“Check, please!”
If you want one to bring the room to life, the answer is “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys. It kills 100% of the time–everyone will sing along. You can’t help it.
A-ha - Take on me
every time
I went to a karaoke night one where there were actual talented singers. There was a lady who did this song, nailing all the high notes.
Her friend followed up with Beyonce - Love on top, and nailed every key change.
Not to be out done, one of their BF’s/Husbands followed that With Bill Withers - Lovely Day, and held all the notes…
My friends and I left. We did not know it was that type of party.
The first time I was at a bar that had karaoke, this dude went up and did ice ice baby. As soon as he starts, five buddies run up there and they all did THE dance, the entire way through, 100% on point. It was amazing.
If you want a fun karaoke night, first song(s) need to be something that will get most everyone singing. Younger crowds: something like Tayor Swift “Shake It Off”. Middle age crowds, something like Nirvana or Aerosmith. Older crowds any Beatles #1.
I personally like Cyprus Hill “Jump Around” if you’re willing to learn it well enough beforehand as to not butcher the lyrics. I’ve seen Vanilla “Ice Ice Baby” also get a similar reaction of everyone knowing the song and enjoying it enough to give you kudos for choosing it.
After everyone’s over the initial hesitation, go belt all your love songs and power ballads; but get the party started first.
Funky Town
