There are two kinds of people in this world: those who love karaoke, and those who haven’t had enough drinks yet. Whether you can belt like Beyoncé or mumble like Bob Dylan, here are 10 songs that bring the party every single time—no vocal training required.
1. “Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey
This song is karaoke’s national anthem. Everyone knows the words. Everyone becomes Steve Perry. Bonus points if you are actually born and raised in South Detroit.
2. “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen
It’s dramatic. It’s chaotic. It’s six minutes long and you will need backup singers. But if you can make it through the operatic middle without bursting into laughter, you’re a legend.
3. “I Want It That Way” – Backstreet Boys
Boy band ballads never go out of style. Grab four friends, harmonize poorly, and feel every emotion like you’re on TRL in 1999. Tell me why this isn’t always in your karaoke rotation.
4. “Sweet Caroline” – Neil Diamond
This one’s not even about singing—it’s about shouting BAH BAH BAH like your life depends on it. A guaranteed crowd singalong, especially after two pitchers of beer.
5. “Tequila” – The Champs
You only need to say one word. No really, just one: “Tequila.” And yet, it brings the house down every time. Perfect for shy singers or comedians in disguise.
6. “Shallow” – Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper
For the dramatic duo in the room. It starts tender, ends in a scream, and if you’re not reenacting the A Star Is Born movie poster by the end, did you even do it right?
7. “Mr. Brightside” – The Killers
The emo millennial anthem that turned into an eternal banger. Everyone knows every word, and if you’re shouting them through clenched teeth, you’re doing it right.
8. “Total Eclipse of the Heart” – Bonnie Tyler
Ballads that are this dramatic deserve their own wind machine. Belt it like your ex is in the audience and you just saw them with someone new. Goosebumps guaranteed.
9. “Living on a Prayer” – Bon Jovi
It starts with a story, ends with a scream. By the time you get to Ohhhh we’re halfway there, the bar’s on fire (metaphorically). Or literally, depending on your local dive.
10. “Since U Been Gone” – Kelly Clarkson
This one’s for the people with something to prove. Shout it, scream it, heal a little. Kelly gave us a breakup song we didn’t know we needed. And yes, the high note is mandatory.
Whether you’re singing your heart out or just yelling “Tequila!” into the mic, karaoke isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up, letting loose, and maybe losing your voice for a good reason.
