Whether you’re belting out a power ballad in front of friends or crooning your favorite tune solo in your living room, karaoke is the ultimate celebration of music, fun, and fearless self-expression. It doesn’t matter if you can hit every note or just sing with heart—karaoke is all about the joy of performing and the magic of music bringing people together. From feel-good anthems to tearjerking classics, certain songs have become go-to staples for karaoke nights across the globe.
In this lively countdown of the Top 15 Most Popular Karaoke Songs of All Time, we highlight the all-time favorites that keep the crowd cheering and the microphones in constant demand. These tracks are more than just hits—they’re sing-along sensations, packed with unforgettable choruses, catchy melodies, and emotional moments that strike a chord with everyone in the room. Whether you’re channeling your inner diva, rock star, or pop icon, these songs have stood the test of time on karaoke playlists everywhere.
So warm up your vocal cords, grab the mic, and get ready to sing your heart out as we celebrate the karaoke kings and queens of every genre. No judgment here—just music, memories, and the thrill of the spotlight!
1. Let It Go – Idina Menzel (2013)
Disney’s Let It Go, performed by Idina Menzel and released in 2013 as part of the Frozen soundtrack, became a global sensation almost overnight. The song’s soaring melody, empowering lyrics, and theatrical arrangement make it irresistible for karaoke singers of all ages. It’s a modern power ballad that invites you to unleash your inner diva, complete with dramatic key changes and emotional highs. Whether you’re five or fifty, there’s something cathartic about belting “the cold never bothered me anyway” with all your might. It’s not just a song—it’s a moment of freedom.
2. Dancing Queen – ABBA (1976)
ABBA’s Dancing Queen, released in 1976, is a glittering disco gem that still gets dance floors moving nearly five decades later. Its shimmering piano intro, rich harmonies, and upbeat tempo make it an irresistible karaoke pick. The song captures the joy of youth and dancing, and its infectious chorus is easy to sing even after a few drinks. Whether you’re reliving a night out or just vibing to the groove, Dancing Queen turns any karaoke night into a disco party. It’s timeless, joyful, and pure pop perfection.
3. Wonderwall – Oasis (1995)
Released in 1995, Wonderwall by Oasis became the defining track of Britpop and quickly turned into a karaoke staple. With its acoustic backbone, introspective lyrics, and Liam Gallagher’s signature vocal style, the song is instantly recognizable. It’s perfect for those who want to sing something emotional without needing a powerhouse voice. Whether you’re reminiscing about lost love or just vibing with friends, Wonderwall taps into a universal kind of melancholy that makes it both personal and communal. It’s the unofficial campfire song of a generation.
4. My Heart Will Go On – Celine Dion (1997)
Celine Dion’s My Heart Will Go On, released in 1997 as the theme for Titanic, is the ultimate karaoke ballad. Its haunting flute intro and soaring chorus evoke the drama and romance of the blockbuster film it accompanied. Dion’s vocals are nothing short of epic, and while hitting those high notes is no small feat, the song’s emotional depth makes it a favorite for anyone willing to try. It’s a chance to channel pure cinematic emotion, and when done right, it brings the house down—or at least some tears.
5. Mr. Brightside – The Killers (2003)
Mr. Brightside, released by The Killers in 2003, is one of those rare songs that builds energy from the very first line and never lets up. With its driving beat, infectious guitar riff, and angsty lyrics about jealousy and heartbreak, it has become a millennial karaoke anthem. Brandon Flowers’ punchy vocal delivery makes it perfect for group sing-alongs, and its repetitive structure ensures everyone can chime in—even if they don’t know all the words. It’s cathartic, catchy, and almost guaranteed to ignite a crowd.
6. A Thousand Miles – Vanessa Carlton (2002)
Vanessa Carlton’s A Thousand Miles debuted in 2002 and quickly became a pop culture staple. Its iconic piano riff is instantly recognizable, and the song’s romantic lyrics and sweet melody make it a favorite for karaoke singers looking for something heartfelt but not too heavy. Carlton’s airy vocals are approachable for most, and the song’s steady pace makes it easy to follow along. Whether you’re evoking nostalgia or channeling your inner Terry Crews, A Thousand Miles is a piano-pop classic that always hits the right notes.
7. Shallow – Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper (2018)
From the 2018 film A Star Is Born, Shallow is a powerhouse duet that showcases emotional vulnerability and vocal strength. Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper’s raw, stripped-down performance captivated audiences, and the song quickly found its way into karaoke rotations. Its soft acoustic start builds into a dramatic crescendo, giving singers a chance to gradually unleash their vocal chops. Whether performed as a duet or solo, Shallow is a modern classic that delivers intensity, passion, and a little bit of Hollywood magic.
8. Billie Jean – Michael Jackson (1983)
Michael Jackson’s Billie Jean, released in 1983, is a masterclass in rhythm, mystery, and charisma. With its unforgettable bassline and Jackson’s electrifying vocal delivery, the song tells a suspenseful story while making you want to dance. Karaoke singers love it not only for its groove but also for the chance to embody the King of Pop, complete with moonwalks and finger snaps. It’s a cool, confident track that brings swagger to the mic, and its timeless appeal keeps it in heavy rotation.
9. I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me) – Whitney Houston (1987)
Whitney Houston’s 1987 hit I Wanna Dance with Somebody is pure joy in musical form. With its bright synths, infectious chorus, and Houston’s dazzling vocals, it’s a go-to for karaoke nights when you want to get everyone moving. The song’s blend of longing and elation strikes a universal chord, and even if you can’t match Whitney’s vocal range (few can), it’s still a blast to sing. It’s the kind of song that turns the mic into a dance floor and makes you feel invincible for four glorious minutes.
10. Friends in Low Places – Garth Brooks (1990)
Released in 1990, Garth Brooks’ Friends in Low Places is a country karaoke classic that’s all about camaraderie, barroom defiance, and good ol’ fashioned fun. Its laid-back tempo and talk-singing style make it accessible to just about anyone, regardless of vocal skill. The sing-along chorus is practically made for group participation, and its cheeky lyrics about crashing an ex’s wedding make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a die-hard country fan or just looking for a song to raise your glass to, this one never fails to bring the house together.
11. Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen (1975)
Released in 1975, Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody shattered every convention of what a rock song could be. Clocking in at nearly six minutes and boasting no chorus, the song is a theatrical rollercoaster blending ballad, opera, and hard rock in one audacious piece. Freddie Mercury’s vision—paired with Brian May’s searing guitar solos and layered vocal harmonies—created a genre-defying masterpiece. Its cryptic lyrics and explosive shifts make it both a challenge and a thrill to perform, which is exactly why karaoke lovers can’t resist belting it out. Whether you’re headbanging with Wayne and Garth in your mind or just soaking in the emotion of the piano intro, “Bohemian Rhapsody” transforms karaoke night into a full-blown performance.
12. Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey (1981)
Journey’s Don’t Stop Believin’, released in 1981, has become the unofficial national anthem of karaoke nights worldwide. With its driving piano intro, soaring vocals from Steve Perry, and lyrics about hope and perseverance, the song resonates with just about everyone. Its slow build to the iconic chorus gives singers time to warm up before belting out the words they’ve probably known forever. It’s more than just a song—it’s a communal experience. Whether in a dive bar or a stadium, once that first line hits, the crowd is already singing along, reminding us all to hold on to that feelin’.
13. Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond (1969)
Few songs have the power to unite a room like Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline, released in 1969. With its signature “ba ba baa” and “so good, so good, so good!” call-outs, it’s impossible to resist joining in. Originally written as a heartfelt tribute (Diamond later revealed it was inspired by Caroline Kennedy), the song has taken on a life of its own as a sing-along anthem at sports games, weddings, and karaoke lounges. Its catchy melody and simple lyrics make it accessible for even the shyest performers, yet its energy can turn an ordinary night into a memorable one.
14. Livin’ on a Prayer – Bon Jovi (1986)
Bon Jovi’s 1986 hit Livin’ on a Prayer is pure adrenaline in song form. With its iconic talk box intro and the tale of Tommy and Gina struggling to get by, this anthem became a defining track of the ’80s rock era. Jon Bon Jovi’s high-octane vocals and the song’s explosive chorus make it a favorite for anyone looking to unleash their inner rock star. It’s not just about singing—it’s about shouting, jumping, and riding the wave of nostalgia that hits the moment the chorus kicks in. Karaoke nights are incomplete without at least one passionate rendition of this classic.
15. I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor (1978)
I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor exploded onto the scene in 1978 and quickly became an anthem of empowerment. With its disco beat, sweeping strings, and fierce vocal performance, the song tells a story of personal triumph after heartbreak. What makes it karaoke gold is its universal message and unforgettable hook—people don’t just sing it, they perform it. Whether it’s a solo spotlight or a group shout-along, this song transforms any karaoke session into a celebration of strength and resilience. Few tracks have aged as gracefully, and its enduring popularity speaks volumes.
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.
