A Guide to Karaoke Songs
What’s fun in New Jersey? Many people would say that the only fun thing to do is going to New York City. If you think that, you are close to right, but hold your horses. If you are looking for a new local activity, check out one of my favorite New Jersey-accessible entertainments—karaoke. Karaoke originates from Japan. The word is a combination of “kara,” meaning empty; and “oke,” short for “ōkesutora,” meaning orchestra. The way it works is straightforward: using a microphone, you sing along with scrolling lyrics on a TV.
While it is as simple as that, my friends and I always end up having a great time. Not only are we able to release our stress, but we also cultivate precious memories that we can look back upon.
The following list is my categorized karaoke song recommendations.
Dynamic songs fit for a large group setting…
- “Finesse” – Bruno Mars, featuring Cardi B
- “Bang Bang” – Jessie J, featuring Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj
- “Call Me Maybe” – Carly Rae Jepsen
- “What Makes You Beautiful” – One Direction
- “Hotel California” – The Eagles
- “Africa” – TOTO
- “Baby” – Justin Bieber
- “Love Story” – Taylor Swift
- “Party in the U.S.A.” – Miley Cyrus
- “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)” – Katy Perry
We always choose high-energy songs to get it started. The 2000s and 2010s songs are the best—upbeat and widely known. Perhaps they are nostalgic to us Gen Zers, as well.
Passionate vocals…
- “Grenade” – Bruno Mars
- “deja vu” – Olivia Rodrigo
- “When I Was Your Man” – Bruno Mars
- “drivers license” – Olivia Rodrigo
- “Someone Like You” – Adele
- “Stitches” – Shawn Mendes
- “Love” – Keyshia Cole
These have climaxes that require some loud vocals or screaming. What’s a good karaoke if you don’t scream at some point?
Raps…
- “Without Me” – Eminem
- “Beauty and a Beat” – Justin Bieber, featuring Nicki Minaj
- “Super Bass” – Nicki Minaj
- “Run This Town” – Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West
- “The Box” – Roddy Ricch
These are some commonly recognized rap songs. Though some people have a limited memory when it comes to rap lyrics, it’s easy to just follow along with the scrolling lyrics on the TV. You never know how good you are until you try.
Tranquil tunes for when you are “in your feelings”…
- “What Was I Made For?” – Billie Eilish
- “Glimpse of Us” – Joji
- “Doing It Wrong” – Drake
- “White Ferrari” – Frank Ocean
After getting tired of all those shouting songs, these can recharge your energy and allow you to feel something… but they vary, based on my experience.
Lastly, my odd combination of personal favorites…
- “Just the Two of Us” – Grover Washington, Jr., Bill Withers
- “Viva La Vida” – Coldplay
- “Strawberries & Cigarettes” – Troye Sivan
- “All of the Lights” – Kanye West
- “Street Lights” – Kanye West
- “Sorry” – Justin Bieber
While there isn’t any karaoke in Tenafly, you can find them scattered in Palisades Park and Fort Lee. Here are locations I’ve been to and recommend: Healing Karaoke, NRB Karaoke in Rodeo, and DAEBAK KARAOKE.
Karaoke is truly an enjoyable experience, either when you are with friends, or by yourself. It brings people together, lets us share a special moment, and creates bonds. While it is easily accessible and affordable, it also fosters a sense of ease and freedom. So if you haven’t already tried, give it a shot!
