My Top 10 Karaoke Song List

In my day to day life I don’t like to stereotype or assume anything about any particular person or group of people. The fact of the matter is that everyone is different, and regardless of statistics or commonalities, there are always people who are exceptions to the rule.  But, if I ever had to make any assumption about people in general, it would be the desire to sing.  I think most people who proclaim to hate singing only say as such in order to avoid having to embarrass themselves in public with their (in)ability to sing. But even these people tend to lose themselves in song behind closed doors, in the shower, in the car, or anywhere else void of witnesses

There are those though that enjoy the attention. They lust for the spotlight that is placed upon them when they let their voice soar, regardless if that soaring is a graceful flight or a turbulent ride that ultimately ends in a crash and burn. For either of these types, there is a stage set for them daily across the country and it comes in the form of Karaoke. We all know it, and we’ve all seen it. We have been impressed by some, depressed by others,  and literally sent running by the rest. No matter your talent level, I’ve compiled 10 of the top songs to bring to the table should you be one of the few and the brave who wish to take the stage and cover some of your favorite classics in front of all your drunken friends and coworkers.

10.Neil Diamond - Sweet Caroline - Whether you’re just looking to practice your future career as a lounge singer or serenade that special lady you brought to karaoke for your first date, Neil Diamond has just the song for you. Sweet Caroline is one of the softer and sweeter choices if that’s the mood you are going for.

9.Beatles - Twist and Shout - Ferris Bueller’s Day Off set the standard,  and while you may not be able to up Matthew Broderick, you certainly can try. You’re sure to get some sing a longs from the audience, and maybe a few people twisting and shouting. I mean, who doesn’t love some Beatles?

8.Bon Jovi - Living on a Prayer - A powerful 80s montage anthem if there ever was one. This song is more for the enjoyment of others at your expense. Most people aren’t going to be able to hit the high notes in the chorus, but it will sure be fun to watch you try.

7.Roxanne- The Police - You wont even need a display to scroll the lyrics to you for this one, since about 90% of the song is the same. That aside, it’s a classic and you might find a few people playing a good ol fashion drinking game to your singing. For those of you who don’t know, one person drinks when he sings red light, the other person takes a drink every time he says Roxanne. You’ll find out quickly how much each line is said.

6.Joan Jett and Black Hearts - I Love Rock N Roll - Another one of those 80s tracks that you cant help but love. One of the few songs that is sang by a woman but men absolutely love to cover. You can change all the ‘he’ lyrics to ‘she’ and no one will judge you, don’t worry. If you have a crowd that has any desire to interact, this song should get em going during the chorus.

5.Rolling Stones - I Cant Get No (Satisfaction) - Two words, one name, Mick Jagger. If you can’t sing it, don’t worry, that’s only half the battle here. The rest involves your best Mick Jagger impersonation complete with his signature dance moves. This isn’t a bad choice for those with a little less chops who are still willing to give it 100%.

4.Sweet Home Alabama - Lynyrd Skynyrd  - Once the opening riff starts, you should have everyone’s attention. If you have even a slightly southern or country crowd then you should have everyone singing along with you before the first chorus comes to a close. Chances are you may even be drowned out by everyone else’s singing anyway.

3.Friends in Low Places - Garth Brooks - To be honest I’m not the biggest fan of country music, but even I can’t help but respect and enjoy this song. And if we’re going to be honest, lets realize that half the people in that bar might be trying to drink away their lose in love anyway, just like you’ll be singing about.  This song also tends to sound better the more drunk you get, which is good for probably about everyone.

2.Journey - Don’t Stop Believing - Of all the 80s ballads I’ve mentioned, I don’t think there is any that can top this song.  It may be a bit challenging, but this is another situation where you may have so much support from the audiences that you may not even be heard anyway. This is instant crowd favorite if you’re looking to go all out.

1. Born to be Wild - Steppenwolf - The vocals arent hard, the lyrics are easy, and the music is loud and catchy. The riffs and lyrics combine to make almost anyone look cool, even while doing karaoke. Everyone in the crowd will realize that you’re a free soul that cant be tamed, that you were born to be wild and to rock. My #1 pick if you’re looking to live out that rockstar fantasy, even if its just at a local pub.