I Want to Sing at Karaoke! A Roundup of Recommended Oldies Classics and Popular Songs

Tennessee WaltzPatti Page

Patti Page – Tennessee Waltz (1956)

Patti Page, known as the “Singing Rage,” delivers one of her signature songs here—a classic waltz that tells the poignant story of a lover being stolen away by an old friend at a dance.

Musically, it’s quintessential traditional pop, and its groundbreaking overdubbed harmonies—created by layering Page’s own voice—lend an elegant sheen to the protagonist’s heartbreak.

Released in November 1950 and originally treated as a B-side, it became a massive hit, spending nine consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard chart.

In Japan, it’s also well known for its use in the film The Railway Man (Poppoya).

With its gentle 3/4 melody that’s easy to remember and relatively accessible English lyrics, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to try singing oldies in English.

Please Mr. PostmanThe Marvelettes

The Marvelettes – Please Mr. Postman (1961)

It’s a song released in 1961 by the Marvelettes, who were signed to the American label Motown Records.

It is said to express lead singer Gladys Horton’s feelings as she waits for letters from her lover who has gone off to war.

It’s a famous oldies classic, also known for being covered by the Beatles and the Carpenters.

DianaPaul Anka

Paul Anka – Diana

This classic song was written and composed by Paul Anka in 1957, and became a hit with his own recording.

“Diana” was also a hit in Japan during the rockabilly boom, with Japanese-language versions released by Keijiro Yamashita and Akira Hirao.

Among oldies, it’s relatively easy to remember and sing, so it’s recommended for beginners.

Can’t take my eyes off youBoys Town Gang

Can't Take My Eyes Off You / Boys Town Gang

This song, which the Boys Town Gang rearranged in a disco style in 1982 and which became a big hit in Japan, the UK, and elsewhere, was originally a solo hit in 1967 by the Four Seasons’ Frankie Valli, known for songs like “Sherry.” It’s also extremely popular in Japan’s oldies scene and is considered one of the top five classics.

RunawayDel Shannon

Del Shannon – Runaway

This song is a single released by Del Shannon in February 1961, and it became a hit, topping the U.

S.

charts for four consecutive weeks.

There are plenty of highlights, such as modulating from a minor key to a major key in the chorus and showcasing falsetto.

Among oldies, it’s on the more difficult side, but it’s such a lovely song that it’s worth the challenge.

The Japanese version was also a hit.

Unchained MelodyThe Righteous Brothers

“Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers

This song dates from 1955, but it became more famous than when it was first released because it was used in the 1990 blockbuster film Ghost.

It has been recorded in more than 500 versions in various languages, not just English, making it one of the most recorded songs of the 20th century.

The video is the Righteous Brothers version used in the film.

Where Did Our Love GoThe Supremes

Supremes – Where Did Our Love Go (1964) HD 0815007

This is a signature song by the African-American female vocal group, The Supremes.

Released in 1964, it became a huge hit.

It sings about a love that runs infinitely deep.

The bouncy rhythm and the charming vocals—which still don’t feel dated even today—are wonderful.