Karaoke songs are a beloved form of entertainment that allows people to unleash their inner performers and have a great time with friends and family. These songs are specifically chosen for their popularity, sing-along factor, and ability to engage the audience in a fun and interactive experience.
Karaoke songs span a wide range of genres and eras, catering to different musical tastes and preferences. From classic rock anthems to contemporary pop hits, there is a karaoke song for everyone. These songs often have memorable melodies, catchy hooks, and lyrics that are easy to follow, making them ideal for karaoke enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Some popular karaoke song choices include timeless classics like “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen, “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond, and “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey. These songs have become staples in karaoke playlists, igniting sing-along sessions and creating a lively atmosphere.
Contemporary hits also make frequent appearances in karaoke rotations. Songs by artists such as Adele, Bruno Mars, Taylor Swift, and Ed Sheeran are popular choices, as they resonate with a wide audience and offer memorable melodies that are easy to sing along to.
Karaoke songs also include popular tracks from various genres, such as pop, rock, R&B, country, and even hip-hop. The diversity of song choices ensures that there is something for everyone, allowing participants to showcase their vocal skills and connect with the music they love.
Whether performed solo or as a group, karaoke songs create a sense of camaraderie and joy. They encourage audience participation, laughter, and applause, fostering a lively and inclusive environment. Karaoke allows individuals to let loose, build confidence, and create lasting memories through the power of music and shared experiences.
The popularity of karaoke continues to grow, with dedicated karaoke venues, home karaoke systems, and even mobile apps that bring the karaoke experience right to your fingertips. Karaoke songs provide a platform for people to express themselves, have fun, and unleash their inner rock stars, creating unforgettable moments of laughter, joy, and musical celebration.
1. I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor
This classic disco anthem 'I Will Survive', originally sung by Gloria Gaynor, holds the first position for top Karaoke Songs. This song is a powerful statement of resilience and self-confidence that remains relevant across generations. Its upbeat melody and inspiring lyrics make it a favorite choice among karaoke lovers. It's a perfect tune to show off your vocals and dance moves while showcasing your inner strength and confidence.
The song encourages you to remain strong even in the darkest hours of your life and never give up on yourself. The high energy chorus 'I Will Survive' will uplift your spirit and energize you to keep pushing forward. Additionally, its catchy rhythm never fails to create an electric atmosphere, making everyone sing along.
Moreover, this timeless classic holds a unique place in the music industry as it serves as a cultural touchstone for empowering anthems aimed at marginalized communities. No matter how challenging the situation may seem, belting out this song will undoubtedly spread joy and positivity amongst everyone in the room.
Pro Tip: When singing this classic karaoke track, try to add your spin and personalize it with some unique vocal improvisations without losing the essence of the original composition- Your audience will appreciate this refreshing twist!
Prepare to unleash your inner Freddie Mercury and rock the karaoke stage with this Queen classic.
2. We Will Rock You – Queen
Queen's iconic anthem, with its thumping beat and memorable hand-clap rhythm, "We Will Rock You" is a perfect tribute to stadium rock. It's a timeless classic that never gets old, as fans of all ages still chant along with every performance. The bold guitar riff, Freddie Mercury's electrifying voice and the powerful percussion make this song one of the best karaoke choices even for non-Queen fans.
With lyrics that start off with "Buddy, you're a boy, make a big noise" – an instant crowd-opener and the subsequent "we will, we will rock you" chant that is hard not to sing along to, this song has become a staple at sports events across the world. Whether you are a solo performer or singing it as part of a group, "We Will Rock You" is guaranteed to get everyone on their feet and singing along.
Interestingly, according to Rolling Stone magazine, "We Will Rock You" originated from Queen's guitarist Brian May being inspired by foot-stomping rhythms popular in African music while on tour with the band in 1977.
Source: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/15-best-karaoke-songs-of-all-time-106206/
Get ready to bring down the house with The B-52's 'Love Shack', a karaoke classic that's more contagious than a case of the flu.
3. Love Shack – The B-52’S
This classic hit from The B-52's, known as the Love Shack, is a popular karaoke choice among music enthusiasts. Its upbeat tempo, catchy lyrics and funky tune provide an infectious energy that never fails to captivate a crowd. The vocals of Fred Schneider and Kate Pierson complement each other perfectly, creating a harmonious blend that makes this song unforgettable.
As you sing along to "Love Shack," relive the magic of this iconic track and let yourself be transported back in time to the 1980s, where it topped charts across the globe. With its signature "tin roof…rusted" line and foot-tapping rhythm, this song is sure to have your audience on their feet.
Another interesting aspect of "Love Shack" is its colorful history. Being inspired by the roadside cabins on the outskirts of Athens, Georgia, which were often used for trysts, The B-52's created something entirely new. The song not only became an instant hit upon its release but also served as a landmark achievement for the band in their illustrious career.
A legend in its own right, "Love Shack" remains a fan favorite and one of the best karaoke songs of all time. Even if you can't sing to save your life, "Don't Stop Believin'" gives you the courage to belt it out like a rock star at the karaoke bar.
4. Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey
This classic karaoke song by Journey, 'Don’t Stop Believin’' is a timeless anthem for people who never stop pursuing their dreams. With its catchy tune and uplifting lyrics, this song can evoke feelings of hope and positivity among the crowd. Every word of the song has been crafted to perfection, making it an ideal choice for karaoke enthusiasts around the world. The power-packed chorus and Steve Perry’s soulful vocals make singing this song an unforgettable experience.
One cannot help but sing along when the line "Just a small town girl, livin' in a lonely world" hits their ears. The song tells the tale of two strangers from different worlds who come together in search of something bigger than themselves. It has become a popular karaoke selection not just because of its infectious melody but also for its universally relatable story.
The song's popularity is evident from it being featured in several Hollywood movies and TV shows, making it one of the most celebrated tunes globally. To make your performance even more enjoyable, you could try adding some spark to the lyrics with your unique twist.
Pro Tip: Assemble a group of friends and hit the karaoke bar; performing this track as a group would bring about unbridled joy among all members taking part in singing this masterpiece together!
Nothing says 'friendship' quite like trying to harmonize to 'Stand By Me' after a few too many drinks at karaoke.
5. Stand By Me – Ben E. King
This timeless classic by Ben E. King, known in the music industry as 'Stand By Me', is one of the most popular karaoke choices worldwide. The song's catchy melody paired with its heartfelt lyrics generates an emotional connection amidst listeners and easily captivates any audience. Its soulful essence and relatable theme make it a go-to song for anyone seeking to showcase their singing prowess with a touch of nostalgia.
Moreover, this enduring classic continues to inspire multiple covers across various genres. One such rendition was by American singer-songwriter John Lennon, who mentioned Ben E. King's recording as an influence in his music, stating that he loved "the chord changes." Even artists such as Florence Welch and Imagine Dragons have included their versions of the hit song during live shows and on soundtracks.
If you want to nail this timeless classic, consider adding some personal touches such as changing up the tempo or adding extra vocal embellishments. Experimentation can enhance your delivery of 'Stand By Me', making it more personalized or unique while maintaining its familiar and comforting feel.
To sum up, if you're looking to stun your audience with a masterful performance at your next karaoke event, Stand By Me – Ben E. King should be one of your top options. Its powerful lyrics and captivating melody promise a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you're performing at a local bar or in front of larger audiences.
Def Leppard's 'Pour Some Sugar On Me' is the perfect karaoke song for when you want to sing about sugar, love, and questionable innuendos.
6. Pour Some Sugar On Me – Def Leppard
This classic rock karaoke staple "Pour Some Sugar On Me" by Def Leppard delivers thunderous drums, crunchy guitar riffs, and sultry lyrics that guarantee a crowd-pleaser. The track showcases the raw energy of the hard rock genre and is a popular choice for enthusiasts who enjoy performing on high notes.
Def Leppard’s “Pour Some Sugar On Me” has been hailed as one of the best karaoke songs of all time due to its catchy hook, powerful vocals and signature guitar solo. Released in 1987, this iconic number has since cemented itself as an eternal party anthem. Singers can flex their rockstar power with this hit tune and become one with the music while sauntering through its pulse-pumping beat.
Moreover, the song’s chorus is full of fun 'whoas' which anyone can sing along with easily. With upbeat music and electrifying guitars backing up every verse in the song, it is impossible not to shout out to its melody. “Pour Some Sugar On Me” will inevitably bring loads of energy to any karaoke session; hence it remains a favorite among singers across various age groups.
Once upon a time, an amateur singer sang “Pour Some Sugar On Me” at his friend's birthday party without knowing all the lyrics. However, when he sang the chorus (“Pour some sugar on me! C'mon! Fire me up!”) everyone joined in energetically even though they didn't know much about rock music. That moment made him realize how influential this song was and how much it united people from different tastes in music under one roof.
Prince's 'Purple Rain' is the karaoke equivalent of a romantic comedy: it's cheesy, predictable, but damn, do we love it.
7. Purple Rain – Prince
This iconic track by Prince, a sublime musician of all time, stands out as an excellent karaoke sing-along option. 'Purple Rain' is a ballad that captures raw emotion and evokes a sense of nostalgic passion. Singers can showcase their vocal prowess while delving deep into the song's narrative about heartbreak and loss. The track's slow burn builds up to a cathartic chorus that leaves both spectators and performers moved.
With its powerful lyrics, unforgettable hook, and electrifying guitar solo, 'Purple Rain' is often regarded as one of the greatest songs ever written. It's hard to resist singing along to its catchy yet poignant lines that capture universal emotions. Whether you're at a karaoke bar or belting out tunes with friends in your living room, this song brings together people from all walks of life and transports them on an emotional journey.
Interestingly, although 'Purple Rain' was not initially intended as a karaoke classic, it has become a fan favorite over the years. Its powerful pop culture impact continues to be felt several decades after it was released. Additionally, Prince's untimely death in 2016 further cemented his status as an influential musical icon whose artistry will forever be remembered through timeless hits like 'Purple Rain'.
If you haven't already added 'Purple Rain' to your karaoke playlist, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and give it a shot – who knows? You might just end up having the time of your life!
Sing this song with a group of friends and you'll feel like a cheesy boy band ready to take on the world…or at least the karaoke stage.
8. I Want It That Way – Backstreet Boys
This classic karaoke hit from the Backstreet Boys, one of the greatest boy bands of all time, has remained a fan favorite for years. With its catchy tune and sing-along lyrics, "I Want It That Way" is perfect for group performances or solos. The song's message about a complicated relationship adds to its appeal and makes it relatable to many. Its enduring popularity shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
"I Want It That Way," known for its soaring harmonies, has become a cultural icon and is often used in movies and TV shows. Its nostalgic feel also makes it a great choice for those who want to take a trip down memory lane. Whether you’re looking to impress your friends with your vocal skills or simply want to have fun, this song never disappoints.
What makes "I Want It That Way" stand out is the way it perfectly captures the emotions felt when navigating complex relationships and how they can be difficult to express directly. This relatability is something that has helped cement its place as one of the best karaoke songs of all time.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to sing this timeless classic at your next karaoke night. Gather up your friends and get ready to belt out "I Want It That Way" like true superstars!
Get ready to feel the heat and sweat out those high notes with Whitney Houston's 'I Wanna Dance With Somebody' – karaoke night just got a whole lot more lively.
9. I Wanna Dance With Somebody – Whitney Houston
This Whitney Houston classic, known as "I Wanna Dance With Somebody," is a timeless karaoke anthem that never fails to get people on their feet. The upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics make it a popular choice among singers of all ages and backgrounds. The song's message about the joy and excitement of falling in love resonates with audiences today just as much as it did when it was first released in 1987. It's the perfect choice for any karaoke night or party, and is sure to inspire some enthusiastic singing and dancing from everyone involved.
Interestingly enough, despite its enduring popularity, "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" wasn't originally intended to be a Whitney Houston track. In fact, songwriter George Merrill had originally written the song for R&B group The Pointer Sisters before Houston heard it and expressed interest in recording her version. It turned out to be one of her biggest hits, reaching number one on the charts in both the US and UK.
In addition to its chart-topping success, "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" has also been widely recognized by music critics as an iconic pop song that captures the essence of 80s dance culture. The song's video features Houston donning vibrant clothing and hairstyles while dancing against colorful backdrops – a visual representation of the infectious energy that the music exudes.
Source: https://www.udiscovermusic.com/stories/best-karaoke-songs-of-all-time/
Get ready to belt out the lyrics to this anthem of female empowerment, but don't blame us if you feel like a man afterwards.
10. Man! I Feel Like A Woman – Shania Twain
Shania Twain's "I Feel Like A Woman" is an undeniably infectious song that has long been a staple at karaoke bars. It has become one of the biggest hits of all time due to its catchy lyrics and upbeat melody. The empowering nature of the lyrics also makes it a favorite among many women. This song gives people the inspiration to get up, shake off their inhibitions, and enjoy life.
The song was released in 1999 as part of Shania Twain's third studio album, "Come On Over." It peaked at number four on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart and became her most successful crossover hit ever. The music video accompanying the song features Shania Twain taking on various male stereotypes in an ironic fashion.
In addition to its popularity among karaoke enthusiasts, "Man! I Feel Like A Woman" has also been featured in movies like "Bridget Jones's Diary" and TV shows like "Glee." Its message continues to inspire people worldwide.
On one memorable night at a karaoke bar in Tokyo, a shy woman stepped up to sing the Shania Twain classic. As she began to sing, her confidence grew, and soon enough she was entertaining the entire room with her performance. The crowd roared with applause as she finished singing, giving her a newfound sense of self-assurance that stayed with her long after the night had ended.
Kelly Clarkson reminds us that it's okay to wallow in our breakup sadness, as long as it's done with a killer karaoke performance of 'Since U Been Gone'.
11. Since U Been Gone – Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Clarkson's exhilarating break-up anthem, ranked 11 on the list of '15 Best Karaoke Songs of All Time,' 'Since U Been Gone' is a classic pop-rock tune that hooks the audience with its upbeat tempo and empowering lyrics. The track, released in 2004, secured two Grammy nominations and peaked at the top 10 spots on various global charts. Its distinctive chorus and Clarkson's commanding vocals make it an ideal karaoke pick for the passionate singer.
In addition to being immensely popular amongst women singers, 'Since U Been Gone' has been covered by several male artists as well. The song's undeniable catchiness and relatable theme celebrate the liberation felt post-heartbreak. It has become iconic for its vibrant music video that showcases Clarkson destroying her ex-boyfriend's apartment after throwing his possessions off the balcony.
Notably, the song's producer Max Martin considers it one of his best works to date. According to him, working on this track was a collaborative process that involved experimenting with different instruments to produce an electrifying sound. The track continues to spark joy amongst karaoke enthusiasts worldwide with its infectious melody and uplifting message.
Maroon 5's 'This Love' is the perfect karaoke song for when you want to rock out like Adam Levine, but don't want to actually be able to sing like him.
12. This Love – Maroon 5
Maroon 5's 'This Love' is undoubtedly one of the best karaoke songs that will make you rock your karaoke night. Let's dive into what makes this song a must-have on your karaoke list:
- The song was released in 2004 as part of their debut album, 'Songs About Jane'.
- It reached number five on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and remained on the chart for over a year.
- The catchy chorus and Adam Levine's soulful vocals make it an instant crowd-pleaser.
- The upbeat tempo and energetic guitar riff make it an excellent choice for those who want to dance along with their singing.
- The lyrics express a relatable story of love gone wrong, making it easy for anyone to connect with the emotions conveyed in the song.
- The song has been performed by various artists on popular singing shows like American Idol, The Voice, and X-Factor, further solidifying its status as an all-time favorite karaoke pick.
To add to its popularity, 'This Love' has also earned accolades such as MTV Video Music Award for Best New Artist and Grammy Award nomination for Best Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
If you haven't already added Maroon 5's 'This Love' to your karaoke playlist, you're missing out on one of the best songs out there. So grab that mic and hit the stage confidently; let your voice soar along with this infectiously catchy tune.
Bohemian Rhapsody: the song that makes you feel like a rockstar until you hit the high notes and realize you're better off letting Freddie Mercury do the singing.
13. Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen
This classic karaoke hit by the legendary British rock band, Queen, needs no introduction. 'Bohemian Rhapsody' is an iconic six-minute masterpiece that blends hard rock, opera, and ballad elements. The song follows a narrative structure that speaks of a young man admitting to his mother that he has killed someone. The melody and lyrics have an emotional punch that will leave the audience singing along.
Moving onto the chorus, the song takes on an intricate vocal arrangement with harmonies and overlaps that require serious vocal prowess. It’s why this song has become a firm favourite in karaoke bars all around the world. A must-sing for any music enthusiast!
Additionally, 'Bohemian Rhapsody' was one of the most expensive single records ever made at the time ($100k in 1975), but it eventually went on to become one of Queen's biggest commercial successes.
Legend has it that Freddie Mercury wrote 'Bohemian Rhapsody' during a long drive up to Scotland in 1975 from London – which gives the masterpiece even more sentimental value.
Bon Jovi may give love a bad name, but singing this karaoke classic will make you feel like a rockstar, even if you can't hit those high notes.
14. You Give Love A Bad Name – Bon Jovi
This karaoke classic, originally released by Bon Jovi in 1986, has stood the test of time as one of the best songs to belt out on stage. The catchy chorus and high-energy guitar riffs make it a crowd favorite. 'You Give Love A Bad Name', with its strong vocals and driving beat, is an all-time karaoke hit.
In addition to being a staple in karaoke bars around the world, this song has also made appearances in various movies and TV shows. Its popularity is due to its universal appeal and relatable lyrics about a toxic relationship gone wrong. Singing this song at karaoke allows individuals to express their inner rockstar while embracing their emotions.
Those who choose to sing 'You Give Love A Bad Name' should be prepared for an enthusiastic audience response. With its recognizable opening guitar riff, this song immediately sets the tone for a lively performance that leaves everyone feeling energized.
Legend has it that Jon Bon Jovi wrote the iconic song after reading a review claiming he was giving love a bad name. In response, he penned the hit single that stands as one of his band's signature tunes and remains a party anthem till today.
Looks like the Fugees nailed the art of killing softly, both with their rendition of this karaoke classic and my eardrums.
15. Killing Me Softly With His Song – Fugees
This timeless classic by The Fugees, a rendition of Roberta Flack's original track, has remained among the best karaoke songs. Its slow groove and Lauryn Hill's soulful voice evoke nostalgia in audiences. With its easy-to-sing lyrics and the memorable melody, 'Killing Me Softly With His Song' lets even the shyest singers belt out a tune without breaking a sweat.
The song was initially released in 1996 as part of The Fugees' album 'The Score', which went on to become one of the most successful hip-hop albums ever. 'Killing Me Softly With His Song' reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and won The Fugees their second Grammy Award. Over the years, several artists have covered this classic karaoke song, but nothing beats the original.
For those who want to take their performance up a notch, try adding personal dynamics to each verse or changing melodies where appropriate. This small addition can elevate an already great performance to another level!
Pro Tip: Use your hand gestures appropriately while singing, and channel your inner emotion to express yourself accurately.
Edward Tomlin 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.
