80s Karaoke Songs

Our selection of 80s karaoke songs is a mixture of Rock, Pop, and Dance genres, that captured the spirit and sound of the 1980s music era. Gone were the days of disco-themed songs and in came the use of synthesizers.

As a DJ, I have hosted many karaoke parties, and these are the top 80s songs requested for that 80s karaoke performance. So, take a chance on one of these 80s songs when you're out on a night out and stumble upon a karaoke machine. You could also be at a karaoke gig or even just hosting some friends at your 80s-themed house party and want to impress them. Let us tuck into the list of 80s hit songs that are good for karaoke.

(I've Had) The Time Of My Life – Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes

Movie: Dirty Dancing

Released: 1987

This is a popular and enjoyable 80s karaoke song to perform. “(I've Had) The Time Of My Life” featured in the iconic film "Dirty Dancing," which helped it gain immense popularity. This song won both the Academy Award and Golden Globe for Best Original Song so you are sure that your audience would be familiar with this 80s hit song.

Africa – Toto

Released: 1982

Album: Toto IV

This song would be a fantastic 80s karaoke song choice for someone who enjoys singing a song with uplifting lyrics. “Africa by Toto has 2 verses, 3 choruses, and a bridge. If you want to get your audience involved and bring a sense of nostalgia to your karaoke session, then “Africa” is an excellent 80s karaoke pick.

Billie Jean – Michael Jackson

Released: 1982

Album: Thriller

Billie Jean is a song that won 3 Grammy Awards, 3 AMA’s, and 2 Billboard Music Awards amongst other awards won across the world. If you are a confident dancer and full of energy, then this should be your choice for an 80s karaoke performance. MJ’s iconic moonwalk dance from the TV special "Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever" should be in your mind when performing this song.

Born in the USA – Bruce Springsteen

Released: 1984

Album: Born in the U.S.A.

If you've got that American pride running through you, then this fantastic 80s karaoke anthem is the song for you to perform. The lyrics are about young men returning home after fighting in the Vietnam War. This is an iconic 80s rock song that would resonate with a large variety of audiences and would get them singing the chorus with you.

Careless Whisper – George Michael

Released: 1984

Album: Make It Big

"Careless Whisper" is a timeless ballad that showcases George Michael's soulful vocals and emotional delivery. This melodic ballad was his first song as a sole artist, and it became one of his most popular hit songs. The song is about a cheat regretting his actions while acknowledging he has no chance of getting his love back. This would be a great 80s karaoke song to perform. You can guarantee that the audience would be familiar with the lyrics and would sing along with you.

Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey

Released: 1981

Album: Escape

If you are looking for a song that stands for holding onto hope, following dreams, and persevering through challenges. “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey would be a great karaoke song to motivate the crowd. Also, someone might just need to hear you sing this to inspire him/her to persevere. The vocals are enjoyable to sing and would definitely provide that nostalgic environment.

Endless Love – Lionel Richie & Diana Ross

Album: All the Great Hits

Released: 1981

If you are looking to recreate a harmonious ballad then “Endless Love” by Lionel Richie & Diana Ross is your go-to song pick. This is an iconic song by two of the great voices in music. Diana Ross and Lionel Richie’s vocals intertwine harmoniously to create this classic ballad. You can be guaranteed that if done right, love would be flowing in the air amongst the audience.

Every Breath You Take – The Police

Released: 1983

Album: Synchronicity

Sting's distinctive vocals and the guitar riff would make this song an enjoyable track to perform. "Every Breath You Take" is a Grammy Award winner for “Song of the Year.” It has a universal appeal and can create a captivating and nostalgic atmosphere during an 80s karaoke sing-off experience.

Every Little Step – Bobby Brown

Released: 1988

Album: Don't Be Cruel

If your girlfriend or wife is in the crowd and you want to impress her, then this should be your choice of 80s song for an 80s karaoke display. So far you are comfortable with a little rap verse. “Every Little Step” by Bobby Brown is about commitment to the one you love and promising to stand by them no matter what.

Eye Of The Tiger – Survivor

Released: 1982

Album: Eye of the Tiger

You are going through a list of 80s songs to find a motivational and determination track for a karaoke sing-off, this is your song. "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor is a song that is synonymous with courage and motivation. It is powerful and engaging, it would create a charged atmosphere in the room.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper

Released: 1983

Album: She's So Unusual

If you are out with the girls on a fun night and just want to let your hair down in a karaoke bar, this is the song you can all sing along to. “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper is an upbeat song with fun lyrics to bleat out. You would find it fun if you all grab a mic to sing the chorus together and it will surely be a remarkable performance.

Hit Me With Your Best Shot – Pat Benatar

Released: 1980

Album: Crimes of Passion

If you have been heartbroken, don’t worry about it, dust yourself up and try again. This is the theme of “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” by Pat Benatar. The lyrics portray a woman who will not let heartbreak hold her back. If you are going through some tough times and determined not to let it define you then this should be your request 80s karaoke song.

Just Called To Say – Stevie Wonder

Released: 1984

Album: The Woman in Red

When looking through a list of 80s songs to perform at a karaoke club, find one that would resonate with a universal audience. “Just Called To Say” by Stevie Wonder is a beautiful and heartfelt soulful song that would create a sentimental occasion during your sing-off. At the end of your stage show, you are guaranteed to leave the place warm and happy.

I Love Rock’ N’ Roll – Joan Jett and The Blackhearts

Released: 1981

Album: I Love Rock 'n Roll

If you want to make a statement karaoke performance with a rock song, then look no further than this universally known rock song. As a DJ,  this is the most requested rock song that I have had from participants attempting an 80s karaoke performance. “I Love Rock ‘N’ Roll” is a big 80s rock song that also did very well in the charts at the time.

I Wanna Dance with Somebody – Whitney Houston

Released: 1987

Album: Whitney

If you are going for the entertaining and engaging karaoke experience then look no further than a dance-pop number. One of the biggest of them all is “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by the iconic Whitney Houston. This song won many major awards including a Grammy for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance (1988). This track gives you the opportunity of having a lively performance that would engage the crowd and if you can hit those high notes then you are a winner.

I Wanna Know What Love Is – Foreigner

Released: 1984

Album: Agent Provocateur

If you are going for that song that you can perform on a mellow but still get the crowd moving and swinging from side to side “I Wanna Know What Love Is” is perfect. The karaoke version would have the gospel back up in it, so you can perform like a pro. The song lyrics referenced hurt and heartbreak and the desire to move on from that to experience something special.

Livin’ on a Prayer – Bon Jovi

Released: 1986

Album: Slippery When Wet

There are rock songs and there are hit rock anthems, “Livin’ on a Prayer” is a hit rock anthem. This is a song that spent 4 weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart at the time of its release. Choosing this song at an 80s karaoke sing-off offers you the opportunity for high-energy performance and you can easily engage the audience with its infectious chorus and uplifting message.

Material Girl – Madonna

Released: 1984

Album: Like a Virgin

This hit song from the pop queen is one of the most requested 80s female pop songs I get from participants in an 80s karaoke contest. "Material Girl" is an iconic pop anthem that has become synonymous with Madonna's style and image. If you are ready to deliver a memorable and entertaining performance for the audience, then this should be your choice of 80s pop classic.

Never Gonna Give You Up – Rick Astley

Released: 1987

Album: Whenever You Need Somebody

If you are looking to perform an 80s song at your next karaoke event and want a song that will promise forever love, then you have found the right song. “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley is a popular pop song from the 1980s with lyrics that makes promises of commitment and contentment to the one you love. The lyrics are fun to sing and imitating Rick Astley’s voice could be a winner.

Pour Some Sugar On Me – Def Leppard

Released: 1987

Movie: Coyote Ugly

“Pour Some Sugar On Me’s” memorable guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and catchy hooks make it enjoyable to sing and perform. "Pour Some Sugar On Me" has a universal appeal and can create an electric and lively atmosphere during karaoke. If you appreciate rock classics and want to deliver a memorable and high-energy karaoke performance, this song is an excellent choice.

Tainted Love – Soft Cell

Released: 1981

Album: Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret

If you are looking for a song that portrays a toxic and dysfunctional relationship, then this is the song for you to perform. "Tainted Love" delves into the feelings of disillusionment, betrayal, and emotional turmoil that can arise when love turns sour. If you are brave enough to show your feelings by performing this song, then you would have delivered a captivating karaoke performance.

Don't You (Forget About Me) – Simple Minds

Released: 1985

Album: The Breakfast Club

"Don't You (Forget About Me)" by Simple Minds is a great 80s karaoke song choice. It offers opportunities for expressive performances and engaging the audience with its emotive lyrics. The song's catchy melody, memorable hooks, and heartfelt lyrics make it enjoyable to sing and perform. Do this right and you would be leaving the stage to a round of applause.

Take on Me – A-ha

Released: 1985

Album: Hunting High and Low

This is an 80s pop song with a theme of the desire for a deep and meaningful relationship, overcoming obstacles, and the pursuit of genuine connection with the one you love. It captures the excitement and vulnerability of embarking on a romantic journey. You can definitely perform this number to wow a lover to take a chance on you. 

Part-Time Lover – Stevie Wonder

Released: 1985

Album: In Square Circle

A secret affair? Hmmm. This song’s lyrics explore the complexities and risks involved in being involved with someone who is already in a committed relationship. The thrill, the danger of a clandestine romance, and the emotional conflicts that arise from such situations. Despite the lyrical meaning, this upbeat and catchy R&B number is a hit-requested song on those 80s karaoke nights I have hosted.

The Final Countdown – Europe

Released: 1986

Album: The Final Countdown

"The Final Countdown" by Europe is a fantastic 80s karaoke song choice. The song captures the excitement and tension leading up to a significant moment. If you appreciate the rock band Europe and want to deliver a memorable high-energy karaoke performance, this song is an excellent choice. It conveys a sense of determination and the anticipation of a climactic event about to unfold.

The Power of Love – Huey Lewis & The News

Released: 1985

Album: Back to the Future: Music from the Motion Picture Soundtrack

This song celebrates love as a force that can bring joy, strength, and a sense of fulfillment. It emphasizes the power of love to overcome obstacles and inspire greatness in individuals. This song resonates with people around the world so performing this number would go down well with the audience.

True – Spandau Ballet

Released: 1983

Album: True (Special Edition)

If you are looking to perform a song that reflects on the authenticity of deep love, this would be the right number. The song explores the concept of true love as a rare and precious connection that transcends between people. It expresses the longing for genuine affection and the desire to find a love that is genuine and honest.

Under Pressure – David Bowie and Queen

Released: 1981

Movie: Bohemian Rhapsody

The track is a powerful and iconic collaboration between two legendary artists. The song's memorable melodic chorus and the combination of Bowie’s and Queen's styles make it enjoyable to sing and perform. "Under Pressure" has a universal appeal and can create a powerful and energetic atmosphere during your 80s karaoke show-off performance.

Walk This Way – Run DMC

Released: 1986

Album: Raising Hell

You and a couple of friends are looking to put on a show for the crowd. If you are looking for an 80s song that combines Hip-Hop and rock seamlessly then you have found the right song in “Walk This Walk.” This song infuses both genres perfectly into one song. One of you or your friends has to be comfortable doing the rap verse though.

Walking On Sunshine – Katrina and The Waves

Released: 1983

Album: Walking on Sunshine

If you want a create a feel-good atmosphere in the room at a karaoke night, then ask the DJ to give you the instrumentals for “Walking On Sunshine. The song radiates positivity and celebrates the feeling of being in love and embracing life's sunny moments. It captures the uplifting spirit of embracing happiness and letting go of your worries. This tune gives infectious energy that encourages your crowd to bust a move and sing along.

What’s Love Got To Do With It – Tina Turner

Released: 1984

Album: Private Dancer

This song challenges traditional notions of romance and explores the importance of personal freedom and independence. It cries out for self-empowerment and resilience, suggesting that love alone is not enough to sustain a fulfilling and healthy union. You need to sing this from the depth of your heart to get the right emotive feeling in your voice.

Final Thoughts on 80s Karaoke Songs: Time to Sing!

Karaoke nights are a fantastic way to let loose, have fun, and relive the magic of the 80s. We hope you would attempt one or more of these 80s karaoke songs at your next performance and add this playlist to your 80s theme party ideas.

Choose a song that showcases your vocal strengths and matches your personality. Ensure you practice beforehand to ensure confidence and familiarity with the lyrics.  

While performing, ensure you engage the audience with energetic stage presence, eye contact, and try to show some genuine emotion. The most important thing to remember when you take center stage with these iconic 80s karaoke songs is, to have fun and let your passion shine through your performance.

If you like this karaoke playlist then check out our 80s Dance Songs. For more, please follow Music Jug on Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

FAQs on 80s Karaoke Songs

1. How do I choose the right 80s karaoke song for me?

This is a very good question. When selecting a karaoke song, consider your vocal range, personal preferences, and the type of atmosphere you want to create. Choose a song that will resonate with you, the people listening, and your singing style.

2. Can I practice karaoke at home before the party?

Yes, practicing your chosen karaoke song at home will boost your confidence and make you more comfortable when performing your song in front of an audience. You can make use of free online karaoke platforms or apps to practice singing along with the songs.

3. Can I request specific songs at a karaoke bar?

Yes, most karaoke bars allow song requests because they are aware you might have been practicing a particular song. So don't hesitate to ask the DJ or host if they have a particular song you'd like to sing.

4. What if I'm feeling nervous about singing in front of others?

We all get nervous the first time out, however, remember karaoke is all about having fun and enjoying yourself. Everyone is there to have a good time, so don't worry too much about being perfect, it is not a job interview. Just embrace the moment and the inner superstar in you shine!

5. Are 80s karaoke songs suitable for all age groups?

Yes, you would be amazed at the number of kids that know songs from the 80s. The beauty of 80s karaoke songs lies in their timeless appeal, making them suitable for all age groups. Everyone can join in the fun and sing along to these 80s classic hits, from kids to parents to grandparents.

6. Are there any legal implications if I use these songs for karaoke events?

When using karaoke tracks for personal use, there are usually no legal issues. However, if you are at a karaoke bar, they would already have a legal license.

7. Do I need to be a professional singer to perform karaoke?

Not at all! Karaoke is all about having fun and enjoying the experience. It's not a competition, so feel free to sing with enthusiasm regardless of your singing abilities.

8. What if I want to host a karaoke party at home?

You bet you can! Hosting a karaoke party at home with friends is a very good idea. If you have speakers (my favorite are Sonos Wireless Speakers) and a mic, you can make use of online karaoke platforms. So gather your friends and family, to enjoy a night of singing.