20 of the Easiest Karaoke Songs for Your Next Night Out

By: Marie Look  | 
Table the complex vocal arrangements and bust out the crowd-pleasers on your next karaoke night. wera Rodsawang / Getty Images

When it’s your turn to step up to the karaoke stage, choosing the right song can make all the difference. To help you out, we've compiled 20 of the easiest karaoke songs so you can croon a crowd-pleaser with confidence.

Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a karaoke newcomer, the keys to a successful karaoke performance are picking an easy song with a catchy melody, simple lyrics and a straightforward vocal arrangement.

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We took all of those things into consideration when choosing these easy karaoke songs. So, get ready to grab the microphone, step onto the karaoke stage and let these famous songs guide you into legendary status on your next karaoke night!

6 Bumpin' Crowd-pleasers

1. 'Love Shack' by The B-52's

Here's a fun, quirky song that’s surprisingly easy to perform, making it a great choice for karaoke newcomers. The song's reggae-infused rhythm will make it a hit with the audience, while the simple melody will ensure you walk away from the mic looking like a karaoke star.

You can speak-sing your way through the verses just like lead vocalist Fred Schneider, then repeat the song's title several times in each chorus, and you're golden.

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2. 'Flowers' by Miley Cyrus

A modern hit, "Flowers" by Miley Cyrus features a straightforward vocal line and relatable lyrics, making it an accessible and popular choice for karaoke singers of all levels.

If you usually struggle with high the notes on other karaoke tracks, choosing a song by Cyrus makes a lot of sense. As a mezzo-soprano, the pop star possesses a vocal range that's more approachable if you don't consider yourself to be a soprano.

3. 'I Wanna Dance With Somebody' by Whitney Houston

You wouldn't think a song by the iconic Whitney Houston — who had one of the most impressive vocal ranges of all time — would be a good choice, and yet you can safely call this uplifting anthem from the '80s one of the easiest karaoke songs.

Although it has a fast tempo (at 119 beats per minute), the song’s repetitive chorus and straightforward chord structure make it approachable for novice singers. Plus, its high energy and relatable lyrics make it a crowd-pleaser that’s hard for people to resist. In terms of range, don't be afraid to knock the high note on "I wanna feel the heat" down a couple octaves.

4. 'Don't Stop Believin'' by Journey

There's a simple reason this timeless anthem has played at every single wedding reception you've ever attended: "Don't Stop Believin'" is nothing but pure, feel-good vibes.

This is a song practically everyone in the karaoke world knows. And with its narrow vocal range requirement, themes of romance and hope, repetitive lyrics and uplifting message, it appeals to everyone.

The straightforward melody makes it easy to hit all the notes, although you can get as fancy as you want on the vocal riffs.

5. '... Baby One More Time' by Britney Spears

As far as karaoke tracks go, it might not get any better than this major pop hit by the one and only Britney Spears. With repetitive lyrics and a very simple melody, this bop has an ultra-catchy chorus and allows for a little flair, too, if you want to throw in some Britney-style arm choreography.

This is a great choice for karaoke newcomers who want to perform a pop hit with an infectious rhythm.

6. 'It's Raining Men' by The Weather Girls

This upbeat and fun track is a karaoke favorite for its infectious energy and memorable chorus. "It's Raining Men" is easy to sing along to or shout along to, and one of the most beloved karaoke songs to put in the queue on a bachelorette night or at a birthday party.

If you're nervous about taking the stage alone, bring a group up to sing this one with you. Then it really becomes a party.

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7 Classic Throwbacks

1. 'Dancing Queen' by ABBA

Now let's throw it back to a classic. Yes, this hit by ABBA may require a little more in the vocal range department than the other songs on this list, but it has an infectious rhythm that gets everyone on the dance floor.

The joyful melody is uncomplicated, and the catchy chorus and upbeat tempo will ensure everyone remembers your turn at the mic as a fun one, even if you didn't hit every single note or flubbed a lyric or two.

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Choose this if the crowd at your next karaoke party is already warmed up — you'll have a guaranteed hit on your hands.

2. 'Genie in a Bottle' by Christina Aguilera

This catchy pop hit could be the way to go if you're looking for some late '90s nostalgia. With its slow to moderate tempo, simple hook and repetitive chorus, it’s an accessible pop hit, whether you're a karaoke novice or veteran.

The chorus doesn't throw any wildly high or low notes at you, making it easy for you to sing — or even speak-sing — along to it while staying on rhythm. Want to do more? You can always re-create Christina Aguilera's moves from the iconic music video (crop top optional).

3. 'I Want It That Way' by Backstreet Boys

Another nostalgic favorite from the late '90s, "I Want It That Way" is a mid-tempo karaoke staple. The catchy chorus and earnest, simple lyrics make it perfect for getting the crowd involved. If you're more comfortable sharing the stage with several friends, this is another good choice for a group sing-a-long. Better yet, wear your best boy band attire to really sell the performance.

4. 'Hey Jude' by The Beatles

One of the most famous songs in the karaoke world (and arguably, one of the most famous songs of all time), "Hey Jude" by The Beatles checks nearly all the boxes required to label it one of the best easy karaoke songs.

Its repetitive lyrics and steady tempo of 74 beats per minute allow karaoke enthusiasts to sing along without worrying about what's coming up next. Plus the famous “na-na-na” chorus is easy to remember and perfect for getting the crowd singing.

Just note that if you want your turn on the stage to be a short one, there may be better options than this seven-minute-long tune (which is still a far cry from the longest song ever.

5. 'Sweet Caroline' by Neil Diamond

"Sweet Caroline" is a timeless classic, a crowd favorite and a popular karaoke song. Its repetitive chorus encourages participation, and Neil Diamond's easy execution of the gentle melody, with its simple chord progression, is the opposite of intimidating for novice singers who want to emulate his heartfelt rendition.

As a bonus, the song's unhurried tempo of just 63 beats per minute makes it easy to stay in tune.

6. 'Hound Dog' by Elvis Presley

This oldie is a goodie for a reason. "Hound Dog" keeps a vivacious tempo and is an iconic rock 'n' roll hit that features straightforward lyrics and a catchy rhythm, making it perfect for karaoke. It's a fun and energetic song that's easy to perform, but the rests between lyrics mean you won't be gasping for air as you sing.

This crowd-pleaser is sure to get everyone involved and singing along, so put it at the top of your list. And maybe practice some of the King's hip moves in the mirror in advance.

7. 'Say You’ll Be There' by Spice Girls

Grab four of your best friends and cue up "Say You'll Be There" by the Spice Girls. This '90s pop hit is known for its catchy chorus and simple melody, plus the spoken rhyme that comes up about three minutes into the four-minute song is just so satisfying to perform, especially if there's more than one of you on stage.

This is a great choice for a fun and lively group performance that everyone will be talking or texting about the next day.

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4 Heartfelt Ballads

1. 'Because of You' by Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson is practically synonymous with powerful pop-rock anthems, and "Because of You" is a prime example. It features a recognizable chorus, easy-to-follow lyrics and plenty of pauses where you can take a breath.

Although you can belt it out powerfully like Clarkson herself, the song doesn't require a particularly wide vocal range if you forgo her fanciest vocal riffs. It's admittedly not a perfect choice for karaoke newcomers, but it's an easy selection for veterans who want to make a strong impression.

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2. 'Hallelujah' by Leonard Cohen

Another timeless classic on this list, "Hallelujah" is famous for its simple melody, sincere lyrics and moderate tempo. This song is an ideal choice if you want to deliver a more emotional performance. Odds are good it will temporarily bring down the energy in the room a few notches.

However, that could be exactly what you want if you're looking to have your spotlight moment. And depending on the crowd's familiarity with the song, you might find them all singing right along with you.

3. 'Take Me Home, Country Roads' by John Denver

Choose this feel-good folk gem if you prefer a more laid-back vibe on the karaoke stage and want to perform something that leans a little more country. With its gentle melody, easy-to-remember words, and vocal range perfect for a tenor, this 1970s single by John Denver is just as fun to perform as it is for the crowd to sing along to.

Its simple chord progression and heartfelt lyrics make it a perfect choice for a sincere, emotive performance. It's one of the best songs to sing at the end of the night or any time you want to keep things mellow.

4. 'All Too Well' by Taylor Swift

If you find Taylor Swift's emotive performance of "All Too Well" to be intimidating, think again. Although this song is lengthy (especially if you opt for the stamina-testing 10-minute version), this tender ballad's medium tempo, relatable lyrics and straightforward melody make it surprisingly approachable and a favorite in a certain crowd.

If you've arrived at karaoke night looking for your star moment, here's your chance to really milk your karaoke performance. Make it as emotional and as overwrought with drama as you choose.

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3 More Go-to Tracks

1. 'Horse With No Name' by America

If you like karaoke tracks with chill vibes and are tired of hearing one love song after another, consider this one. The folk-rock classic is built around just a single chord and features a soothing vocal line and simple, repetitive chorus.

We're not saying you want to speak-sing your entire way through it, but you could if you wanted to, thanks to the song's unhurried tempo and gentle melody. Plus, a good portion of the song is just singing "la-la-la" over and over again. It's a great choice for novice singers looking for an easy yet impactful karaoke performance.

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2. 'Hotel California' by Eagles

This is one of the best easy karaoke songs if you want to create a more mellow atmosphere on the karaoke stage. Known for its distinctive guitar riff and relaxed tempo, "Hotel California" is a laid-back song that’s easy to sing.

The vocal arrangement is nothing fancy, and the rhymes just keep coming, making every lyric so satisfying. Trust us, no crowd can resist joining in on this anthemic hit's smooth melody.

3. 'I'm Yours' by Jason Mraz

If you've thought that any song by Jason Mraz would be a tough karaoke pick, you weren't thinking of "I'm Yours." Although the artist is known for his typically complex lyrics requiring vocal gymnastics, this song is an outlier.

With its gentle, reggae-infused rhythm and slow, 70-beats-per-minute tempo, "I'm Yours" can be your go-to track for a relaxed karaoke experience. The song’s simple melody makes it an easy and enjoyable track to perform, and the tender message is sure to get the audience emotionally involved.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.

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