There’s something magical about singing along to a song that everyone knows. Whether it’s at a karaoke night, a road trip, a wedding, or a party, singing along to a familiar tune can bring people together and create unforgettable memories. But what are the songs that everyone knows by heart? What are the songs that can make anyone join in and belt out the lyrics with joy?
We’ve compiled a list of 50 sing-along classics that span different genres, eras, and styles. These are the songs that have stood the test of time and have become part of our collective musical culture. These are the songs that everyone knows, from baby boomers to Gen Z.
So grab your microphone, warm up your vocal cords, and get ready to sing your heart out to these 50 songs everyone knows by heart.
1. Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey
This power ballad from 1981 is one of the most iconic sing-along songs of all time. It has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and video games and has become an anthem for dreamers and believers. The catchy chorus, the soaring vocals, and the uplifting message make this song irresistible to sing along to.
2. I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor
This disco hit from 1978 is a classic empowerment song that celebrates overcoming adversity and moving on from a bad relationship. Numerous artists have covered it, including Cake, Diana Ross, and Demi Lovato, but nothing compares to Gloria Gaynor’s original version. The song has a catchy groove, a memorable melody, and a defiant attitude that make it a perfect sing-along song.
3. Livin’ on a Prayer by Bon Jovi
This rock anthem from 1986 is one of Bon Jovi’s most popular songs and one of the best-selling singles of all time. It tells the story of Tommy and Gina, two working-class lovers who struggle to make ends meet but never give up on their dreams. The song has a catchy hook, a powerful chorus, and a memorable guitar solo that make it a sing-along favourite.
4. Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond
This soft rock song from 1969 is one of Neil Diamond’s signature songs and one of the most beloved sing-along songs ever. It was inspired by Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of President John F. Kennedy, whom Diamond saw in a magazine photo when she was 11 years old. The song has a simple but catchy melody, a cheerful vibe, and a fun “ba ba ba” part that everyone loves to join in.
5. Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen
This rock opera masterpiece from 1975 is one of Queen’s most famous songs and one of the most complex and innovative sing-along songs ever. It combines elements of hard rock, ballads, opera, and music hall and tells the story of a man who kills someone and faces the consequences. The song has multiple sections, each with its own mood and style, but the most memorable part is the operatic section, which features vocal harmonies, dramatic lyrics, and iconic lines like “Mama Mia” and “Galileo”.
6. Hey Jude by The Beatles
This pop-rock ballad from 1968 is one of The Beatles’ most successful songs and one of the longest singles ever released. It was written by Paul McCartney as a comfort to John Lennon’s son Julian during his parents’ divorce. The song has a simple but beautiful melody, an emotional message, and a long but catchy “na na na” outro that makes it a great sing-along song.
7. Dancing Queen by ABBA
This disco pop song from 1976 is one of ABBA’s most popular songs and one of the best-selling singles of all time. It was inspired by George McCrae’s hit “Rock Your Baby” and was written as a tribute to disco music. The song has a catchy groove, a bright melody, and an infectious chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
8. Wonderwall by Oasis
This Britpop song from 1995 is one of Oasis’ most famous songs and one of the most played songs on British radio ever. Noel Gallagher originally intended it as an ode to his then-girlfriend Meg Mathews, but he later claimed that it was actually about an imaginary friend who saves him from himself. The song has a simple but catchy chord progression, a distinctive guitar sound, and a sing-along chorus that make it a timeless hit.
9. Billie Jean by Michael Jackson
This post-disco funk dance pop song from 1983 is one of Michael Jackson’s signature songs and a classic sing-along track. It tells the story of a woman who claims that Jackson is the father of her son, which he denies. The song was a huge hit, reaching number one in several countries and becoming Jackson’s best-selling solo single. The song also showcased Jackson’s iconic dance moves, such as the moonwalk, in the groundbreaking music video, which was one of the first by a black artist to receive heavy rotation on MTV. Numerous artists and comedians have widely covered, sampled, and parodied the song.
10. Purple Rain by Prince
This epic ballad from 1984 is the title track of Prince’s album and film of the same name. It is a song about love, loss, and faith in the face of the end of the world. The song features Prince’s powerful vocals, guitar solos, and gospel influences. The song was a huge success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score. The song also became a symbol of Prince’s musical genius and his unique blend of rock, funk, pop, and soul. Many artists have covered the song, including Etta James, Bruce Springsteen, and Adam Levine.
11. Don’t Stop Me Now by Queen
This rock song from 1978 is one of Queen’s most energetic and upbeat songs and one of the best sing-along songs ever. Freddie Mercury wrote it, drawing inspiration from his hedonistic way of life at the time. The song has a fast tempo, a powerful melody, and a triumphant chorus that make it a sing-along anthem.
12. Respect by Aretha Franklin
This soul song from 1967 is one of Aretha Franklin’s most famous songs and one of the most influential songs of all time. Otis Redding originally wrote and recorded it, but Franklin added new lyrics and elements that transformed it into a feminist anthem. The song has a funky groove, a catchy melody, and a memorable chorus that features the iconic spelling of “R-E-S-P-E-C-T”.
13. I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston
This pop ballad from 1992 is one of Whitney Houston’s most famous songs and one of the best-selling singles of all time. It was originally written and recorded by Dolly Parton in 1973, but Houston’s version was used as the theme song for the movie “The Bodyguard”, in which she starred. The song has a simple but beautiful melody, an emotional message, and a stunning vocal performance that make it a sing-along classic.
14. We Belong Together By Mariah Carey
This R&B song from 2005 is one of the most successful singles of all time. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for 14 weeks and won two Grammy Awards. The song expresses the longing and heartache of a broken relationship and the desire to reunite with a lost love. The smooth melody, the emotional vocals, and the relatable lyrics make this song a perfect sing-along for anyone who has ever felt the pain of separation.
15. Eternal Flame by The Bangles
This soft rock ballad from 1988 is the second single from the Bangles’ third studio album, Everything. It is a song about a deep and lasting love that burns like an eternal flame. The song was inspired by the eternal flames at Elvis Presley’s gravesite and a local synagogue. The song features Susanna Hoffs’ tender vocals and a string arrangement by David Campbell. The song was a worldwide hit, reaching number one in several countries, including the US, UK, Australia, and Sweden. The song has been covered by artists such as Human Nature, Atomic Kitten, and Westlife.
16. Like a Prayer by Madonna
This pop-rock song from 1989 is one of Madonna’s most famous songs and one of the most controversial songs ever. It was written by Madonna and Patrick Leonard, who also produced the song. The song has a catchy groove, a powerful melody, and a gospel-inspired chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
17. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd
This Southern rock song from 1974 is one of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s most popular songs and one of the best sing-along songs ever. It was written by Ronnie Van Zant, Gary Rossington, and Ed King, who were inspired by their love for their home state of Alabama. The song has a catchy riff, a memorable melody, and an iconic chorus that make it a sing-along favourite.
18. Baby One More Time by Britney Spears
This pop song from 1998 is one of Britney Spears’ most famous songs and one of the best-selling singles of all time. It was written by Max Martin, who also produced the song. The song has a catchy groove, a catchy hook, and an infectious chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
19. Mr Brightside by The Killers
This indie rock song from 2003 is one of The Killers’ most successful songs and one of the most played songs on British radio ever. It was written by Brandon Flowers and Dave Keuning, who were inspired by Flowers’ personal experience with jealousy. The song has a fast tempo, an energetic melody, and an anthemic chorus that make it a sing-along favourite.
20. Let It Go by Idina Menzel
This pop song from 2013 is one of Idina Menzel’s most famous songs and one of the best-selling singles of all time. It was written by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez for Disney’s animated movie Frozen, in which Menzel voiced the character of Queen Elsa. The song has a powerful melody, an emotional message, and a catchy chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
21. That Don’t Impress Me Much by Shania Twain
This country-pop song from 1997 is one of the most popular hits of the Canadian singer. It peaked at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was nominated for two Grammy Awards. The song mocks the arrogance and superficiality of men who try to impress women with their looks, wealth, or fame. The upbeat tempo, the sassy vocals, and the humorous lyrics make this song a fun and empowering sing-along for anyone who values personality over appearance.
22. I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing by Aerosmith
This rock ballad from 1998 is the theme song for the sci-fi disaster film Armageddon, in which lead singer Steven Tyler’s daughter Liv Tyler starred. It was written by Diane Warren, who was inspired by a romantic interview with James Brolin and Barbra Streisand. The song expresses the intense love and devotion of a couple who don’t want to miss any moment of each other’s lives. The powerful chorus, the passionate vocals, and the dramatic lyrics make this song a memorable sing-along for anyone who has ever felt the same way.
23. Over The Rainbow by Eva Cassidy
This acoustic ballad from 1992 is a cover of the classic song from The Wizard of Oz, written by Harold Arlen and Yip Harburg. It is a song about longing for a better place and a brighter future. The song features Eva Cassidy’s soulful vocals and guitar accompaniment. The song was recorded live at the Blues Alley jazz club in Washington, D.C., and released posthumously on her 1998 album Songbird. The song became a hit in the UK after it was played by Terry Wogan on his BBC Radio 2 show in 2000. The song has been praised for its emotional depth and simplicity, and it has been used on various occasions to commemorate or celebrate significant events.
24. Someone Exactly Like You by Dinah Caroll
This soulful song from 2001 is a cover of the classic Van Morrison song from 1987. It was featured on the soundtrack of the romantic comedy Bridget Jones’s Diary and reached number three on the UK Singles Chart. The song celebrates the joy of finding a perfect partner after searching all around the world. The warm melody, the expressive vocals, and the heartfelt lyrics make this song a sweet and sentimental sing-along for anyone who has ever found someone exactly like you
25. Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
This folk rock song from 1975 is one of the most beloved songs by the British-American band. It was written by Stevie Nicks, who was contemplating her life choices and her relationship with Lindsey Buckingham at the time. The song reflects on the changes and challenges that come with growing older and wiser, and the fear of losing everything. The acoustic guitar, the harmonious vocals, and the poetic lyrics make this song a timeless sing-along for anyone who has ever faced a landslide in their lives
26. Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana
This grunge song from 1991 is the lead single and opening track from the band’s second album Nevermind. It was written by Kurt Cobain, who said he was trying to write the ultimate pop song in the style of the Pixies. The song became a huge hit and a cultural phenomenon, catapulting Nirvana to fame and making them the voice of a generation. The song is an anthem for apathetic kids who feel alienated and rebellious. The catchy riff, the distorted vocals, and the cryptic lyrics make this song an irresistible sing-along for anyone who has ever felt like a teen spirit
27. I Want It That Way by Backstreet Boys
This pop song from 1999 is one of Backstreet Boys’ most successful songs and one of the best-selling singles of all time. It was written by Max Martin, the Swedish producer behind many pop hits, and was originally intended to have different lyrics, but the band preferred the original version. The song has a smooth melody, a catchy hook, and a harmonious chorus that make it a sing-along favourite.
28. Livin’ la Vida Loca by Ricky Martin
This Latin pop song from 1999 is one of Ricky Martin’s most successful songs and one of the best-selling singles of all time. It was written by Desmond Child and Draco Rosa, who also wrote other hits for Martin. The song has a catchy groove, a lively melody, and an irresistible chorus that make it a sing-along favourite.
29. I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers
This folk rock song from 1988 is one of The Proclaimers’ most famous songs and one of the best sing-along songs ever. It was written by Craig Reid and Charlie Reid, who are twin brothers and members of the band. The song has a simple but catchy chord progression, a humorous melody, and an unforgettable chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
30. Eye of the Tiger by Survivor
This hard rock song from 1982 is one of Survivor’s most famous songs and one of the best-selling singles of all time. It was written by Jim Peterik and Frankie Sullivan, who were inspired by the movie “Rocky III”, in which the song was used as the theme song. The song has a catchy riff, a powerful melody, and a motivational chorus that make it a sing-along anthem.
31. You’re the One That I Want by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John
This pop song from 1978 is one of the most famous songs from the movie “Grease”, in which John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John starred as Danny and Sandy. It was written by John Farrar, who also produced the song. The song has a catchy groove, a catchy hook, and a harmonious chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
32. I’m a Believer by Smash Mouth
This pop rock song from 2001 is one of Smash Mouth’s most popular songs and one of the best sing-along songs ever. It was originally written and recorded by Neil Diamond in 1966, but Smash Mouth’s version was used as the theme song for the movie “Shrek”, in which they also appeared. The song has an upbeat tempo, a catchy melody, and a humorous chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
33. Zombie by The Cranberries
This alternative rock song from 1994 is the lead single from the band’s second album No Need to Argue. It was written by Dolores O’Riordan, who was inspired by the tragic deaths of two young boys in the Warrington bombings, carried out by the IRA in England. The song is a protest against the violence and suffering caused by the Troubles in Northern Ireland, and a plea for peace and humanity. The heavy guitar, the haunting vocals, and the powerful lyrics make this song a moving sing-along for anyone who has ever felt the pain of war
34. Call Me Maybe by Carly Rae Jepsen
This pop song from 2011 is the lead single from Jepsen’s EP Curiosity and her second studio album Kiss. It was written by Jepsen and Tavish Crowe as a folk song, but was transformed into a catchy pop tune by producer Josh Ramsay. The song is about a girl who gives her phone number to a guy she likes and hopes he will call her back. The song became a viral sensation and a global hit, topping the charts in more than 19 countries and selling over 18 million copies worldwide. It was also nominated for two Grammy Awards and won several other accolades. The song is widely considered as one of the most iconic pop songs of the 2010s and one of the best-selling singles of all time.
35. Summer Nights by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John
This pop song from 1978 is another famous song from the movie “Grease”, in which John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John starred as Danny and Sandy. It was written by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, who also wrote the musical “Grease”. The song has a catchy groove, a catchy hook, and a harmonious chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
36. We Will Rock You by Queen
This rock song from 1977 is one of Queen’s most famous songs and one of the best sing-along songs ever. It was written by Brian May, who also played the guitar solo on the song. The song has a simple but catchy rhythm, a powerful melody, and an anthemic chorus that make it a sing-along anthem.
37. Wannabe by Spice Girls
This pop song from 1996 is one of Spice Girls’ most famous songs and one of the best-selling singles of all time. It was written by Spice Girls with Richard Stannard and Matt Rowe, who also produced the song. The song has a catchy groove, a catchy hook, and an infectious chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
38. American Pie by Don McLean
This folk rock song from 1971 is the title track and lead single from McLean’s second studio album. It was written by McLean as a tribute to his musical heroes who died in a plane crash in 1959, namely Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper, and Ritchie Valens. The song also chronicles the social and cultural changes that took place in America from the late 1950s to the early 1970s, using various symbols and references to historical events and figures. The song became a huge hit and a cultural phenomenon, reaching number one in the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, and number two in the UK. It was also nominated for a Grammy Award and ranked as the fifth song of the century by the RIAA. The song is widely regarded as one of the greatest songs of all time and one of the most influential songs in rock history.
39. Every Breath You Take by The Police
This new wave song from 1983 is the lead single from the band’s fifth and final studio album Synchronicity. It was written by Sting, who was inspired by his divorce from his first wife and his obsession with his new lover. The song is about a possessive and jealous lover who watches every move of his ex-partner. The song became a massive hit and a classic of the 1980s, topping the charts in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. It was also nominated for three Grammy Awards, winning two of them, and received several other accolades. The song is widely considered as one of the greatest songs of all time and one of the most misunderstood songs in rock history.
40. My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion
This pop ballad from 1997 is one of Celine Dion’s most famous songs and one of the best-selling singles of all time. It was written by James Horner and Will Jennings for the movie “Titanic”, in which Dion also appeared. The song has a simple but beautiful melody, an emotional message, and a stunning vocal performance that make it a sing-along classic.
41. Take Me Home Country Roads by John Denver
This country folk song from 1971 is one of John Denver’s most famous songs and one of the best sing-along songs ever. It was written by John Denver, Bill Danoff, and Taffy Nivert, who were inspired by a magazine photo of West Virginia. The song has a simple but catchy melody, a cheerful vibe, and a fun “ba ba ba” part that everyone loves to join in.
42. I Want to Hold Your Hand by The Beatles
This pop rock song from 1963 is one of The Beatles’ most famous songs and one of the best-selling singles of all time. It was written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, who also sang the song as a duet. The song has a catchy groove, a catchy hook, and a harmonious chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
43. Don’t Worry Be Happy by Bobby McFerrin
This reggae song from 1988 is one of Bobby McFerrin’s most famous songs and one of the best sing-along songs ever. It was written by McFerrin, who also performed the song using only his voice and body percussion. The song has a catchy groove, a catchy melody, and a positive message that make it a sing-along favorite.
44. Back To Life (However Do You Want Me) by Soul II Soul
This R&B song from 1989 is the second single from the band’s debut album Club Classics Vol. One (titled Keep On Movin’ in the US). It features the vocals of Caron Wheeler and the Reggae Philharmonic Orchestra. The song is about finding strength and joy in life after a difficult period. The song became a huge hit and a classic of the British soul scene, reaching number one in the UK, Netherlands, and Switzerland, and number four in the US. It also won two Grammy Awards and several other accolades. The song is widely regarded as one of the best songs of the 1980s and one of the most influential songs in dance music history
45. You’re the Voice by John Farnham
This pop rock song from 1986 is one of John Farnham’s most famous songs and one of the best sing-along songs ever. It was written by Andy Qunta, Keith Reid, Maggie Ryder, and Chris Thompson, who also sang backing vocals on the song. The song has a powerful melody, a powerful message, and a powerful chorus that make it a sing-along anthem.
46. Girls Just Want to Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper
This pop song from 1983 is one of Cyndi Lauper’s most famous songs and one of the best sing-along songs ever. It was originally written by Robert Hazard in 1979, but Lauper’s version changed the lyrics to make it more feminist and fun. The song has a catchy groove, a catchy melody, and an irresistible chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
47. Sweet Child O’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses
This hard rock song from 1987 is one of Guns N’ Roses’ most famous songs and one of the best-selling singles of all time. It was written by Axl Rose, Slash, Izzy Stradlin, Duff McKagan, and Steven Adler, who also performed the song as a band. The song has a catchy riff, a powerful melody, and an unforgettable chorus that make it a sing-along favourite.
48. Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen
This folk rock song from 1984 is one of Leonard Cohen’s most famous songs and one of the most covered songs ever. It was written by Cohen, who also played the guitar and keyboard on the song. The song has a simple but beautiful melody, an emotional message, and a haunting chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
49. We Are the Champions by Queen
This rock song from 1977 is one of Queen’s most famous songs and one of the best sing-along songs ever. Freddie Mercury, who also performed the lead vocals on the song, wrote it. The song has a powerful melody, a powerful message, and a powerful chorus that make it a sing-along anthem.
50. Imagine by John Lennon
This pop-rock song from 1971 is one of John Lennon’s most famous songs and one of the most influential songs of all time. It was written by Lennon, who also played the piano and sang the vocals on the song. The song has a simple but beautiful melody, an emotional message, and an inspiring chorus that make it a sing-along classic.
Conclusion
These are just some of the many sing-along classics that everyone knows by heart. There are many more songs that can make anyone join in and belt out the lyrics with joy. Singing along to these songs can bring people together and create unforgettable memories.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your microphone, warm up your vocal cords, and get ready to sing your heart out to these 50 songs everyone knows by heart.