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

Rock Around The ClockBill Haley & His Comets

Bill Haley & His Comets – Rock Around The Clock (1955) HD

It was first recorded in 1954 by Sonny Dae and His Knights, but the single released a few months later that year in the United States by Bill Haley and His Comets became a major hit.

Rather than an original and its cover version, these two records were closer to a collaborative effort.

You Are My DestinyPaul Anka

Paul Anka – You Are My Destiny (Live)

With its almost overly dramatic intro and passionate vocals, this song makes perfect sense once you hear the title: “You Are My Destiny.” Written and composed by Paul Anka, who also sang it, it was released in 1957.

He’s amazing—he can both write songs and sing them.

Whether you perform it seriously or with a comedic touch, it packs a punch, so it’s a great pick for karaoke.

It’s Now or NeverElvis Presley

Elvis Presley – It’s Now or Never (Official Audio)

This song, recorded by Elvis Presley in 1960, became a big hit thanks to its lively melody based on the Italian folk song “’O Sole Mio.” The lyrics convey a message like, “Now is the only chance to get close to you,” which brings to mind the recently popular phrase “Now’s the time.” Since it originated as a folk song, it’s easy to sing and highly recommended.

Be My BabyThe Ronettes

The Ronettes – Be My Baby (Official Audio)

This song is so major that you could call it one of those oldies everyone’s heard at least once, but it was actually the debut single by the female trio The Ronettes, released in 1963.

Its striking intro and rich, layered choral sound are said to have influenced the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and the Beach Boys, among others.

Twist and ShoutIsley Brothers

Isley Brothers – Twist and Shout

The Isley Brothers released this song in 1962 and made it a hit.

People often assume they sang the original, but in fact, the first group to release the song was the Top Notes.

It later became even more famous when the Beatles covered it.

The Isley Brothers’ version has a slower tempo and a pastoral feel.

Mr. LonelyBobby Vinton

Bobby Vinton – Mr. Lonely

This song is one of Bobby Vinton’s signature hits, which reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts in 1964.

It’s also known for being covered by The Lettermen in 1970.

Oldies ballads like this really bring back the era, don’t they? With its prominent falsetto, it’s a high-difficulty piece suited for advanced singers.

LollipopThe Chordettes

Chordettes – Lollipop

The song was written by Julius Dixon and Beverly Ross in 1958 for the duo singers Ronald and Ruby, but this version is the most famous.

It’s also popular as a classic a cappella song and has been covered by numerous groups.

The Chordettes are well known for their 1954 million-seller “Mr.

Sandman.”