Finding the perfect karaoke song is an art. Some go straight for the classics, others browse the book until there’s only time for two more songs. Still others toss on Bohemian Rhapsody and make everyone else hate them three minutes into a nine-minute song. Don’t be that person.
Here are the 11 best karaoke songs — from good to great to best — chosen by the team at VinePair. These are nearly impossible to mess up when you’re stuck and looking for the ultimate crowd- pleaser. You’re welcome.
11. Bitch by Meredith Brooks
Start off on an aggressive note with 1990s angst.
10. Fergalicious by Fergie
Listen up, y’all, ‘cause this is it. Everyone will suddenly remember how to sing as soon as this song comes on. Even Stacy.
9. Drops of Jupiter by Train
Train drops karaoke go-tos like few others. Drops of Jupiter is a classic that just won’t go away.
8. The Reason by Hoobastank
A certain subset will be confused by The Reason, or will have completely forgotten about Hoobastank altogether. Don’t. I’m not a perfect person, but The Reason deserves a spot on this list.
7. Oops I Did It Again by Britney Spears
It’s Britney, bitch.
6. Ironic by Alanis
Winning the lottery and dying the next day, that’s ironic. You know what’s not ironic? This song on this list.
5. Escape by Rupert Holmes
We all like Piña Coladas. We also all need to find our love again. Escape with your Karaoke crew.
4. Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond
Throw your arm around the person next to you and sway to the song as you all sing along. It doesn’t matter how bad you are at singing, because everyone will inevitably be singing along with you.
3. Before He Cheats by Carrie Underwood
It’s time to let all of your anger and passion out. Now.
2. Wagon Wheel by Old Crow Medicine Show
Rock me mama like a wagon wheel all the way to karaoke glory.
1. I Want It That Way by the Backstreet Boys
Go back in time to when boy bands were relevant and there was absolutely nothing to mock about five dudes confessing their love while wearing baggy khakis in front of an airplane.
