Whether you grew up in the 80s or not, there’s no denying that the era was full of great music. And what could be better than reliving those tunes by singing along at karaoke? We all love to get loose and belt out some of the classics, so for all those 80s music fans and karaoke audiences out there, here is a list of the 12 best 80s karaoke songs to get your party started:
Billie Jean By Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” is widely considered one of the best famous songs of the 1980s. The original song was released in 1982 as part of Jackson’s hugely successful debut album Thriller and quickly became a worldwide hit. The catchy synth line and danceable beat make “Billie Jean” an ideal choice for karaoke, and the lyrics are relatively straightforward, making it easy to sing along. The theme song also has great emotional resonance, with Jackson singing about a woman who falsely accused him of fathering her sweet child. This makes it an ideal performance for all music enthusiasts on smooth karaoke nights.
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Take On Me – A-Ha
The Norwegian pop band A-Ha released their hit single “Take on Me” in 1984, and it quickly became one of the most popular songs of the decade. The song is known for its catchy chorus and driving beat, making it perfect for karaoke classics. It also features a special instrumental section sampled and remixed by many other karaoke singers. The song’s lyrics tell the story of two people trying to connect despite obstacles. It’s an ideal love rock n roll hit that would work best for a karaoke session.
Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley
Rick Astley’s hit single “Never Gonna Give You Up” was released in 1987 and quickly became a global phenomenon. This famous song has a classic 80s sound, synth-heavy production, and a catchy chorus. It also has an uplifting message of resilience and perseverance, making it perfect for karaoke. The lyrics are relatively straightforward, so it should be easy to sing along even if you don’t know all the words.
Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey
Journey’s hit single “Don’t Stop Believin’” is among the most popular karaoke songs. The song was released in 1981 and quickly became a worldwide hit, propelled by its emotionally charged lyrics and anthemic chorus. It’s a great choice for karaoke because it’s easy to sing along to yet still has enough complexity to make it interesting. And with its powerful message of hope and perseverance, “Don’t Stop Believin’” is sure to get your party started.
Walking on Sunshine – Katrina and the Waves
Katrina and the Waves released their hit single “Walking on Sunshine” in 1985, and it quickly became a worldwide hit. The song is known for its upbeat tempo and infectious chorus, making it perfect for karaoke. It’s easy to sing along to, but there are enough lyrical twists and turns to keep things interesting. And with its catchy chorus and positive message of optimism, “Walking on Sunshine” will have you singing (and dancing) all karaoke night long.
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Another One Bites The Dust – Queen
Queen’s hit single “Another One Bites The Dust” was released in 1980 and quickly became one of the band’s biggest hits. The song has a classic rock sound, with its driving beat and catchy chorus. It also features some clever sonic effects that will give your karaoke performance an extra flair. Any Karaoke singer can flow with its rhythm quite easily.
I Wanna Dance With Somebody – Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston released her hit single “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” in 1987, quickly becoming one of the decade’s most iconic songs. This great karaoke song has a classic 80s sound, bouncy beat, and infectious chorus. It’s also easy to sing along to, making it a great choice for karaoke. And with its uplifting message about the power of love, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” is sure to get your party started.
Hit Me With Your Best Shot – Pat Benatar
Pat Benatar released her hit single “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” in 1980, quickly becoming one of the decade’s most popular songs. The perfect song has a classic rock sound, with its driving beat and catchy chorus. It also features clever lyrical wordplay that will keep you on your toes as you sing. And with its empowering fun lyrics about standing up for yourself, “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any karaoke party.
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Love Shack – B-52’S
The B-52 released their hit single “Love Shack” in 1989, and it quickly became one of the most iconic songs of the decade. The song has a classic pop sound, with its upbeat tempo and infectious chorus. It’s easy to sing along to, but there are enough lyrical twists and turns to keep things interesting. And with its celebratory lyrics about love and togetherness, “Love Shack” is sure to get your party going.
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper released her hit single “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” in 1983, and it quickly became one of the most popular songs of the decade. The song has a classic 80s sound, an infectious beat, and a catchy chorus. It’s easy to sing along to, but there are enough lyrical nuances to keep things interesting. And with its empowering message about female independence, “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any karaoke party.
Africa – Toto
Toto released their hit single “Africa” in 1982, and it quickly became one of the most iconic songs of the decade. The song has a classic rock sound, with its driving beat and anthemic chorus. It’s also easy to sing along to, making it perfect for karaoke. And with its uplifting message about embracing our differences and coming together as one human race, “Africa” will surely be a hit at your next karaoke party.
What’s Love Got To Do With It – Tina Turner
Tina Turner released her hit single “What’s Love Got to Do with It” in 1984, and it quickly became one of the most popular songs of the decade. The song has a classic rock sound, with its driving beat and catchy chorus. It also features clever lyrical wordplay that will keep you on your toes as you sing. And with its powerful message about the power of love, “What’s Love Got to Do with It” is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next karaoke party.
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Bottom Line
When it comes to karaoke, plenty of classic songs will get your audience singing along. Whether you’re looking for something fun, upbeat, serious, or meaningful, these 12 songs have covered you. These songs come from musicians like George Michael, Bon Jovi, David Bowie, and more. So, grab the mic and show everyone what you can do.