[2025] A roundup of cool Western songs that get the crowd going at karaoke

bad guyBillie Eilish

Billie Eilish – bad guy

Billie Eilish’s smash hit “bad guy,” which took the world by storm in 2019, might strike some people as a very downbeat song that could be hard to get excited about.

It’s true that, in terms of a straightforward melodic punch, it might not be the most rousing choice for karaoke.

However, given how massively popular it is, it’s actually a great song for getting everyone involved and singing along.

Try belting out the “Duh” right before the chorus together with the people you’re with—it’s sure to lift the energy.

One Call AwayCharlie Puth

Charlie Puth – One Call Away [Official Video]

When it comes to Charlie Puth, this is the song! His expansive, beautiful voice is truly captivating.

He has a genuinely beautiful voice that stirs people’s emotions, and even if you don’t understand English, just listening to it makes your heart ache.

It’s a mutual-love song centered around phone calls, carrying the message that he’ll rush to you anytime, anywhere for the one he loves.

His emotional vocals really hit home, and there are many stories of people being moved because this song is often performed at farewell parties and the like—so definitely give it a listen.

This LoveMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – This Love

Maroon 5 is a U.

S.

band that has gained worldwide popularity with their catchy musical style.

While their early releases centered on alternative rock, since the 2010s they’ve ventured into various genres, including pop and dance music.

A track that lets you savor their alternative rock era is This Love.

It’s pop-tinged alternative rock—cool yet upbeat—making it a great pick for karaoke.

abcdefuGAYLE

GAYLE – abcdefu (Official Music Video)

Among the artists who gained popularity on TikTok in 2022, singer-songwriter GAYLE stood out with particularly remarkable success.

Despite being a teenager, her musical style is already well-formed, and along with her honest lyrics, she has garnered support from young people around the world.

In Japan as well, many people have likely heard her song “abcdefu” through TikTok and other platforms.

For those in their teens and twenties, it’s a song that almost everyone knows, so it’s sure to be a hit at karaoke.

World’s Smallest ViolinAJR

AJR – World’s Smallest Violin (Official Video)

“World’s Smallest Violin” is a popular song by AJR, an American trio known as multi-instrumentalists who can play a wide range of instruments.

The song became famous thanks to its music video on YouTube, so even if you go to karaoke with friends who don’t usually listen to Western music, they might say, “Oh, I’ve heard this one!” once you start singing.

It’s also fun as a bit to imitate the sounds of various instruments with your voice, so it’s a great pick when you want to lighten the mood!

I Don’t Think That I Like HerCharlie Puth

Charlie Puth – I Don’t Think That I Like Her (Official Audio)

Charlie Puth, who has been churning out smash hits one after another, included a song called “I Don’t Think That I Like Her” on his third album.

The title means, “I can’t say I like her.” In the song, he lets his imagination run wild about dating, and we see him swing between positive and negative feelings as a result.

The protagonist isn’t consistent, but that inconsistency actually makes it feel more realistic.

Try singing it while reflecting on your own experiences in love.

STAYThe Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber

The Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber – STAY (Official Video)

“STAY,” born from the collaboration between Australian songwriter The Kid LAROI and global pop musician Justin Bieber, is a song characterized by an irresistibly catchy melody that sticks in your head.

Though it’s a fresh, upbeat tune, it somehow evokes a touch of wistfulness and loneliness—perhaps thanks to his husky vocals.

His songs, backed by strong rapping skills, are best practiced with energy and a steady tempo.

If you can nail this one at a big karaoke gathering, you’re sure to be the star of the night!