows people to belt out their favorite songs and let loose with their vocal skills. For many, the best karaoke songs are those that are universally loved and easy to sing along to. For others, the perfect karaoke song is one that allows them to showcase their country music chops. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 19 country karaoke songs that are sure to get the party started. From classic hits by legends like Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash, to modern anthems by the likes of Luke Bryan and Miranda Lambert, this list has something for everyone. Whether you are a seasoned karaoke pro or a first-time singer, these songs will have you tapping your feet and singing along in no time. So, grab your cowboy hat and your favorite beverage, and get ready to hit the stage with these top country karaoke tunes.
1. Chicken Fried – Zac Brown Band
“Chicken Fried” is an upbeat country rock anthem that embodies the spirit of Southern living. The Zac Brown Band delivers a feel-good message about the simple pleasures in life, like family, friends, and a good meal. The catchy melody is driven by twangy guitar riffs, rollicking drums, and the band’s signature harmonies.
The lyrics pay homage to the joys of Southern culture, from sweet tea and front porch swings to blue jeans and pickup trucks. The song’s title refers to a classic Southern dish of fried chicken, which serves as a metaphor for the comfort and familiarity of home.
Throughout the song, the narrator reflects on his appreciation for his roots and the values he learned growing up. He celebrates the small-town way of life, where people look out for each other and take pride in their community. The song’s chorus is particularly infectious, with a sing-along refrain that encourages listeners to embrace the simple pleasures in life.
“Chicken Fried” has become a beloved classic in the country music canon, capturing the hearts of fans across generations. It’s a timeless reminder to slow down, savor life’s little moments, and always stay true to your roots.
2. Wagon Wheel – Darius Rucker
“Wagon Wheel” is a classic American folk-rock song that has become a staple in modern country music. Originally written by Bob Dylan and completed by Ketch Secor of the Old Crow Medicine Show, Darius Rucker’s version of the song brings a fresh energy and a soulful twist to the original.
The song is built around a simple, catchy melody that’s propelled by acoustic guitars, banjos, and fiddles. Rucker’s warm, inviting vocals add a layer of emotion and authenticity to the song’s nostalgic lyrics.
“Wagon Wheel” tells the story of a man traveling through the South, searching for his place in the world. Along the way, he meets a cast of colorful characters, including a hitchhiking hippie, a trucker, and a preacher. The song’s chorus is a catchy refrain that invites listeners to sing along and join in on the journey.
The song’s appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of the American spirit. It’s a celebration of freedom, adventure, and the open road. Rucker’s version of the song has become a beloved classic, inspiring countless covers and cementing its place as a timeless piece of Americana.
3. Tennessee Whiskey – Chris Stapleton
“Tennessee Whiskey” is a powerful ballad that showcases Chris Stapleton’s raw, soulful voice. The song’s slow, bluesy tempo and smooth instrumentation create a seductive atmosphere that perfectly complements the lyrics.
The song compares the narrator’s love for a woman to the rich, smooth taste of Tennessee whiskey. He sings about the way her love “warms him like a brandy” and “runs through his veins like a poison.” The lyrics are deeply emotional, capturing the intensity and passion of a true love affair.
Stapleton’s vocals are the true star of the song, delivering every line with a depth and sincerity that’s hard to match. The backing band provides a lush, full sound, with soaring guitar solos and sweeping strings that add to the song’s cinematic feel.
“Tennessee Whiskey” has become one of the most popular country songs in recent years, earning critical acclaim and winning multiple awards. Its timeless message of love and devotion, combined with Stapleton’s powerhouse vocals, make it a must-listen for any country music fan.
4. It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere – Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” is a fun and upbeat country song that celebrates the joy of letting loose and enjoying life. The collaboration between Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett brings together two legends of country and island music, creating a sound that’s both unique and infectious.
The song’s melody is driven by lively guitar riffs and catchy piano lines, while Jackson and Buffett’s vocals playfully trade off verses and harmonize on the chorus. The lyrics revolve around the idea that it’s always a good time to kick back and have a drink, no matter what time of day it is.
The song’s carefree spirit and playful lyrics have made it a staple at parties, bars, and beach gatherings around the world. It’s a reminder to live in the moment and not take life too seriously, while still cherishing the important things in life, like good friends and good times.
“It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” has become one of the most beloved country songs of all time, cementing its place as a classic feel-good anthem. Its irresistible energy and catchy chorus make it impossible not to sing along and get swept up in the good vibes.
5. That Don’t Impress Me Much – Shania Twain
“That Don’t Impress Me Much” is a sassy and empowering country-pop hit from the iconic Shania Twain. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy hooks are matched by Twain’s confident vocals and tongue-in-cheek lyrics.
The song’s opening line, “I’ve known a few guys who thought they were pretty smart,” sets the tone for a cheeky takedown of men who try too hard to impress. Twain sings about men with flashy cars, designer clothes, and big egos, declaring that none of it really matters to her.
The song’s chorus is an infectious earworm that’s impossible not to sing along to. Twain’s vocals soar over a blend of guitars and synths, delivering a message of self-assurance and independence.
“That Don’t Impress Me Much” has become one of Twain’s most iconic songs, earning critical acclaim and chart success. Its message of female empowerment and rejection of superficiality has resonated with audiences around the world, making it a timeless classic in the country-pop canon.
6. No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problem – Kenny Chesney
“No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problem” is a laid-back country hit from the king of beach vibes, Kenny Chesney. The song’s breezy melody and relaxed instrumentation create a carefree atmosphere that’s perfect for a day at the beach or a lazy afternoon with friends.
The song’s lyrics celebrate the simple pleasures of life, declaring that all you need is a little sunshine and a few good friends to be happy. Chesney sings about kicking back on the sand, sipping on a cold drink, and letting the worries of the world slip away.
The chorus is a catchy singalong that invites listeners to join in on the fun. Chesney’s vocals are warm and inviting, perfectly capturing the spirit of the song’s carefree message.
“No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problem” has become one of Chesney’s most beloved songs, inspiring countless beach parties and summer road trips. Its message of living in the moment and enjoying life’s simple pleasures has resonated with audiences around the world, making it a timeless classic in the country genre.
7. Cowboy, Take Me Away – Dixie Chicks
“Cowboy, Take Me Away” is a dreamy and romantic country ballad from the Dixie Chicks. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar and soaring harmonies create a beautiful, ethereal atmosphere that perfectly complements the lyrics.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman who longs to escape the stresses of everyday life and find refuge in the arms of a cowboy. The narrator sings about the freedom and peace she feels when she’s out in the open fields, surrounded by nature and her lover.
The chorus is a soaring and emotive declaration of love, with the Dixie Chicks’ harmonies blending together in perfect harmony. The song’s melody is unforgettable, with a sweeping beauty that captures the magic of falling in love.
“Cowboy, Take Me Away” has become one of the most beloved country ballads of all time, earning critical acclaim and chart success. Its message of love, freedom, and escape has resonated with audiences around the world, making it a timeless classic that’s still beloved today.
8. Down at Lah De Dah – Jimmy Buffett
“Down at Lah De Dah” is a fun and upbeat tropical rock song from the legendary Jimmy Buffett. The song’s energetic percussion and lively guitars create a sound that’s both infectious and easy to dance to.
The lyrics celebrate the joy of escaping to a tropical paradise, where the drinks are cold and the music is hot. Buffett sings about a place where worries are left behind, and the only thing that matters is having a good time.
The chorus is a catchy singalong that invites listeners to join in on the fun. Buffett’s vocals are playful and charismatic, perfectly capturing the spirit of the song’s carefree message.
“Down at Lah De Dah” is a classic Buffett song that captures the essence of the laid-back island lifestyle. Its message of escape and adventure has resonated with fans of all ages, making it a beloved addition to any tropical playlist.
9. Before He Cheats – Carrie Underwood
“Before He Cheats” is a fiery and empowering country hit from superstar Carrie Underwood. The song’s driving drums and electric guitars create a sound that’s both edgy and polished, perfectly complementing Underwood’s powerhouse vocals.
The lyrics tell the story of a woman who has been wronged by her cheating partner. Instead of wallowing in sadness or self-pity, she decides to take matters into her own hands and get revenge. Underwood sings about keying her partner’s car, slashing his tires, and generally wreaking havoc on his life.
The chorus is a defiant and catchy singalong that’s impossible not to sing along to. Underwood’s vocals are strong and fierce, perfectly capturing the spirit of the song’s message.
“Before He Cheats” has become one of Underwood’s most iconic songs, earning critical acclaim and chart success. Its message of female empowerment and taking control has resonated with audiences around the world, making it a timeless classic in the country-pop canon.
10. Chatahoochee – Alan Jackson
“Chattahoochee” is a rollicking and nostalgic country hit from the legendary Alan Jackson. The song’s driving tempo and twangy guitars create a sound that’s both energetic and classic, perfectly capturing the spirit of ’90s country music.
The lyrics celebrate the joys of growing up in a small town and spending lazy summer days on the banks of the Chattahoochee River. Jackson sings about learning to swim, falling in love for the first time, and generally having the time of his life.
The chorus is a catchy and memorable singalong that’s impossible not to tap your foot to. Jackson’s vocals are warm and inviting, perfectly capturing the spirit of the song’s carefree message.
“Chattahoochee” has become one of Jackson’s signature songs, earning critical acclaim and chart success. Its message of nostalgia and celebrating the simple joys of life has resonated with audiences around the world, making it a timeless classic in the country music canon.
11. All My Ex’s Live in Texas – George Strait
“All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is a classic country hit from the legendary George Strait. The song’s twangy guitars and lively tempo create a sound that’s both upbeat and timeless, perfectly capturing the spirit of ’80s country music.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who’s looking for love but can’t seem to find it because all of his exes live in Texas. Strait sings about traveling across the country in search of someone new, but no matter where he goes, he can’t escape the ghosts of his past relationships.
The chorus is a catchy and singable hook that’s impossible not to join in on. Strait’s vocals are smooth and effortless, perfectly capturing the laid-back spirit of the song’s message.
“All My Ex’s Live in Texas” has become one of Strait’s most beloved hits, earning critical acclaim and chart success. Its message of wry humor and the challenges of moving on has resonated with audiences around the world, making it a classic in the country music canon.
12. Jolene – Dolly Parton
“Jolene” is a hauntingly beautiful country ballad from the iconic Dolly Parton. The song’s sparse instrumentation and Parton’s delicate vocals create a sound that’s both intimate and powerful, perfectly capturing the heart-wrenching emotion of the lyrics.
The lyrics tell the story of a woman pleading with a beautiful woman named Jolene not to steal her man. Parton’s vocals are filled with desperation and vulnerability as she sings about her fear of losing the love of her life.
The chorus is a haunting and unforgettable melody that’s impossible not to get lost in. Parton’s vocals are raw and emotional, perfectly capturing the heartbreak and longing of the song’s message.
“Jolene” has become one of Parton’s most iconic and beloved songs, earning critical acclaim and chart success. Its message of love, jealousy, and desperation has resonated with audiences around the world, making it a timeless classic in the country music canon.
13. Friends in Low Places – Garth Brooks
“Friends in Low Places” is an iconic country anthem from the legendary Garth Brooks. The song’s driving tempo and twangy guitars create a sound that’s both energetic and classic, perfectly capturing the spirit of ’90s country music.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who’s been kicked out of a high society party and finds solace in his “friends in low places.” Brooks sings about drinking beer and causing a scene with his rough-and-tumble buddies, reveling in the freedom of being true to himself.
The chorus is a singable and unforgettable hook that’s impossible not to join in on. Brooks’ vocals are passionate and powerful, perfectly capturing the rebellious spirit of the song’s message.
“Friends in Low Places” has become one of Brooks’ most beloved hits, earning critical acclaim and chart success. Its message of embracing your true self and finding joy in unexpected places has resonated with audiences around the world, making it a timeless classic in the country music canon.
14. The Gambler – Kenny Rogers
“The Gambler” is a classic country hit from the late Kenny Rogers. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat tempo create a sound that’s both playful and timeless, perfectly capturing the spirit of ’70s country music.
The lyrics tell the story of a gambler giving advice to a young man on a train ride. Rogers sings about the importance of knowing when to hold ’em and when to fold ’em, and the wisdom that comes with experience.
The chorus is an unforgettable hook that’s become synonymous with the song’s message. Rogers’ vocals are smooth and confident, perfectly capturing the charm and wit of the song’s protagonist.
“The Gambler” has become one of Rogers’ most beloved hits, earning critical acclaim and chart success. Its message of living life to the fullest and learning from your mistakes has resonated with audiences around the world, making it a classic in the country music canon.
15. Take Me Home, Country Roads – John Denver
“Take Me Home, Country Roads” is a classic country-folk song from the iconic John Denver. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar and soothing vocals create a sound that’s both nostalgic and comforting, perfectly capturing the beauty of the West Virginia countryside that inspired the lyrics.
The lyrics tell the story of a man longing to return to his roots in the mountains of West Virginia. Denver sings about the winding roads, the blue ridge mountains, and the feeling of home that comes with being surrounded by nature.
The chorus is an unforgettable melody that’s become synonymous with the song’s message. Denver’s vocals are warm and inviting, perfectly capturing the sense of peace and contentment that comes with being in the country.
“Take Me Home, Country Roads” has become one of Denver’s most beloved hits, earning critical acclaim and chart success. Its message of finding solace and peace in the natural world has resonated with audiences around the world, making it a timeless classic in the country-folk canon.
16. Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper (from A Star is Born)
The song “Shallow” by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper from the 2018 film “A Star is Born” is a powerful ballad that showcases the incredible vocal talent of both artists. The song’s haunting piano melody and soaring chorus create a sound that’s both emotionally charged and deeply moving, perfectly capturing the heart-wrenching story of the film.
The lyrics tell the story of two people finding love and connection despite their personal struggles and fears. Gaga and Cooper’s vocals complement each other beautifully, creating a sense of vulnerability and raw emotion that’s impossible to ignore.
The chorus is an unforgettable hook that’s become synonymous with the song’s message. Gaga’s powerful vocals in the climax of the song is particularly notable and impressive, earning critical acclaim and chart success. The song earned several awards including an Academy Award, Golden Globe Award, and a Grammy Award, cementing its place as a modern classic.
17. Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
“Sweet Home Alabama” is a classic rock song from the iconic southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. The song’s memorable guitar riff and catchy chorus make it a timeless classic that’s become synonymous with the southern rock genre.
The lyrics are an ode to the band’s home state of Alabama, celebrating its beauty and charm while also referencing some of its controversial history. The chorus is an anthem-like refrain that’s impossible not to sing along to, making it a staple at parties and sporting events.
“Sweet Home Alabama” has become one of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s most beloved hits, earning critical acclaim and chart success. Its message of southern pride and celebration of the band’s roots has resonated with audiences around the world, making it a timeless classic in the rock canon.
18. Achy Breaky Heart – Billy Ray Cyrus
“Achy Breaky Heart” is a classic country song by Billy Ray Cyrus that was released in 1992. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and memorable chorus quickly made it a chart-topping hit that became a pop culture phenomenon.
The lyrics tell the story of a man trying to mend his broken heart after a failed relationship, using humorous and relatable language that resonated with listeners. The song’s catchy hook and line dance became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring dance parties and karaoke performances across the country.
Cyrus’ unique blend of country and rock elements in the song’s instrumentation helped to bring a new generation of fans to country music. “Achy Breaky Heart” remains one of the most popular and recognizable country songs of all time, cementing its place as a classic in the genre.
19. Drift Away – Dobie Gray
“Drift Away” is a soulful classic rock song by Dobie Gray that was released in 1972. The song’s smooth vocals, upbeat tempo, and catchy chorus make it a timeless classic that has remained popular for decades.
The lyrics speak to the power of music to transport and heal us, encouraging listeners to let go of their worries and drift away on a musical journey. The song’s message and catchy melody have made it a favorite for generations, with countless covers and samples over the years.
Gray’s soulful vocals and the song’s bluesy rock sound make it stand out in the crowded landscape of classic rock hits. “Drift Away” remains a beloved classic that continues to capture the hearts of music lovers around the world.
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.
