Karaoke has been a beloved pastime for decades, bringing people together to sing their hearts out and have a great time. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a nervous newcomer, having the right song can make all the difference. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 15 best karaoke songs of all time. These timeless classics are sure to get the crowd singing along and create an unforgettable karaoke experience.
1. “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
“I Will Survive” is the ultimate karaoke anthem of empowerment and resilience. Gloria Gaynor’s disco classic has been inspiring singers and audiences alike since its release in 1978. The song’s powerful lyrics, coupled with its infectious beat, make it a perfect choice for anyone looking to showcase their vocal prowess and stage presence. Whether you’re celebrating a personal triumph or simply looking to get the party started, “I Will Survive” is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its timeless message of overcoming adversity and emerging stronger than ever resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring that this song will remain a karaoke staple for generations to come.
2. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey
Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” is a rock classic that has become a karaoke favorite thanks to its soaring vocals, memorable piano intro, and uplifting lyrics. Released in 1981, the song tells the story of a small-town girl and a city boy chasing their dreams in a world full of uncertainty. Its themes of hope, perseverance, and the power of believing in oneself have struck a chord with audiences worldwide. The song’s epic chorus is perfect for group sing-alongs, making it a popular choice for karaoke nights. Whether you’re a seasoned singer or a first-time performer, “Don’t Stop Believin'” is sure to get the crowd on their feet and singing along.
3. “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond
Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” is a feel-good classic that has been a karaoke favorite for decades. Released in 1969, the song’s catchy melody, simple lyrics, and upbeat tempo make it easy for anyone to sing along. The song’s iconic “bah, bah, bah” refrain has become a beloved singalong moment, encouraging audience participation and creating a sense of unity among karaoke-goers. “Sweet Caroline” has been adopted as an unofficial anthem by sports teams, universities, and other groups, cementing its status as a timeless classic. Whether you’re a fan of Neil Diamond or simply love a good sing-along, “Sweet Caroline” is a must-have on any karaoke playlist.
4. “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi
Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer” is a rock anthem that has been a karaoke staple since its release in 1986. The song’s driving beat, catchy guitar riffs, and powerful vocals make it a perfect choice for anyone looking to channel their inner rock star. The lyrics tell the story of Tommy and Gina, a working-class couple struggling to make ends meet, but holding onto their dreams and each other. The song’s themes of love, perseverance, and the power of faith have resonated with audiences for decades. “Livin’ on a Prayer” is a high-energy song that is sure to get the crowd pumped up and singing along, making it a karaoke favorite for generations.
5. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a musical masterpiece that has become a karaoke classic thanks to its epic scope, complex harmonies, and unforgettable lyrics. Released in 1975, the song’s six-minute runtime encompasses multiple genres, from ballad to opera to hard rock, showcasing the band’s incredible versatility and Freddie Mercury’s vocal prowess. The song’s cryptic lyrics have been the subject of much speculation and interpretation over the years, adding to its enduring mystique. While “Bohemian Rhapsody” may be a challenging song to sing, its iconic status and participatory elements, such as the “Scaramouche, Scaramouche” section, make it a popular choice for karaoke enthusiasts looking to test their skills and bring down the house.
6. “Love Shack” by The B-52’s
“Love Shack” by The B-52’s is a fun, upbeat song that’s perfect for karaoke. Released in 1989, this new wave dance hit features quirky lyrics, a catchy melody, and a lively beat that’s sure to get everyone on their feet. The song’s playful, innuendo-laden lyrics tell the story of a wild party at a secluded cabin, the titular “Love Shack.” The B-52’s unique vocal style, with Fred Schneider’s spoken-word verses and Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson’s harmonies, adds to the song’s charm and makes it a memorable karaoke choice. “Love Shack” is a great option for those looking to inject some energy and humor into their karaoke performance.
7. “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” by The Righteous Brothers
“You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” by The Righteous Brothers is a timeless soul classic that has been captivating audiences since its release in 1964. The song’s emotional lyrics, powerful vocal performances, and sweeping orchestral arrangement make it a karaoke favorite for those looking to showcase their vocal range and storytelling abilities. The song tells the story of a man confronting his partner about the fading love in their relationship, with Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield’s voices blending perfectly to convey the heartbreak and desperation of the lyrics. “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” is a challenging song to sing, but its enduring popularity and emotional impact make it a rewarding choice for karaoke performers.
8. “Summer Nights” from Grease
“Summer Nights” from the musical Grease is a fun, flirty duet that’s perfect for karaoke. The song, performed by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John in the 1978 film, features a back-and-forth dialogue between the two characters, Danny and Sandy, as they recount their summer romance to their friends. The song’s catchy melody, doo-wop-inspired harmonies, and playful lyrics make it a popular choice for karaoke duos. The call-and-response structure of the song encourages audience participation, making it a lively and engaging karaoke experience. “Summer Nights” is a great choice for those looking to showcase their acting skills and have a little fun with their karaoke performance.
9. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics
“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics is a new wave classic that has been a karaoke favorite since its release in 1983. The song’s hypnotic synth riff, Annie Lennox’s distinctive vocals, and the enigmatic lyrics create a haunting and unforgettable atmosphere. The song’s themes of ambition, desire, and the search for meaning have resonated with audiences for decades, making it a popular choice for karaoke performers looking to make a statement. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” is a great option for those with a flair for the dramatic and a love for 80s synth-pop.
10. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” is a pop classic that has been filling dance floors and karaoke rooms since its release in 1987. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and Whitney’s powerful vocals make it a perfect choice for anyone looking to let loose and have a good time. The lyrics express the simple, universal desire for love and connection, making it a relatable choice for karaoke performers of all ages. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” is a high-energy song that’s sure to get the crowd dancing and singing along, cementing its status as a karaoke staple.
11. “Wannabe” by Spice Girls
“Wannabe” by the Spice Girls is a pop culture phenomenon that has been a karaoke favorite since its release in 1996. The song’s catchy lyrics, infectious beat, and the Spice Girls’ sassy attitudes make it a perfect choice for anyone looking to channel their inner girl power. The song’s themes of friendship, loyalty, and female empowerment have resonated with audiences worldwide, making it a popular choice for karaoke girl groups. “Wannabe” is a fun, high-energy song that encourages audience participation, with its iconic “tell me what you want, what you really, really want” refrain. Whether you’re a fan of the Spice Girls or simply love a good pop anthem, “Wannabe” is a must-have on any karaoke playlist.
12. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” is a rock classic that has been a karaoke favorite for decades. Released in 1975, the song’s driving beat, soaring guitar riffs, and Springsteen’s gritty vocals make it a perfect choice for anyone looking to channel their inner rock star. The lyrics tell the story of a young couple, desperate to escape their small-town life and chase their dreams, capturing the essence of youthful rebellion and the American spirit. “Born to Run” is a challenging song to sing, with its fast-paced lyrics and intense energy, but its iconic status and emotional power make it a rewarding choice for karaoke performers looking to make a statement.
13. “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” is a pop and R&B classic that has been a karaoke favorite since its release in 1983. The song’s pulsing bassline, Jackson’s smooth vocals, and the iconic dance beats make it a perfect choice for anyone looking to show off their moves and vocal skills. The lyrics tell the story of a woman claiming that Jackson is the father of her child, showcasing his ability to create memorable, narrative-driven songs. “Billie Jean” is a challenging song to sing, with its complex rhythms and Jackson’s signature vocal style, but its enduring popularity and cultural impact make it a must-have for any karaoke enthusiast.
14. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars is a funk and pop masterpiece that has been a karaoke favorite since its release in 2014. The song’s infectious groove, catchy lyrics, and Mars’ dynamic vocals make it a perfect choice for anyone looking to get the party started. The song pays homage to classic funk and R&B, with its brassy horns, slick guitar riffs, and irresistible dance beats. “Uptown Funk” is a great choice for karaoke performers looking to showcase their vocal range and stage presence, as well as those simply looking to have a good time. With its universal appeal and undeniable energy, “Uptown Funk” is sure to be a karaoke staple for years to come.
15. “Hey Jude” by The Beatles
“Hey Jude” by The Beatles is a timeless classic that has been a karaoke favorite for generations. Released in 1968, the song’s simple, yet powerful lyrics, McCartney’s emotive vocals, and the memorable “na-na-na” coda make it a perfect choice for anyone looking to create a sing-along moment. The song’s message of comfort and encouragement, originally written by McCartney for John Lennon’s son Julian, has resonated with audiences worldwide. “Hey Jude” is a great choice for karaoke performers looking to showcase their vocal range and storytelling abilities, as well as those simply looking to unite the crowd in a moment of shared musical experience. With its enduring popularity and emotional impact, “Hey Jude” is a must-have for any karaoke playlist.
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.
