100 Most Popular Karaoke Songs of All Time

Karaoke LED signage. Photo by Nikola Đuza. Unsplash

100 Most Popular Karaoke Songs of All Time

Concerts are the best way for us to connect with our favorite artists, but karaoke is where we truly bond with our favorite songs. Whether at a solo mic on stage in a strange and sparsely populated bar or packed in a room with a dozen of our closest and most animated friends, karaoke allows pop music fans to not only celebrate but also crawl inside those tunes, to become an essential part of them.

With a cheaply made non-sequitur music video, a pitcher of domestic beer, and a tambourine, any random Thursday night downtown could become the most transcendent musical experience of your entire year.

1. George Ezra’s Shotgun

“Shotgun” is a song about riding shotgun in a car, as the title suggests. The singer is describing how he will ride shotgun with his friends and how they will have a great time. The song is upbeat and positive, and the narrator clearly enjoys spending time with his friends. The song is also about freedom, with the narrator looking forward to feeling the wind in his hair as they drive.

2. Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond

Neil Diamond wrote the song Sweet Caroline in 1969. Caroline Kennedy, President John F. Kennedy’s daughter, is the subject of the song. “Sweet Caroline (Good Times Never Seemed So Good)” was the song’s original title, but it was later shortened to just “Sweet Caroline.” 

Sweet Caroline has been covered by a variety of artists, including Michael Bublé, Kid Rock, and the Glee cast.

3. Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper’s Shallow (From “A Star Is Born”)

American singer-songwriter Lady Gaga and American actor and filmmaker Bradley Cooper collaborated on the song Shallow. The song was released as the lead single from the soundtrack album for the 2018 film A Star Is Born on September 27, 2018. Gaga, Cooper, Andrew Wyatt, Anthony Rossomando, and Mark Ronson wrote the song, which she produced with Benjamin Rice.

The song is a ballad with country music influences, and the lyrics describe the ups and downs of a relationship. The song peaked at number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number one on the Digital Songs chart in the United States. It has sold over 10 million copies worldwide and has been straemed over 500 million times.

4.  A Million Dreams by The Greatest Showman

“A Million Dreams” is a song from the film The Greatest Showman. Benj Pasek and Justin Paul wrote the lyrics, and Justin Hurwitz composed the music. Zendaya is the singer of the song.

“A Million Dreams” is a ballad with a positive message about pursuing one’s dreams. The lyrics encourage the listener to never give up on their dreams, no matter how difficult they appear to be. A piano and orchestra accompany the song, creating a sweeping and emotive sound.

At the 90th Academy Awards, the song was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

5. Someone You Loved by Lewis Capaldi

Lewis Capaldi is a singer-songwriter from Scotland. He was born in Glasgow, Scotland, on October 7, 1996. His debut album, Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent, debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart in 2019. Capaldi’s singles “Someone You Loved” and “Before You Go” both charted at number one in the United Kingdom.

6. Angels by Robbie Williams

Robbie Williams wrote the song Angels. It was released as a single in December 1997 and topped the UK charts in February 1998. The song has been dubbed Williams’ “signature song,” and it has been covered by a variety of artists.

7. This is me by The Greatest Showman

The Greatest Showman is a 2017 musical drama film. The story is based on P. T. Barnum’s creation of the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Hugh Jackman plays P. T. Barnum, Zac Efron plays Phillip Carlyle, Zendaya plays Anne Wheeler, and Rebecca Ferguson plays Jenny Lind in the film.

The film was both critically and commercially successful. It received four Golden Globe nominations, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and Best Actor – Musical or Comedy for Hugh Jackman. It was also nominated for three Academy Awards, with “This Is Me” winning one for Best Original Song.

8. Perfect by Ed Sheeran

“Perfect” is a song by English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran from his third studio album, “The Perfect Place” (2017). As one of the album’s advance singles, the song was released as a digital download on September 26, 2017. The song reached number one on both the UK Singles Chart and the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, becoming Sheeran’s first number-one single in both countries.

Ed Sheeran wrote “Perfect,” which was produced by Benny Blanco. It’s a romantic ballad with lyrics about having the perfect relationship. Music critics praised the song’s romantic lyrics and Sheeran’s vocal performance, and it received positive reviews.

“Perfect” was a commercial success, reaching number one in several countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia.In the United Kingdom, the song debuted at number one on the UK Singles Chart, becoming Sheeran’s sixth number-one single in the country. In the United States, the song debuted at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and later rose to number one, becoming Sheeran’s fourth number-one single in the country.

The song has been certified multi-platinum in a number of countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. It has also received several nominations for awards, including the Grammy Award for Song of the Year and the Brit Award for Best British Single.

9. Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen

Freddie Mercury wrote the song for the band’s 1975 album A Night at the Opera. The song is a six-minute suite that includes an intro, a ballad segment, an operatic passage, a hard rock section, and a reflective coda.

The song is a more approachable take on the progressive rock genre of the 1970s. When it was released, the song was a commercial success, reaching number one in many countries around the world. In the United Kingdom, it became the Christmas number one and has sold over a million copies. Various publications have named Bohemian Rhapsody one of the greatest songs of all time.

10. My Way by Frank Sinatra

The song was written by Claude François, a French songwriter, and Paul Anka, an Italian songwriter. The song debuted as a single in 1969 and was later included on Sinatra’s album of the same name. The song is regarded as one of Sinatra’s signature songs.

11. Is This The Way To Amarillo by Tony Christie

Neil Sedaka and Howard Greenfield wrote the song. Tony Christie recorded it in 1971 and released it as a single in 1972. The song was a hit in several countries, including the United Kingdom and Ireland, where it reached number one.

In 2004, a version of the song performed by British comedian Peter Kay became a UK hit, peaking at number one for seven weeks.

12.Your Song by Elton John

Your song was Elton John’s first international top 10 chart single, peaking at number 7 in the UK. The song debuted in 1970 and has been covered by a variety of artists, including Rod Stewart, Lady Gaga, and Ellie Goulding.

13. Shania Twain-“Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” (1998)

This country classic does not require you to be in Nashville to perform it. It’s a crossover smash in every sense of the word, from country to pop to young to old. So break out your men’s shirts and short skirts and let it all hang out — after all, the best part about karaoke is the freedom to have some fun.

14. Backstreet Boys- I want it that Way

“‘I Want It That Way’ is the ultimate karaoke song for a variety of reasons… It immediately dismantles anyone in the bar who takes themselves seriously. Then it incorporates this call-and-response lyric… You have the audience involved, and it allows them to join in and express how much they enjoy the song as well.

If you ask anyone between the ages of 10 and 40, almost everyone on the planet will know the entire lyrics to that song. It simply works. It covers all of the bases. It has that guilty pleasure factor, and it’s epic near the end when you hit that big belting note.

15. Gloria Gaynor- I will survive

It’s a popular choice for people who want to write epic songs. It’s a very inspirational song that never fails to please the audience.

The song is about moving on after a bad relationship and is a female empowerment anthem. It has since taken on new meanings for people who have overcome adversity, but Dino Fekaris revealed it was about being fired from Motown Records, where he was a staff writer.

16. Nicki Minaj- Super Bass

Super Bass,” which was originally released as a Pink Friday deluxe edition cut on April 5, 2011, quickly became a massive hit. Nicki raps about love and legitimate industry dudes in the song.

Nicki described the song as follows: “Super Bass” is about the boy you’re crushing on, […] And you want to get your mack on, but you’re being playful about it.

The single was certified Diamond in November 2021. It was also Nicki’s highest charting solo single, peaking at #3 in the United States until “Anaconda” surpassed it in 2014.

17. Garth Brooks- Friends in Low Places

There’s something about Garth Brooks’ music that makes you feel like you can relate to it no matter who you are. Whatever your situation… It’s definitely one of those bar songs where if someone starts singing it, everyone else starts singing along. It makes no difference. Age and gender are irrelevant.

18. Bonnie Tyler- Total Eclipse of the heart

Bonnie Tyler’s song “Total Eclipse of the Heart” is a ballad. Jim Steinman wrote and produced it, and it appeared on Tyler’s fifth studio album, Faster Than the Speed of Night (1983). CBS/Columbia released the song as a single in 1983.

Tyler’s biggest career hit, topping the UK Singles Chart and becoming the fifth-best-selling single in the United Kingdom in 1983.

19. Brandy and Monica- The Boy is Mine

“The Boy Is Mine” is a duet by female r&b singers Brandy and Monica from 1998. The lyrics of the song, which were inspired by Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson’s 1982 duet “The Girl Is Mine,” tell the story of two women arguing over a man’s love. At the time, rumors circulated that Brandy and Monica disliked each other. Brandy stated, “We took the song and brought humor to a situation that people had tried to make so serious.” “The Boy Is Mine,” co-produced by Darkchild, Brandy, and Dallas Austin, has become one of the most successful R&B songs of all time.

20. Elton John & Kiki Dee- Don’t go Breaking my heart

“Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” is a duet performed by English musician Elton John and English singer Kiki Dee in 1976. It was written by John under the pseudonyms “Ann Orson” and “Carte Blanche,” respectively, and was intended as an affectionate pastiche of the Motown style, specifically the various duets recorded by Marvin Gaye and singers such as Tammi Terrell and Kim Weston.

John and Taupin had planned to record the song with Dusty Springfield, but she declined the offer; Springfield’s partner Sue Cameron later explained that this was due to her being too ill at the time.

21. Kelly Clarkson- Since You’ve Been Gone

“Since U Been Gone” was the second single released from Kelly Clarkson’s second album, Breakaway.

It’s also the second track on the track listing, and it peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100, continuing the trend of twos. It was ranked 482nd on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

22. Carrie Underwood- Before He Cheats

In “Before He Cheats,” Underwood is seen teaching an unfaithful lover a lesson. The track became the first country song in history to sell over two million digital copies as the third single from 2005’s Some Hearts, and it won two Grammy awards for Best Female Country Vocal Performance and Best Country Song. The RIAA certified it five times platinum after selling five million copies since its release.

23. Cyndi Lauper- Girls just want to have fun

Cyndi Lauper’s debut single as a solo artist. She released an album as a member of the group Blue Angel in 1981, but it was “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” that made her famous.

The song was very popular in the 1980s. As the video showed Lauper wearing bright, outrageous clothes that looked like they came from a thrift store, it became an anthem for female attitude and set fashion trends (they often did). It paved the way for artists like Madonna to emerge: independent women dressed cheaply but stylishly in garish accessories.

24. Celine Dion– It’s All coming back to me now

“It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” is a cover of Jim Steinman’s original Pandora’s Box song. The song was inspired by Wuthering Heights, according to Steinman, and was an attempt to write “the most passionate, romantic song” he could ever write.

25. Arethra Frankline- RESPECT

Critics regarded the single as a feminist anthem par excellence, capturing the singer at her most warrior-like and battle-ready, willing to do whatever it took to achieve her position in life. She was black and unafraid to establish herself as the voice of a woman of color, perfectly understanding that this position gave the song an added dimension of danger that a caucasian singer would not have had.

Compromising didn’t help her, especially since the song celebrated the feeling of individuality and aspiration. If she had a male counterpart, it would have been Sam Cooke, the boisterous soul singer who sang with tremendous truth and integrity.

26. Bon Jovi- Living on a Prayer

A story about a working couple, Tommy and Gina, who struggle to make ends meet despite constant adversity. The couple in the song represents the working-class fans to whom Bon Jovi performed. “Gina” works in a diner, while “Tommy” works on the docks. The characters Tommy and Gina were inspired by real-life events. Desmond Child met in the late 1970s with his then-girlfriend, Maria Vidal, with whom he was living; he was a taxi driver, and Maria worked as a waitress in a diner.

27. Carly Rae Jepsen- call me maybe

Carly Rae Jepsen recorded “Call Me Maybe” for her EP Curiosity (2012), and it later appeared on her second studio album and first international album Kiss (2012). The song was written by Jepsen and Tavish Crowe as a folk song, but its genre was changed to pop after Josh Ramsay produced it. It was released as the EP’s lead single on September 20, 2011, by 604 Records.

28. 4 Non Blondes- What’s Up

“What’s Up” was the second single from 4 Non Blondes’ 1992 album Bigger, Better, Faster, More!. It catapulted the band to international stardom, with the song topping the charts in seven countries, reaching #2 in three more (including the UK), and reaching the top 20 in the United States, making them the first openly lesbian group to do so. To avoid confusion with the Marvin Gaye song “What’s Going On,” the song was titled “What’s Up” despite the phrase not appearing in the lyrics.

29. B-52s- Love Shack

The “Love Shack” is, in many ways, a state of mind; a gathering place for people of all walks of life. The band was inspired by the club in the film The Color Purple as well as a real club outside of Athens, Georgia, called the Hawaiian Ha-Le, where they used to hang out. This place attracted a diverse crowd of hippies, sceneters, and students from the nearby University of Georgia. Keg parties in the country, according to drummer Keith Strickland, are another source of inspiration.

30. The weather girls- It’s raining men

The Weather Girls were a duo comprised of Martha Wash and Izora Armstead who stood out from other disco divas due to their large size and powerful voices. Both developed remarkably powerful voices through church singing. This song was written specifically for the gay community and was quickly adopted in gay dance clubs. It, like The Village People’s “Y.M.C.A.” became a gay anthem and, later, a mainstream hit.

Despite the fact that the song was sung from the perspective of women, it objectified men in a way that was uncommon in popular music. This message resonated with gay listeners who perceived it as a celebration of their culture.

31. Selena- Amor Prohibido

“Amor Prohibido” is the title track from Selena’s fourth album, Amor Prohibido, which was released as the first single on April 13, 1994.

Selena had an interview with Rock-N-Roll James for the TV show Puro Tejano in 1994, while recording the album. During the interview, she expressed a desire to write a song about her grandparents’ relationship and how they fell in love despite their social class differences.

32. Britney Spears- Baby One More Time

‘Britney Spears’ debut studio album’s first track and lead single. “Baby One More Time” was originally written for TLC, but they rejected it because it did not fit their style or music. The song charted at number one in every country where it was released. With over 18 million copies sold, it is one of the best-selling singles of all time.

33. No Doubt- Don’t Speak

“Don’t Speak” was the third single released from the band’s third album Tragic Kingdom in 1996. The song is thought to be about Gwen Stefani’s seven-year breakup with group bassist Tony Kanal.

No Doubt’s most successful international single, propelling them to superstardom. No Doubt’s biggest hit, “Don’t Speak,” was nominated for Song of the Year and Best Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocal at the 1998 Grammy Awards.

34. Cher- If I could turn back time

“If I Could Turn Back Time” is a song by American singer and actress Cher from her ninth studio album Heart of Stone, released in 1989. Geffen Records released it as the album’s lead single in July 1989. Diane Warren wrote the song specifically for Cher and produced it in collaboration with Guy Roche. Cher initially rejected the song after hearing a demo sung by Warren, but changed her mind after Warren forced her to record it. The lyrics discuss feelings of remorse for wrongdoing and the desire to turn back time to make things right.

35. Idina Menzel (‘Frozen’)-“Let It Go

Since its release in 2013, many groups have found personal meaning in the song. Stories abound of gay, lesbian, and transgender people, people in prison, people suffering from eating disorders and chemical addictions, and a plethora of others on the margins, all identifying with the story of a queen in hiding who learns to shed her shame and accept the things that make her different.

36. Rick Springfield- Jessie’s Girl

“Jessie’s Girl” is a song written and performed by Rick Springfield, an Australian singer. It was released in February 1981 as part of the album Working Class Dog. The song is about unrequited love and revolves around a young man who is head over heels in love with his best friend’s girlfriend.

37. ABBA- Dancing Queen

ABBA’s most famous recording, ‘Dancing Queen,’ is widely regarded as one of the all-time greatest pop songs. As one of their band members recalls, ABBA never doubted that they were on to something special. “It’s hard to tell when a hit is being made, you don’t always sense it,” she says. ‘Dancing Queen’ was an exception; we knew it was going to be huge right away.”

38. The Killers- Mr Brightside

This was The Killers’ first recorded song for their demo in 2002. Brandon Flowers wrote the lyrics and guitarist Dave Keuning composed the song. In 2004, it was re-recorded and released as a single.

Despite its upbeat tone, the song addresses infidelity, paranoia, and jealousy. This stems from Brandon Flowers’ heartbreak after his ex-girlfriend cheated on him while they were still together.

The single went 2x Platinum in the United States, selling over 2 million copies, and 3x Platinum in the United Kingdom, selling nearly 1 million copies. It has also spent more than 200 weeks in the UK Top 100, which is more than any other song.

39. Whitney Houston- I wanna dance with somebody

Music critics gave “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” mixed reviews, praising Houston’s vocal performance but criticizing the musical arrangement, comparing it to “How Will I Know” and Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.”

Despite receiving mixed reviews, the song became a global success, topping the charts in eighteen countries including Australia, Italy, Germany, and the United Kingdom. It became Houston’s fourth consecutive chart topper in the United States and was certified 6 platinum with sales of over 6 million copies. 

40. Journey- Don’t stop believin

The Library of Congress recognized “Don’t Stop Believin'” by inducting it into the National Recording Registry in 2022. According to Steve Perry: “That song has taken on a life of its own over the years. It’s about the people who have embraced it and discovered that the lyrics are something they can relate to, hold onto, and sing.”

41. Lady Gaga- Bad Romance

Music critics praised “Bad Romance” for its chorus, beat, and hook. Retrospective critics dubbed it Gaga’s best song. It reached the top of the charts in over 20 countries and sold 12 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling singles of all time. The song peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and was certified eleven times Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, with 5.9 million digital downloads sold as of 2019.

42. Dr Dre and Snoop Dogg- Nuthin but a ‘G’ thang

https://youtu.be/dwWUXZtv2C0

“Nuthin’ But a ‘G’ Thang” is widely regarded as one of the best hip-hop songs of all time. The single was certified platinum after reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Hot Rap Songs and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts. The song was nominated for a Grammy Award in 1994 for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.

It was ranked #427 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, was included on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of the 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll, and was named the Greatest Rap Song of the 1990s by XXL magazine.

43. Def Leppard- Throw Some Sugar on me

“Pour Some Sugar on Me” is a song from the 1987 album Hysteria by the English rock band Def Leppard. It reached number 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100 on 23 July 1988, behind “Hold On to the Nights” by Richard Marx. “Pour Some Sugar on Me” is the band’s signature song, and it was ranked second on VH1’s “100 Greatest Songs of the 1980s” list in 2006.

44. Elvis- suspicious minds

“Suspicious Minds” is a song written and recorded by American songwriter Mark James in 1968. After this recording failed commercially, Elvis Presley recorded it with producer Chips Moman. Presley’s version peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.

The song is about a mistrusting and dysfunctional relationship, and the characters’ need to overcome their issues in order to keep it going.

45. Lee Wiklof & Elen Green- Suddenly Seymour

The song takes place in act two of the musical after the death of Orin Scrivello, D.D.S., and is sung by the characters Seymour and Audrey (with backing vocals by Crystal, Ronnette, and Chiffon). Seymour comforts guilt-ridden Audrey, and the two finally reveal their feelings for each other.

46. Paramore- Misery Business

The song “Misery Business” is the lead single from American rock band Paramore’s second studio album, Riot! (2007). The song was inspired by a past experience of the band’s lead singer, Hayley Williams, in which she felt a male friend was being exploited by a girl. The band’s breakthrough hit, “Misery Business,” is credited with introducing the band to a mainstream audience. The song was a commercial success, peaking at No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it the band’s highest-charting single.

47. Nancy Sinatra- These Books Are Made for Walkin

“These Boots Are Made for Walkin’,” written by country star Lee Hazelwood, was first made into a hit by Nancy Sinatra (daughter of singer, Frank Sinatra). It debuted at No. 1 in the United States and the United Kingdom on January 22, 1966, after being released in December of 1965. Since its release, the song has been covered by a variety of artists, including Billy Ray Cyrus, Megadeth, and Jessica Simpson.

The boots in the song are designed for walking. They’re made for walking out on bad, cheating men, and they’re also good for walking on their hearts before heading out the door. The song was included on Nancy’s 1966 album, Boots. It was a follow-up to her hit “So Long, Babe.”

48. Toto- Afrca

“Africa” is the third single from Toto’s Toto IV album, released in 1982. It is the group’s most popular song, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1983.

The lyrics present a heartfelt (if somewhat fantastical and stereotypical) vision of Africa’s beauty. There are undercurrents of a female figure embodying the continent of Africa that are referenced throughout the song.

49. Dolly Parton- Jolene

“Jolene” is a song written and recorded by Dolly Parton, an American country music artist. On May 22, 1973, it was produced by Bob Ferguson and recorded at RCA Studio B in Nashville, Tennessee. It was released by RCA Victor on October 15, 1973, as the first single and title track from her album of the same name.

The song was inspired by a red-headed bank clerk who flirted with her husband, Carl Dean, at his local bank branch around the time they were newly married, according to Parton. In an interview, she also revealed that Jolene’s name and appearance were inspired by a young fan who approached her on stage for an autograph.

50. Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrel- Aint No Mountain High Enough

In terms of releases, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” was the first collaboration between soul artists Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. It was the first single from their debut album United, and it also served as the album’s opening track.

Despite keeping their relationship as professional as possible, the two were practically inseparable, with many referring to them as “brother and sister.” After Terrell’s tragic death at the age of 24, her mother barred everyone from Motown from attending except Gaye (who also delivered the eulogy), believing he was her only friend there. Perhaps there was no mountain, valley, or river that could ever separate them.

51. Spice Girls- Wannabe

Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” is a hit song from their debut album. It was the lead single from their debut album Spice, which was released in 1996. The girls collaborated on the song with Richard Stannard and Matt Rowe, whom they met at an industry showcase.

The lyrics of “Wannabe” emphasize the importance of female friendship over a female-male bond. It quickly became a symbol of female empowerment and one of the band’s most popular songs.

52. Evanescence featuring Paul McCoy- Bring Me To Life

It is the band’s debut single and breakthrough song, propelling them to international fame and success, thanks in part to its inclusion on the soundtrack of the 2003 film Daredevil. In the spring of 2003, it reached #1 in Italy, Australia, and the United Kingdom, and reached the top 5 in Germany, Canada, and the United States.

The song was inspired by the desire to make the most of life, according to lead singer Amy Lee and guitarist Ben Moody in an interview with AOL Sessions. Later, Lee told Songfacts that the song was inspired by a time in her life when her future husband unexpectedly asked her if she was happy.

53. John Travolta & Olivia Newton John- you’re the one I that I want

“You’re the One That I Want” is a song written by John Travolta and performed by Olivia Newton-John for the 1978 film adaptation of the musical Grease. John Farrar wrote and produced the film.

“You’re the One That I Want,” released as a single in the spring of 1978, peaked at number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 on June 10th. It also topped the charts in the United Kingdom (where it remains the fifth best-selling album in history), Australia, Germany, and France. It is estimated that more than 15 million copies have been sold worldwide.

54. TLC- No scrubs

“No Scrubs” was the lead single from TLC’s third studio album, FanMail, which was released on February 2, 1999. The song was a huge hit. In early 1999, it topped the charts in the United States, Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand.

The song earned them a Grammy nomination for “Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal” at the 42nd Annual Grammy Awards, which took place on February 23, 2000.

The song peaked at number one on Billboard’s “The Hot 100” chart in the United States on April 10, 1999, and stayed there for 28 weeks.

To increase radio play, TLC’s record label decided to release two versions of “No Scrubs,” one without Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes’ rap and one with her rap.

55. Luis Miguel- Ahora te puedes marchar

The song was released as the album’s first single in the summer of 1987, and it received a Grammy nomination for best Spanish single. It was recorded on the WEA label and produced by Juan Carlos Calderón. It was a huge hit, especially among young people, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Latin Tracks for three weeks in a row in 1987. Luis Miguel was the youngest singer to have a Billboard Top Hit at the time. Hot Latin Tracks in 17 years. In 2005, Luis Miguel included the song on his greatest hits album, and it eventually peaked at number 28 on the Billboard Hot Latin Tracks.

The theme is still popular in the public’s mind to this day, cementing itself as one of Luis Miguel’s greatest successes.

56. Destiny’s Child- Say my name

“Say My Name” was released in 1999 as the third single from Destiny’s Child’s second album Writings on the Wall. This album was their breakout success, and this song in particular represented a watershed moment in the band’s future.

The four original members of the band recorded this song: Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, LeToya Luckett, and LaTavia Roberson. When the video was released, however, LeToya and LaTavia were noticeably absent, replaced by two new girls: Michelle Williams (who remained in Destiny’s Child until their final album in 2004) and Farrah Franklin (who lasted five months). LeToya and LaTavia told MTV News that they didn’t realize they’d been kicked out of the band until they saw the music video, but Beyoncé and Kelly denied this.

57. Phil Spector- You’ve lost that Lovin Feelin

“You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” is a song written by Phil Spector, Barry Mann, and Cynthia Weil that was first recorded in 1964 by the American vocal duo the Righteous Brothers, whose version was also produced by Spector and is regarded by some music critics as the ultimate expression and illustration of Spector’s Wall of Sound recording technique.

The record was a critical and commercial success upon its initial release, reaching number one in both the United States and the United Kingdom in early February 1965. The single ranked No. 5 in Billboard’s year-end Top 100 of 1965 Hot 100 hits (based on combined airplay and sales, excluding three charted weeks in December 1964), and has entered the UK Top Ten three times.

58. Missy Elliot- Work It

Work It’ is the first single from Missy’s sophomore album Under Construction, released in 2002. The song was a commercial and critical success, peaking at No. 2 on Billboard’s Hot 100 (a spot it held for 10 weeks before being pushed out by Eminem’s “Lose Yourself”), making it Missy’s biggest hit, and was named the best single of 2002 in The Village Voice’s Pazz & Jop poll.

Backward lyrics and an elephant trumpting make the song memorable. It also contributed to the popularity of the term “badonkadonk.” Missy raps about sexing up guys in the song, which is a raunchy ode. Under Construction, according to allmusic’s John Bush, “turns the tables on male rappers, taking charge of the sex game, matching their lewdest, rudest rhymes.

59. Jimmy Buffet- Margarittaville

“Margaritaville” is a song written by Jimmy Buffett and released in 1977 on his album Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes. This song was inspired by a drink Buffett discovered at Lung’s Cocina del Sur restaurant at 2700 W. Anderson Lane in Austin, Texas, and the first massive influx of tourists who descended on Key West, Florida, around the same time.

He wrote the majority of the song one night at a friend’s house in Austin and finished it in Key West. In the United States, “Margaritaville” peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No. 1 on the Easy Listening chart, as well as No. 13 on the Hot Country Songs chart. It was ranked 14 on its 1977 Pop Singles year-end chart. Buffett’s highest charting solo single to date. 

60. Eminem- Lose Yourself

“Lose Yourself” is the theme song to Eminem’s 2002 semi-biographical film 8 Mile. Eminem recounts the life of the film’s protagonist, Jimmy, until the third verse, when Jimmy and Eminem’s paths cross.

“Lose Yourself” was a huge commercial success, reaching number one in 20 countries, including the United States. It was Eminem’s first US number one, and it stayed there for 12 weeks, making it the third-longest chart-topper from a movie soundtrack (behind “I Will Always Love You” and “End Of The Road”). In the United States, it is 13x Multi-Platinum as of 2022.

61. System Of A Down- Chop Suey

Chop-suey is an Americanized version of the Chinese quick dish tsap sui, which translates as “odds and ends, mixed bits” in Cantonese. The song title is a play on “Self-right-Chop Suey-cide,” which has an added layer of irony in that they combined a controversial word with a nonsensical word to create a more “radio-friendly” title.

The song was successful, climbing the charts after its release in August 2001 before virtually disappearing from the airwaves after 9/11.

62. Madonna- Like  A Prayer

“Like a Prayer” was recorded by Madonna for her 1989 studio album of the same name, and it was released as the lead single.

The song  marked a more artistic and personal approach to songwriting, as she felt she needed to cater more to her adult audience. The video for the song was highly debated, owing to its depiction of Madonna kissing a black saint and other allegedly sacrilegious religious imagery.

63. Freddie Walker & Idina Mendez-Take Me or Leave Me

“Take Me or Leave Me” is a song written by American composer Jonathan Larson for the musical Rent. The song was originally performed on Broadway in 1996 by Idina Menzel as Maureen and Fredi Walker as Joanne.

64. Adele- Rollin In The Deep

“Rolling In The Deep,” the Grammy Award-winning song and record of the year in 2012, was described in an interview with Spin Magazine as a “gospel disco” kiss-off to an unfaithful dude. The song reached number one in the United States, where it became the biggest crossover hit in 25 years.

65. Fugees- Killing Me Softly

The Fugees’ first big hit is a straightforward cover of a song written by Charles Fox and Norman Gimbel for Lori Lieberman and made famous by Roberta Flack’s stunning rendition.

Lieberman was inspired to write the song after hearing singer Don McLean (of “American Pie” fame!) perform the song “Empty Chairs.”

66. Sheryl Crow- If it Makes You happy

“If It Makes You Happy” is the lead single from Sheryl Crow’s 1996 self-titled album. Crow won Best Female Rock Vocal Performance at the 1997 Grammy Awards for the song, which peaked at #10 on the US Billboard charts and #1 in Canada. Crow collaborated on the song with Jeff Trott. It was originally a country song, but the singer transformed it into a rock song to gain more exposure – and it worked!

Lyrically, the song is complex and full of references. Crow herself stated that “the inspiration for the song was her feelings after the massive success of her first album, as her record label and the media put pressure on her to follow it up,” according to one source.

67. Beyonce- Love On Top

“Love On Top” is a song by American singer Beyoncé that appears on her fourth studio album 4:44. (2011). Beyoncé wrote the song with Terius Nash and Shea Taylor, inspired by her performance as Etta James in the 2008 musical biopic Cadillac Records; it was produced by Taylor and Beyoncé.

When repeating the song’s chorus near the end, Beyoncé uses a high range. She sings about someone she can always call, even after going through grief and hard work and eventually earning their love and respect. The song switches keys several times before concluding in E Major.

68. Robin Williams- Friend Like Me

“Friend Like Me” is a song from the Disney film Aladdin, released in 1992. Robin Williams, who played the Genie, delivered it. Will Smith also performs the song in the remake. It received Academy Award nominations for Best Original Song at the 65th Academy Awards and Golden Globe nominations for Best Original Song at the 50th Golden Globe Awards in 1993.

The song was originally intended to be a big band number in the style of Cab Calloway. It was reworked after Robin Williams was cast as a more comedic, pop-culture-infused song.

According to ScreenCrush, this sequence contains remnants of the previous version of the film.

69. NSYNC- bye bye bye

“Bye Bye Bye” is the opening track on ‘N Sync’s album No Strings Attached. It’s the quintet’s most popular song, and it also has one of the most overt messages: they’re breaking up with a girl because she’s a pain in the buttocks.

This girl’s classic music video exemplifies how she continues to play with their emotions.

70. Billy Joel- Piano Man

Piano Man is American recording artist Billy Joel’s second studio album, released on November 9, 1973 by Columbia Records. The album arose from legal issues with Joel’s former label, Family Productions, and became his breakthrough album.

The title track, a fictionalized retelling of Joel’s experiences as a lounge singer in Los Angeles, peaked at No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 4 on the Adult Contemporary singles chart.

71. Miley Cyrus- Party In The U.S.A

“Party in the U.S.A.” is a song recorded by Miley Cyrus for her debut extended play (EP) The Time of Our Lives (2009). It was released as the project’s lead single on August 4, 2009, by Hollywood Records. Dr. Luke wrote and produced the song, with Jessie J and Claude Kelly contributing songwriting. “Party in the U.S.A.” was written for Jessie J, but when they realized it wasn’t edgy enough for her, they gave it to Cyrus and changed the lyrics to fit her persona.

72. Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton- Island in The Strean

“Islands in the Stream” is a song written by the Bee Gees and recorded by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton of American country music. It was released in August 1983 as the first single from Rogers’ album Eyes That See in the Dark, and was named after an Ernest Hemingway novel. The song was originally written in an R&B style for Diana Ross, but Rogers and Parton reworked it for the duet. In 1998, the Bee Gees released a live version of the song, followed by a studio version in 2001.

73. Blink 182- All The Small Things

This song was written by Blink-182 founder Tom DeLonge and bassist/singer Mark Hoppus. DeLonge wrote this song about Jenna Jenkins, his then-girlfriend and future wife. His anecdotes, such as the one about her leaving flowers on the stairs, are true.

This song’s video is a parody of the Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way” video. Mark Hoppus met his wife, MTV executive Skye Everly, on the set of the video shoot.

74. The Outfield- Your Love

The Outfield’s most popular song, “Your Love,” is about a boy whose girl, Josie, leaves him.

In his loneliness, he attempts to persuade another woman to spend just one night with him. Finally, she declines him, preferring that he remain faithful to Josie.

75. Biz Markie- Just A Friend

The Biz’s biggest (and only) hit in the US is a hilarious story about groupie love gone wrong. Biz based the story on a true story that happened to him.

The beat and hook are from the 1968 song “(You) Got What I Need” by Freddie Scott. Biz wasn’t planning on singing the now-famous chorus, but nobody else showed up to sing it for him on the day of recording.

It was named the funniest rap song of all time by Complex. “Just A Friend” reached the top ten in the United States but was only a minor hit in the United Kingdom.

76. Boyz II Men- End Of The Road

In this song, one of the Boyz realizes his time with his girl is coming to an end, but he isn’t ready to let her go.”End of the Road” was Boyz II Men’s first #1 single, spending 13 weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 charts, a record at the time. This song was also nominated for two Grammy Awards: “Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals” and “Best R&B Song.”

77. Fountains Of Wayne- Stacy’s Mom

“Stacy’s Mom” is the most popular song by Fountains of Wayne. In fact, it was one of the first songs to top the iTunes Music Store’s “Most Downloaded Songs” chart.

The narrator of this song is a pubescent boy who is more interested in his female friend’s mother than the friend herself, and he is writing a song based on other people’s perspectives to illustrate some slice of life. According to a SongFacts interview with bassist and songwriter Adam Schlesinger, it was partially inspired by real-life events.

78. Lady A- Need You Now

“Need You Now” is Lady A’s second studio album’s title track, first track, and first single.

After getting drunk, the song depicts the painful memories of a lost love and the longing to see the other person again.

The song was a massive crossover hit for the country trio, earning them a #2 Hot 100 hit as well as their second #1 Hot Country hit. In addition, the song received four Grammy nominations in 2011, including Song and Record of the Year.

79. Pat Benatar- We Belong

This is one of Benatar’s most well-known songs, reaching #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1984.

The song is commonly interpreted as a song about a married couple’s struggle to find common ground and the grace to accept and respect each other for who they are.

It was written by Eric Lowen and Dan Navarro as a result of their own struggle to work together successfully.

80. One Direction- What Makes You Beautiful

One Direction’s debut single, “What Makes You Beautiful,” was released from their debut album Up All Night. Lyrically, the song is about a boy attempting to boost the self-esteem of his partners by declaring his love for them. According to Savan Kotecha, who contributed to the song’s creation, it was written for his wife.

81. Lauryn Hill- Ex Factor

Ms. Hill’s second single from her classic album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. The song is said to be directed at former Fugees bandmate Wyclef Jean. Jean was married to another woman while having an affair with Hill, which accounts for the turbulent nature of the relationship described in the song.

The song’s title is derived from clever wordplay; “ex” as in ex-relationship, but also “x” as in x-factor, i.e. something special.

82. Liza Minelli- maybe this time

“Perhaps This Time,” written by John Kander and Fred Ebb for actress Kaye Ballard, is a song. It was later included in the 1972 film Cabaret, where it is sung by Liza Minnelli’s character Sally Bowles. It had previously been recorded and released in similar arrangements on Minnelli’s debut studio album Liza! Liza! (1964) and New Feelin’ (1970), but it became a traditional pop standard after its inclusion in Cabaret in 1972.

83. Taylor Swift- You belong with me

“You Belong with Me” is about a boy who is too involved in a toxic relationship to notice how much another girl likes him. It is included on Taylor’s sophomore album, Fearless.

84. Fall Out Boy- Sugar We’re Going Down

Sugar, We’re Goin Down” was released as the lead single from Fall Out Boy’s second studio album, From Under the Cork Tree, in April 2005. The song is often credited as the catalyst for the band’s entry into the mainstream, where they were exposed to a new audience, as it was their first top ten hit.

85. Estelle featuring Kanye West- American Boy

Estelle’s breakout solo single, “American Boy,” is a slice of modern disco that serves as the perfect backdrop for the song’s cross-continental romance featuring Kanye West.

The song peaked at number one in the UK, reached the top ten in several countries, and earned Estelle a Grammy for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration. The video won four MTV Video Music Awards in 2008, including Video of the Year.

86. Sonny & Cher- I got You Babe

“I Got You Babe” is a song written by Sonny Bono and performed by the American pop and entertainment duo Sonny & Cher. It was the first single from Look at Us, their debut studio album (1965). The single spent three weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States in August 1965, selling over one million copies and being certified Gold. It also topped the charts in the United Kingdom and Canada.

87. David Allan Coe- You Never Even Called me by My Name

You never even addressed me by name “Steve Goodman and John Prine wrote the song. Prine requested to be uncredited on the song, as he thought it was a “goofy, novelty song” and did not want to “offend the country music community”. To little acclaim, Goodman released the song on his self-titled debut album Steve Goodman in 1971. David Allan Coe, a country music singer, recorded it on his 1975 album Once Upon a Rhyme. It was Coe’s third single release and his first Top Ten hit, peaking at number eight on the Billboard country singles charts. The song, which runs for more than five minutes, is known for its amusing self-description as “ideal for country and western song.

88. Jodi Benson (‘The Little Mermaid’)- Part of Your World

“Part of Your World” is a song written for Disney’s animated feature film The Little Mermaid by lyricist Howard Ashman and composer Alan Menken (1989). “Part of Your World,” performed by American actress and singer Jodi Benson as Ariel, a mermaid princess, is a power ballad in which the main character expresses her strong desire to become human; its lyrics use placeholder names in place of several human-related terms that would be unfamiliar to a mermaid. “Part of Your World,” the film’s theme song, is reprised by Ariel after she saves Eric, a human prince with whom she has fallen in love, from drowning.

89. The Human League- Don’t You Want Me

Phil Oakey, lead singer of The Human League, wrote “Don’t You Want Me” after reading a photo-story in a romance magazine for teen girls. The song tells the story of a man who falls in love with a cocktail waitress and turns her into a star, but their relationship fails.

The song was originally recorded as a male solo by Oakey, but after seeing the 1976 musical drama A Star Is Born, he decided to make it a duet with one of the band’s female vocalists, Susan Ann Sulley.

90. Usher- Nice & Slow

“Nice and Slow” is a song from Usher’s second studio album, My Way (1997). The song, which was released on January 6, 1998, became Usher’s first number-one single on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in February 1998. Usher, Brian Casey of the R&B group Jagged Edge, Manuel Seal Jr., and Jermaine Dupri wrote the song.

91. George Michael- Freedom

“Freedom! ’90” is a song written, produced, and performed by George Michael that was released on Columbia Records in 1990. The “’90” added to the end of the title is to prevent confusion with a hit by Michael’s former band Wham!, also entitled “Freedom”. The song’s backing beat is a sample from James Brown’s song “Funky Drummer”.

92. Lisa Loeb- Stay( I missed You)

“Stay (I Missed You)” is a song written by Lisa Loeb, an American singer-songwriter. It was released in May 1994 as the lead single from Reality Bites’ original film soundtrack (1994). The song plays over the end credits of the film. Musically, “Stay” is a pop rock song influenced by folk music. Lyrically, the song is about a recently ended relationship, but the narrator is now regretful.

93. Bruce Springsteen- Dancing In The Dark

This song was written two years after the majority of the other songs on Springsteen’s seminal album Born In The U.S.A.

Producer Jon Landau felt the new album lacked a surefire hit and pushed Springsteen to write one more song. The two men got into a brief altercation, after which Bruce wrote “Dancing in the Dark” about his ‘difficulty writing a hit single and his frustration trying to write songs that will please people’.

94. 50 Cent- In Da Club

“In da Club” was the first of seven songs 50 Cent and Dr. Dre recorded in five days. Originally intended as a D12 song for the 8 Mile soundtrack, producer Dre played the instrumental for 50, who immediately wrote the song’s lyrics and recorded the majority of the vocals that night.

According to The Billboard Book of Number One Hits, Eminem preferred “If I Can’t” as the lead single for Get Rich or Die Trying. When 50 asked Dre for his thoughts, he chose “In da Club” instead. “In da Club” was chosen by a coin toss.

95. Temple Of The Dog- Hunger Strike

Temple of the Dog’s song “Hunger Strike” is a protest song. It was written by vocalist Chris Cornell and released as the first single from the band’s sole studio album, Temple of the Dog, in 1991. (1991).

It was the band’s biggest hit, peaking at #4 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.

96. Montel Jordan- This Is How We Do It

“This Is How We Do It” is Montell Jordan’s debut single, released as the lead single from his debut album of the same name.

The song was a massive hit, peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming his only number one single. Jordan was also nominated for a Grammy Award for “Best Male R&B Vocal Performance” at the 38th Annual Grammy Awards.

97. Kesha- Tik Tok

“TiK ToK” is Kesha’s debut single. It was written by Ke$ha, Benny Blanco, and Dr. Luke, with the latter two also serving as producers. Kesha had previously achieved success as the hook singer on Flo Rida’s “Right Round,” but this 2009 party anthem catapulted her to stardom.

The song follows a group of friends through their night out, from getting ready to arriving at the party, to swatting away unwanted men and dancing until the cops arrive. “TiK ToK” may appear to be just another aural glitter bomb, but beneath the beat-heavy electro-pop is a message about being confident and having fun. It turned out to be a message that resonated with a large number of listeners.

98. Mario- Let Me Love You

Following the success of his debut album, Mario, then 18, returned with an even bigger bang in 2004 with the chart-topping single “Let Me Love You” from his second studio album Turning Point. Shaffer Smith, a young talented songwriter, wrote the song (who went on to have quite a successful solo career of his own as Ne-Yo).

“Let Me Love You” topped the Billboard charts for nine weeks in a row and finished eighth on Billboard Magazine’s end-of-decade Hot 100 song list.

“Let Me Love You” was also the pinnacle of Mario’s career to that point, as he has yet to release a single that equaled or exceeded its success.

99. Warren G Featuring Nate Dogg- Regulate

“Regulate” is a song by American rapper Warren G that features American singer Nate Dogg. It was released as the first single on the soundtrack to the film Above the Rim in the spring of 1994, and later on Warren G’s debut album, Regulate… G Funk Era (1994). It became an MTV staple and the song peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and No. 8 on the R&B/Hip-Hop chart. “Regulate” was number 98 on VH1’s 100 Greatest Songs of Hip Hop and number 108 on Pitchfork Media’s “Top 200 Tracks of the 90s”. 

100. Zac Brown- Chicken Fried

“Chicken Fried” is a song written by American country music group Zac Brown Band’s frontman Zac Brown and Wyatt Durrette. The song was first recorded in 2003 for the album Home Grown, which was released in 2005. The Lost Trailers then released a second version in 2006, which was released as a single but pulled from radio. The Zac Brown Band re-recorded the song and released it as the first single from their album The Foundation two years later. It became their first chart single and their first number-one hit on the Billboard country charts in late 2008. Witless Protection, a 2008 film, featured the song.