Welcome to our musical journey exploring the top 20 most popular karaoke songs of all time!
From timeless classics to modern chart-toppers, these tracks have echoed through countless bars, parties, and living rooms, uniting friends and strangers in the joy of singing the most popular karaoke songs.
They are the songs that get everyone involved, invite the shyest among us to seize the mic, and provide unforgettable moments of joy, laughter, and even the occasional tear.
Whether you’re an aspiring vocalist or just someone who loves a good sing-along, we’ve got you covered.
So, warm up your vocal cords, grab your imaginary microphone, and let’s dive into the world of karaoke’s greatest hits.
20 Most Popular Karaoke Songs
“Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey: Rock Anthems for Karaoke
“Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey is a quintessential karaoke song. This rock anthem, released in 1981, has one of the most recognizable intros in the history of music.
Its uplifting message and catchy chorus make it a crowd-pleaser on karaoke nights.
Singers can embrace the power of their vocals during the crescendo of the song, and the audience usually enjoys singing along, especially during the famous “Streetlight people” line.
“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen: The Ultimate Karaoke Challenge
There’s a reason why “Bohemian Rhapsody” has been hailed as one of the best karaoke songs of all time.
The epic rock opera from Queen, released in 1975, offers a unique blend of sounds and styles, making it an exciting and challenging choice for karaoke.
The song demands range, emotion, and a healthy sense of drama. Its complexity and length provide an opportunity for a group performance, offering multiple parts for different singers.
The operatic section alone is a wild ride that encourages performers to let loose and have fun with it.
Singing “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen: A Classic Song Choice
“Hallelujah” is a powerful ballad that gives karaoke singers a chance to showcase their emotional depth.
This Leonard Cohen masterpiece has been covered countless times, offering a variety of styles for singers to emulate.
Its poignant lyrics and memorable melody resonate deeply with listeners, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more serious and heartfelt karaoke performance.
While it may not be the typical upbeat karaoke selection, it’s a beautiful piece that often captivates an audience.
The Timeless Appeal of “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond
“Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond is an all-time karaoke favorite that often gets everyone in the room singing along.
This catchy, upbeat tune, released in 1969, is particularly popular in bars and at family gatherings.
The well-known “ba ba ba” chorus part brings a sense of community and togetherness. This song is a surefire way to lighten the mood and get everyone involved in the karaoke fun.
“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston: For the Powerhouse Singers
Whitney Houston’s rendition of “I Will Always Love You” is considered one of the most challenging karaoke songs, but it’s also one of the most rewarding.
Released in 1992 as part of “The Bodyguard” soundtrack, it showcases incredible vocal range and power. It gives talented singers an opportunity to show off their skills.
This heart-wrenching ballad is a showstopper when done right, often drawing applause and cheers from the audience.
Singing “Hotel California” by The Eagles: Iconic Karaoke Classic
“Hotel California” by The Eagles is an iconic karaoke classic that appeals to a wide range of ages.
Released in 1977, this soft rock ballad, with its mysterious, haunting lyrics and memorable guitar solos, often attracts those looking for something a bit more laid-back yet recognizable for their karaoke performance.
Its slower tempo and distinctive melody allow singers of various skill levels to give it a try, making it a popular choice for many karaoke enthusiasts.
“I Want To Break Free” by Queen: An Audience Favorite
“I Want To Break Free” is another Queen classic that makes for a fantastic karaoke song.
Released in 1984, it’s a song with an upbeat tempo and a catchy, sing-along chorus that most people know. It’s a great choice for those wanting to engage the crowd and sing along.
Plus, it’s a song that allows for some dramatic performance flair, making it an enjoyable and engaging choice for any karaoke singer.
“Dancing Queen” by ABBA: Karaoke Party Staple
“Dancing Queen” by ABBA is the ultimate party anthem and a karaoke staple. This disco-pop hit, released in 1976, is a fun and upbeat choice that gets people dancing and singing along.
Its universal appeal makes it a great choice for a variety of events, from birthday parties to wedding receptions.
With its simple lyrics and catchy rhythm, it’s a song that even the most inexperienced karaoke singers can enjoy.
“Let It Go” from Frozen: A Modern Disney Classic
“Let It Go”, the Oscar-winning song from Disney’s Frozen, has quickly become a modern classic in the world of karaoke.
This empowering anthem, sung by Idina Menzel in the movie, is a favorite among younger karaoke singers.
Its powerful chorus and high notes provide a good challenge for those looking to stretch their vocal range.
Plus, it’s a song that most people will recognize and enjoy.
“Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi: For the Rock Stars at Heart
“Livin’ On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi is a high-energy rock anthem that’s perfect for those who want to channel their inner rock star at karaoke.
This 1986 hit song has a catchy, sing-along chorus and an uplifting message that resonates with many.
The song’s powerful vocals and energetic guitar parts make it a fun and engaging choice for karaoke, especially for those who like to perform with a bit of a rock-and-roll attitude.
“Torn” by Natalie Imbruglia: A ’90s Nostalgia Trip
“Torn” by Natalie Imbruglia is a perfect song for a ’90s nostalgia trip. This pop-rock song is well known for its catchy tune and relatable lyrics.
It offers a chance for the singer to display emotion and storytelling through song. The laid-back tempo and memorable melody make it an accessible choice for a wide range of singers.
Plus, the audience is likely to join in for the chorus, making it an interactive karaoke experience.
“Wonderwall” by Oasis: A Britpop Favorite
“Wonderwall” by Oasis is a Britpop favorite that has stood the test of time, making it a popular karaoke choice.
This mid-’90s hit is known for its simple, catchy melody and emotional lyrics. It’s a great song for those looking to showcase their singing ability without the need for high notes or complex vocal techniques.
The song’s universal appeal ensures that the audience will sing along with the well-known chorus.
“Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses: Channeling Your Inner Rock God
“Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses is an excellent choice for any karaoke singer wanting to channel their inner rock god.
Released in 1987, this song is known for its iconic opening guitar riff and Axl Rose’s unique vocal style.
Singing this song is a fun challenge, offering high-energy vocals and the opportunity to add some rock star swagger to your karaoke performance.
“My Heart Will Go On” by Céline Dion: Reliving the Titanic Era
Céline Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On” from the Titanic soundtrack is a dramatic power ballad that’s often performed at karaoke.
The song, released in 1997, is known for its soaring high notes and emotive lyrics. Singers who can hit those notes will certainly impress the audience.
This song allows the singer to deliver a powerful, heartfelt performance, often sparking nostalgia for the iconic film.
“Wannabe” by Spice Girls: Karaoke Night Spice-Up
“Wannabe” by the Spice Girls is a lively, fun-filled song that can spice up any karaoke night.
This ’90s pop hit is known for its fast-paced lyrics and catchy tune, making it a crowd favorite.
This song is also a great choice for group performances, as each singer can take on the role of a different Spice Girl.
It’s a surefire way to bring energy and enthusiasm to any karaoke event.
“Hey Jude” by The Beatles: A Crowd Sing-Along Classic
“Hey Jude” by The Beatles is a crowd sing-along classic and a popular karaoke song.
This iconic song, released in 1968, is known for its soothing melody and the lengthy “na-na-na” outro, which encourages audience participation.
This is a song that brings people together, making it a heartwarming choice for any karaoke night.
Plus, it’s a song that’s familiar to people of all ages, increasing its appeal.
“I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston: Dance Floor Opener
“I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston is a surefire way to get people up and dancing.
This upbeat ’80s pop hit is a popular choice for karaoke due to its fun, danceable rhythm, and catchy lyrics.
The song allows singers to show off their vocal range, especially during the powerful chorus. The energetic vibes of this song make it a perfect choice to get the party started.
“Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper: Karaoke Fun Anthem
“Girls Just Want To Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper is the ultimate karaoke fun anthem. Released in 1983, this song is a go-to choice for a light-hearted, energetic karaoke performance.
The catchy tune and empowering lyrics make it a favorite among female karaoke singers. This song is bound to get the crowd dancing and singing along, adding a dose of fun to any karaoke event.
“Piano Man” by Billy Joel: The Karaoke Bar Ballad
“Piano Man” by Billy Joel is a beloved karaoke bar ballad. Released in 1973, this song tells a touching story with its lyrics, while its harmonica and piano elements create a unique sound.
This song offers karaoke singers a chance to captivate the audience with a more narrative-driven performance.
While it may not be the easiest song to sing, its familiar melody and engaging lyrics make it a popular choice.
“All Star” by Smash Mouth: The Throwback Choice for Millennial Singers
“All Star” by Smash Mouth is a nostalgic throwback choice for many millennial karaoke singers.
This late ’90s hit is known for its catchy tune and uplifting, motivational lyrics. It’s a song that most people know, making it a fun choice for karaoke, as the audience is likely to sing along.
This upbeat song is a good choice for those looking for a fun, feel-good karaoke experience.
| Song Title | Artist/Band | Year Released | Genre |
| Bohemian Rhapsody | Queen | 1975 | Rock Opera |
| Don’t Stop Believing | Journey | 1981 | Rock |
| Hallelujah | Leonard Cohen | 1984 | Folk |
| Sweet Caroline | Neil Diamond | 1969 | Pop |
| I Will Always Love You | Whitney Houston | 1992 | R&B |
| Hotel California | The Eagles | 1977 | Rock |
| I Want To Break Free | Queen | 1984 | Rock |
| Dancing Queen | ABBA | 1976 | Disco |
| Let It Go | Idina Menzel | 2013 | Pop |
| Livin’ On A Prayer | Bon Jovi | 1986 | Rock |
| Wonderwall | Oasis | 1995 | Britpop |
| Torn | Natalie Imbruglia | 1997 | Pop-Rock |
| Sweet Child O’ Mine | Guns N’ Roses | 1987 | Hard Rock |
| My Heart Will Go On | Céline Dion | 1997 | Pop |
| Wannabe | Spice Girls | 1996 | Pop |
| Hey Jude | The Beatles | 1968 | Rock |
| I Wanna Dance with Somebody | Whitney Houston | 1987 | Pop |
| Girls Just Want To Have Fun | Cyndi Lauper | 1983 | Pop |
| Piano Man | Billy Joel | 1973 | Soft Rock |
| All Star | Smash Mouth | 1999 | Pop-Rock |
In conclusion,
Karaoke is a popular and fun activity that can liven up any gathering.
These twenty popular karaoke songs span multiple decades and genres, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
From classic rock anthems like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Don’t Stop Believing” to heartfelt ballads like “Hallelujah” and “I Will Always Love You,” these songs are loved by many and often chosen for their memorable melodies, catchy lyrics, and broad appeal.
Whether you’re a seasoned singer or a karaoke newbie, selecting a song that you love and feel comfortable singing is key.
With a song from this list, you’re sure to give a performance that will entertain your audience and make your karaoke experience memorable.
