Table of Contents
Introduction
Ah, karaoke – the universal equalizer where bathroom singers and closet divas alike find their moment in the spotlight! From humble beginnings in a small Japanese snack bar, where folks would gather around a machine to belt out tunes, karaoke has evolved into a global phenomenon. It’s the go-to for office parties that get too real, and family gatherings where Tita Marites suddenly thinks she’s Whitney Houston.
And what fuels these epic, sometimes cringe-worthy, but always memorable karaoke battles? The songs, syempre! Each decade has bestowed upon us karaoke anthems that have defined generations, from the synth-pop earworms of the 80s to the TikTok-trending bops of the 2020s. In this melodious journey, we’re digging into the top 5 karaoke classics from each decade. Brace yourselves for a trip down memory lane, filled with high notes, dramatic ballads, and maybe a few questionable dance moves. It’s time to find out which songs made us grab the mic and never want to let go!
Karaoke Classics from the 1980s: Synth-Pop and Glam Rock Galore

The 1980s, oh what a time! It was when big hair, neon leggings, and synth-pop ruled the world. The era’s music, a pulsating mix of electrifying pop and glam rock, still gets our hearts racing.
- “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson: This groovy hit is a karaoke classic. With its infectious beat and iconic bassline, it’s a song that makes even the most hesitant singer feel like a pop king or queen.
- “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey: The ultimate feel-good anthem. This song brings everyone together – it’s like the ‘kampai’ moment of karaoke!
- “Take On Me” by A-Ha: Known for its high-flying chorus and catchy synth riff, this track is a playful challenge for any karaoke enthusiast.
- “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley: A pop gem that’s guaranteed to get a laugh and some hearty sing-alongs. Plus, who doesn’t love a good Rickroll?
- “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen: This song brings out the inner rockstar in everyone. Its thumping bass and cool vibe make it a karaoke staple.
Each of these songs encapsulates the vibrant energy of the 80s, making them perpetual favorites in the karaoke scene. So grab the mic and let’s travel back in time, one epic track at a time!
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Karaoke Classics from the 1990s: Grunge Meets Pop Sensations

The 90s: a decade where grunge and pop collided, giving us a playlist that’s as diverse as it is nostalgic.
- “One Week” by Barenaked Ladies: A fast-paced, quirky song with lyrics that challenge even the most seasoned karaoke veterans. It’s a fun and upbeat track that always brings energy to the room.
- “Waterfalls” by TLC: This smooth, R&B hit with its cautionary lyrics and catchy chorus has a way of getting everyone swaying and singing along.
- “Barbie Girl” by Aqua: Love it or hate it, this bubblegum pop song is a karaoke go-to. Its playful lyrics and infectious melody make it impossible not to join in.
- “All Star” by Smash Mouth: This anthem of the 90s is not just a karaoke favorite but a cultural icon. Its feel-good vibes and memorable lyrics make it a crowd-pleaser.
- “Wannabe” by The Spice Girls: A pop powerhouse, this song embodies the spirit of the 90s. It’s the ultimate girl group anthem that’s bound to get everyone, “zig-a-zig-ah”-ing.
Each of these tracks captures the essence of the 90s, making them beloved karaoke choices that bring back memories of a vibrant decade. Let’s put on our nostalgia goggles and sing our hearts out!
Karaoke Classics from the 2000s: The Digital Music Boom

The 2000s were a melting pot of musical styles, fueled by the digital music revolution. Let’s look at the top karaoke hits from this innovative era:
- “Bring Me to Life” by Evanescence: A powerful rock anthem that’s a hit at karaoke nights. Its dramatic blend of rock and classical elements makes for an electrifying performance.
- “Valerie” by Mark Ronson featuring Amy Winehouse: This soulful track, with its catchy rhythm and Winehouse’s iconic vocals, has become a karaoke favorite, perfect for showing off vocal chops.
- “American Boy” by Estelle featuring Kanye West: This song’s smooth groove and catchy lyrics offer a fun and upbeat karaoke experience, appealing to both rappers and singers.
- “Hips Don’t Lie” by Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean: A dance-floor filler, this song is as much about the moves as it is about singing, making it a lively choice for karaoke nights.
- “In the End” by Linkin Park: A genre-defining track of the 2000s, it combines rap and rock, offering karaoke singers a chance to unleash their inner rockstar.
These songs, with their diverse genres and memorable melodies, capture the essence of the 2000s karaoke scene.
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Karaoke Classics from the 2010s: Eclectic Beats and Viral Sensations

The 2010s saw an explosion of diverse musical styles, from indie tunes to chart-topping viral hits. Here’s a look at the karaoke favorites of the decade:
- “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons: This anthem with its powerful chorus and apocalyptic vibes became a karaoke staple, perfect for those who love a dramatic rendition.
- “Last Friday Night” by Katy Perry: A pop sensation that captures the wild spirit of the decade. It’s a fun, upbeat song that brings out the party animal in karaoke singers.
- “Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars: This romantic ballad, with its sweet lyrics and smooth melody, is a favorite for serenading or just showing off vocal finesse.
- “Lonely Boy” by The Black Keys: A rock hit that brings a gritty, energetic vibe to karaoke nights, appealing to those who love a bit of edge in their music.
- “Love Interruption” by Jack White: Less mainstream but deeply impactful, this song offers a unique choice for karaoke enthusiasts looking to explore different genres and showcase a range of vocal styles.
These songs, each with their own unique flair, left a significant mark on karaoke culture during the 2010s, catering to a wide range of musical tastes.
Karaoke Classics from the 2020s: The New Wave of Global Sounds

The early 2020s have been shaped by global trends and the rise of social media, reflecting in the karaoke hits of this era:
- “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus: A powerful, emotive song that’s become a karaoke favorite for its strong vocals and relatable lyrics.
- “Tattoo” by Loreen: This track offers a unique blend of rhythm and melody, perfect for karaoke enthusiasts looking to showcase their vocal range.
- “I’m Just Ken” by Ryna Gosling: A catchy, upbeat song that’s become popular on social media, making it a hit in the karaoke scene.
- “Vampire” by Olivia Rodrigo: With its moody vibe and impactful lyrics, this song appeals to those who enjoy a more contemporary, pop-punk style.
- “Queen Of Kings” by Alessandra: A vibrant track that combines powerful vocals with a catchy tune, making it a fun and energetic choice for karaoke nights.
These songs, reflecting the diverse and global influence of current music trends, are shaping the karaoke culture of the 2020s, making it more inclusive and varied than ever.
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Conclusion
From the electric vibes of the 80s to the diverse sounds of the 2020s, these karaoke favorites have stood the test of time, capturing the hearts of singers across generations. They remind us that karaoke is more than just singing – it’s a celebration of music, memories, and the joy of letting loose. Whether you’re a shower superstar or a karaoke night regular, these songs connect us all.
We’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment with your go-to karaoke anthem and any unforgettable karaoke moments you’ve had. Let’s keep the music playing and the good times rolling!