Maybe you are the best singer in your whole city. Also, perhaps your singing sounds a bit like a cat in distress, especially after a few drinks. However, no matter your vocal range or ability, you will step onto the karaoke stage and shine.
Picking the right song is essential. If you struggle with hitting the right notes, consider a rap. If you want to flaunt those high notes, maybe go for a Whitney Houston classic. Our list of the greatest best karaoke songs album songs includes everyone from Madonna to Lizzo, and from Toto to Frank Sinatra. So grab the mic, warm up those vocal cords, and get ready to sing your heart out.
Best karaoke songs album songs, ranked
‘Like a Prayer’ by Madonna
“Like a Prayer” is a track analyzed and dissected many times. Here are some key points about the song:
Musical Blend:
- The production of “Like a Prayer” is a perfect example of how music can be both catchy and complex. It blends gospel, pop, and rock with funk, soul, and R&B elements.
- The use of a choir, guitar riffs, and piano creates a powerful and uplifting sound.
- Prince’s musicians, including drummer Sheila E, contributed to the virtuosity of the track.
The opening lines set the tone: “Life is a mystery, everyone must stand alone. I hear you call my name, and it feels like home.” These lines convey a sense of longing and connection to something greater than oneself.
The chorus is perhaps the most well-known part: “Like a prayer, I’ll take you there. It’s like a dream to me.” Madonna’s vocals shine here, and it is where the song truly takes off. The chorus feels like a call to action, a declaration of faith, or a message of hope.
‘My Way’ by Frank Sinatra
In this song, Sinatra reflects on his life’s journey and the choices he has made. He acknowledges that he faced challenges and took some hits along the way, but overall, he is satisfied with how he lived.
The essence of the song lies in doing things “his way” embracing individuality, principles, and personal beliefs. Sinatra’s contentment is not solely about material accomplishments; it is about staying true to himself while achieving success.
Each verse weaves a compelling narrative, encapsulating triumphs and tribulations with grace and authenticity.
The lyrics were written by Paul Anka, inspired by the “me generation” a time when individualism became prominent. Anka intentionally used terminology associated with Sinatra, writing the song specifically for him. Sinatra’s version of “My Way” became iconic, recorded in just one take and defining his career.
Also, Sinatra himself disliked the song, considering it “self-serving and self-indulgent”. He could not escape its shadow, and it became a national anthem.
‘Juice’ by Lizzo
Lizzo’s song ‘Juice’ is perfect for a fun girl’s night out. It is easy on the vocal cords but heavy on self-love. The funky pop vibe and confident lyrics like ‘baby, I’m the whole damn meal’ and ‘I’m like Chardonnay, get better over time’ will boost your confidence even if you start off a bit shy. As the queen of self-empowerment, Lizzo would be disappointed if you do not give ‘Juice’ your all when singing it.
‘Purple Rain’ by Prince
Now that the legendary artist known for his flamboyant style, pansexual appeal, and fusion of disco, rock, and funk has sadly passed away, his iconic slow jam can serve both as a tribute and a captivating addition to your karaoke repertoire.
If we dare to assign significance to what is essentially a lighthearted activity, singing ‘Purple Rain’ during karaoke might even lift your spirits.
When performing it, aim for a comfortable middle key (Eb, as helpfully indicated on the preview screen) rather than attempting Prince’s high-pitched falsetto. This way, you can express yourself without any awkward vocal mishaps.
‘Since U Been Gone’ by Kelly Clarkson
Behind the glittering Nordic sound of this mega-hit lies a soulful ballad. The lyrics, although famously nonsensical due to Swedish producer and songwriter Max Martin’s limited English skills, take a back seat when you have got one of the catchiest choruses in pop music.
Kevin Richardson, known as ‘The Old One’ in the Backstreet Boys, summed it up well: ‘There are songs that don’t make sense but still make you feel good when you sing along, and this is one of them.’ It is the perfect endorsement for karaoke.
’I Wanna Dance With Somebody’ by Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s hit from 1987 is still a burst of energetic pop brilliance. Her strong, flexible voice glides effortlessly over lively synthesizers and funky guitar rhythms. The song turns the heartache of searching for a dance partner into the best Friday night ever.
Moreover, remember, at karaoke, you are never alone especially if you hit that third-act key change.
‘I Will Survive’ by Gloria Gaynor
Sometimes, you find yourself facing a crowd of strangers, and you want to show them that no matter what difficulties or bad luck come your way, you will keep going. In those moments, Gloria Gaynor’s famous breakup anthem is the perfect choice.
When it first came out in 1978, it empowered dancers on the floor. If you have to, you can settle for the ’90s alt-rock band Cake’s cover of the song, but Gaynor’s original version is way groovier.
‘Love Shack’ by the B-52s
The B-52s’ hit from 1989, “Love Shack,” is perfect for karaoke because it gets everyone involved. When you sing Cindy Wilson’s famous line, “your what?” the whole room can shout back, “Tin roof… rusted!”
However, honestly, “Love Shack” is so much fun to sing and listen to that the whole place will be dancing even before that part.
‘Do not Stop Believin’’ by Journey
By now, it is almost unnecessary to mention that this energetic, heartwarming rock anthem is a fantastic choice for karaoke. It is like saying ‘Happy Birthday’ is perfect for singing at a birthday party it is that obvious. Sure, it has been sung countless times, but that is the beauty of karaoke it is a shared experience.
So, even if you roll your eyes at the dramatic keyboard intro, by the time your pretend Steve Perry gets to the part about ‘strangers waiting up and down the boulevard,’ you will be fully immersed, just like everyone else in the pub. Honestly, it is the ultimate best karaoke songs album songs.
‘Stand by Me’ by Ben E. King
During karaoke, there is always a moment that tugs at your heartstrings. Enter the 1961 classic ‘Stand by Me,’ covered over 400 times (and no, we’re not counting your karaoke version). Ben E. King, along with songwriting legends Leiber and Stoller, penned this gem.
Its origins trace back to a gospel song called ‘Lord Stand by Me.’ However, it is more than just a typical love song it made its mark in the 1986 coming-of-age film ‘Stand by Me.’
‘Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)’ by Eurythmics
Annie Lennox’s new wave anthem, written with her musical partner Dave Stewart after their previous band, The Tourists, disbanded, is a powerful song. You have probably heard the repetitive lyrics of this ’80s hit, with its intersecting synthesizer riffs.
‘Born to Run’ by Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen’s hit song “Born to Run” captures the spirit of blue-collar youth and has become a karaoke favorite. Released in 1975, it marked his first chart-topping single and set the stage for years of anthems celebrating hardworking folks.
Even now, when you sing the iconic line “Tramps like us, baby, we were born to run,” it will still captivate the crowd.
‘Rehab’ by Amy Winehouse
From the get-go, the chorus hits you: ‘They tried to make me go to rehab!’ It is fantastic when pop songs dive straight in no beating around the bush. The audience instantly recognizes what you are singing, and they will chime in with a resounding ‘No, no, no!’ However, here is the twist: to do justice to this karaoke gem, you must belt it out while completely under the influence.
Sobriety and this tune? Well, they are like oil and water. If you do not stumble off the stage during that final ‘I won’t go,’ accidentally knocking over a cocktail table and leaving the night adorned with stains, you missed the mark.
‘Killing Me Softly’ by The Fugees
“The Fugees’ hip-hop-infused cover of Roberta Flack’s ballad (originally inspired by Lori Lieberman’s concert experience with ‘American Pie’ troubadour Don McLean) is a hit that shines during karaoke. If you are brimming with confidence or have impressive vocal chops, this song is your jam.
With a minimal drum beat backing you up, you can add your personal touch to Lauryn Hill’s smooth vocal melodies. Moreover, do not hesitate to enlist a hype man for the ‘one time, two time’ moments or to join in on the chorus.
Some Questions
What are best karaoke songs album songs?
Best Karaoke songs album songs are tracks you can sing along to, with the music playing and words shown on a screen.
How do I pick a good karaoke song?
Choose a song you like and can sing well. It’s best if it’s a popular one that others know too!
Are there easy karaoke songs?
Yes, there are many easy songs perfect for beginners or those who just want to have fun without worrying about hitting every note perfectly.
Can I sound good singing karaoke?
Yes, picking the right song for your voice and practicing a bit can help you sound great.
