Karaoke nights are all about letting loose, grabbing the mic, and channeling your inner diva. Whether you’re singing your heart out to an emotional ballad or commanding the stage with a fierce anthem, the right song can turn any performance into an unforgettable moment. And when it comes to women’s karaoke hits, there’s no shortage of powerful, fun, and iconic tracks to choose from.
From soulful classics that demand respect to modern-day chart-toppers full of fire and passion, these songs have stood the test of time as crowd favorites. They’re the tracks that make you feel unstoppable, give you goosebumps, or simply make you want to dance like nobody’s watching. Whether you’re channeling Adele’s raw emotion, unleashing your sass with Shania Twain, or taking the crowd back in time with ABBA, there’s a karaoke song here for every mood and every voice.
This list of the top 15 most popular karaoke songs for women celebrates empowerment, heartbreak, joy, and everything in between. It’s packed with timeless hits and modern anthems guaranteed to bring the house down. So grab your mic, warm up your vocals, and get ready to own the stage—because these songs are about to make you the star of the night!
1. “I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor (1978)
“I Will Survive” is the ultimate anthem of strength and resilience. When it was released in 1978, Gloria Gaynor’s powerful performance instantly turned this disco classic into a worldwide sensation. The song tells the story of overcoming heartbreak and emerging stronger than before, resonating with listeners who have experienced their own challenges. With its infectious beat and empowering message, it’s become a karaoke staple for anyone looking to channel their inner fighter. Whether performed solo or as a group, this song fills the room with energy and positivity, inspiring everyone to belt out the lyrics and reclaim their power.
2. “Respect” – Aretha Franklin (1967)
Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural milestone. Released in 1967, this powerful track turned a simple request for respect into an empowering declaration of independence, especially for women. Franklin’s soulful voice and commanding presence make it a go-to karaoke hit for those who want to take control of the stage. The iconic “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” breakdown is impossible to resist, and no crowd can stay quiet during this electrifying anthem. It’s a song that demands attention, with every note exuding strength and confidence.
3. “Rolling in the Deep” – Adele (2010)
When Adele released “Rolling in the Deep” in 2010, it quickly became a modern classic. The song’s dramatic piano intro and Adele’s powerhouse vocals set the stage for a journey of heartbreak, defiance, and resilience. Its intense energy and raw emotion make it a karaoke favorite, with many singers eager to match the intensity of Adele’s performance. The haunting chorus is perfect for belting out with passion, ensuring that every karaoke session becomes a showstopper. This track’s powerful story and unforgettable melody leave a lasting impression on anyone who hears it.
4. “Dancing Queen” – ABBA (1976)
“Dancing Queen” is the epitome of joy and freedom, capturing the essence of youth and the excitement of the dance floor. Released by ABBA in 1976, this disco anthem has remained a karaoke favorite for decades. The song’s shimmering melody and uplifting vocals make it an irresistible choice for any karaoke night. Whether you’re twirling around with friends or harmonizing with a group, “Dancing Queen” brings out the celebratory spirit in everyone. It’s the ultimate feel-good song that transforms any gathering into a lively celebration.
5. “Before He Cheats” – Carrie Underwood (2005)
Carrie Underwood’s “Before He Cheats” is a fiery anthem of revenge and empowerment. Released in 2005, the song tells the story of a woman who takes control after being betrayed by her cheating partner. With its sassy lyrics and intense delivery, this track quickly became a karaoke favorite, especially for those ready to channel their inner diva. The catchy chorus and dramatic storytelling make it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s guaranteed to leave a lasting impact on the audience. Every time this song hits the speakers, you can count on a standing ovation.
6. “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” – Cyndi Lauper (1983)
Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” is the ultimate anthem of carefree joy and female empowerment. Released in 1983, the song’s colorful energy and playful spirit made it an instant classic. Whether you’re singing it solo or with friends, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” turns any karaoke night into an unforgettable party. The iconic chorus invites everyone to join in, creating a sense of camaraderie and excitement. This song has remained timeless because it embodies the joy of living in the moment and embracing freedom without apology.
7. “Someone Like You” – Adele (2011)
Adele’s “Someone Like You,” released in 2011, is a haunting ballad about heartbreak, loss, and longing. With its minimalist piano arrangement and raw, emotional vocals, this song creates a powerful connection with listeners. For karaoke singers, “Someone Like You” is an opportunity to showcase emotional depth and vulnerability, making it an unforgettable experience. The tender lyrics resonate deeply, turning each performance into a personal journey. When performed with feeling, this ballad can leave the audience moved and in awe, creating a moment of pure musical magic.
8. “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” – Shania Twain (1997)
Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” is a country-pop anthem that celebrates confidence and femininity. Released in 1997, the song’s bold lyrics and upbeat tempo make it a karaoke favorite for women ready to take the stage and have fun. From the iconic “Let’s go, girls!” to the explosive chorus, this track never fails to get the crowd excited and engaged. It’s the perfect song to sing with a group of friends, turning any karaoke session into a high-energy celebration of empowerment and joy.
9. “Total Eclipse of the Heart” – Bonnie Tyler (1983)
Released in 1983, Total Eclipse of the Heart is a dramatic power ballad that has become a karaoke classic. The song is defined by Bonnie Tyler’s distinctive raspy vocals, which add an emotional rawness to its sweeping melody. The song’s theatrical lyrics, full of longing and passion, create an unforgettable experience for those brave enough to sing it. With its soaring highs and heart-wrenching lows, Total Eclipse of the Heart is perfect for anyone who wants to make a big impact on stage. Its powerful emotions and grandeur make it a favorite for karaoke performers looking to steal the spotlight and captivate their audience.
10. “Since U Been Gone” – Kelly Clarkson (2004)
Kelly Clarkson’s Since U Been Gone, released in 2004, became an instant anthem of independence and liberation. With its explosive chorus and empowering lyrics, the song resonates with anyone ready to embrace freedom and move on from a past relationship. The song’s infectious energy and Clarkson’s powerhouse vocals elevate the performance, making it the perfect karaoke choice for anyone looking to rock out and feel unstoppable. The combination of pop-rock energy and raw emotion creates a powerful moment, giving you the chance to channel your inner rock star.
11. “Like a Prayer” – Madonna (1989)
Madonna’s Like a Prayer, released in 1989, is a genre-defying masterpiece that blends pop, gospel, and rock in a way that only she could pull off. The song’s provocative lyrics and powerful vocals make it a bold and daring karaoke choice. As the dramatic build-up leads into the unforgettable chorus, it captures attention and energizes any crowd. This iconic anthem is not only a powerful musical statement but also a performance piece that demands to be sung with conviction. Every time you take on Like a Prayer, you’re bound to leave a lasting impression on your audience.
12. “My Heart Will Go On” – Celine Dion (1997)
Celine Dion’s My Heart Will Go On, from the 1997 Titanic soundtrack, is one of the most iconic ballads in history. Its timeless melody, paired with Dion’s soaring vocals, makes it an unforgettable karaoke experience. The emotional depth of the song taps into the romance and drama of the Titanic film, transporting listeners into the world of love and loss. When you belt out this ballad, you capture all the heartache and beauty of the film, creating a performance that leaves everyone in awe. It’s a karaoke classic that stands the test of time.
13. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” – Tina Turner (1984)
Tina Turner’s What’s Love Got to Do with It, released in 1984, is a sultry and soulful exploration of love, independence, and self-worth. With her raspy, confident voice, Turner makes this song one of the most powerful and alluring tracks in pop history. The smooth rhythm and catchy chorus make it a perfect karaoke choice for those looking to channel their inner diva. The song’s iconic delivery and memorable lyrics ensure a performance full of attitude, showcasing Turner’s legendary artistry and raw emotion. It’s a classic anthem of empowerment, and a standout karaoke piece.
14. “Someone to Watch Over Me” – Ella Fitzgerald (1950)
Ella Fitzgerald’s Someone to Watch Over Me, released in 1950, is a beautiful jazz standard that showcases her extraordinary vocal talent and emotional depth. With its delicate melody and heartfelt lyrics, this timeless ballad adds an elegant touch to any karaoke performance. Fitzgerald’s smooth delivery and emotional resonance make this song a perfect choice for singers seeking to evoke a sense of nostalgia and romance. It’s a moment of pure magic, capturing the essence of vintage jazz and the warmth of Fitzgerald’s unmatched voice. A performance of this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
15. “You Oughta Know” – Alanis Morissette (1995)
Alanis Morissette’s You Oughta Know, released in 1995, is a fiery breakup anthem that perfectly captures the raw anger and heartbreak of a failed relationship. With its candid lyrics and intense delivery, the song is a cathartic karaoke choice for anyone ready to let out their emotions. Morissette’s unapologetic tone and unapologetic energy make this song ideal for a bold, energetic performance. The song’s raw power and intensity ensure that every performance is unforgettable, with its unrestrained emotion and edgy vibe. It’s a karaoke classic that demands to be sung with passion and attitude.
Samuel Moore 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.
