Top Foreign Songs That Hype Up Karaoke for People in Their 50s [2026]

RoarKaty Perry22rank/position

Katy Perry – Roar

This is an uplifting anthem by Katy Perry, where catchy, melodic tracks create a high level of polish that matches her distinctive character and musicality.

It’s a song you’ll want to sing at karaoke—glamorous yet approachable for women in their 30s, and perfect for powering up the crowd.

Take It OffTaylor Swift23rank/position

Taylor Swift – Shake It Off

This is an uplifting song by the popular artist Taylor Swift, who delivers works that, while acoustic in sound, are powerful and full of exhilaration.

Its musical style is approachable for women in their 40s and inspires the urge to sing it at karaoke.

Take On Mea-ha24rank/position

a-ha – Take On Me (Official Video) [4K]

The moment that incredibly famous intro rings out, it’s an absolute classic that gets you pumped up—even if you weren’t around to experience it in real time! Many people surely remember its innovative music video from the MTV-dominated 1980s, which went on to influence later generations.

As mentioned, “Take On Me,” one of the signature songs by Norway’s proud trio a-ha, is such a massive hit that everyone’s heard it at least once, so it’s guaranteed to liven up any karaoke session.

It’s tough to replicate Morten Harket’s beautiful high notes, but try adjusting the key and give it a shot!

Smells Like Teen SpiritNirvana25rank/position

Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video)

Nirvana’s biggest hit, which shook the rock world to its core in 1991.

Opening their second album Nevermind, this track makes a powerful impact with its “quiet–loud” structure, moving from subdued verses to explosive choruses.

Despite its simple, power-chord-driven riff, Kurt Cobain’s searing, soul-baring vocals intertwine with Dave Grohl’s powerful drumming to create a truly one-of-a-kind sound.

At the 1992 MTV Video Music Awards, it won both Best New Artist and Best Alternative Video.

It also ranked an impressive No.

5 on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

It’s a timeless classic that not only resonates with those in their 50s who felt its real-time shock but is also essential listening for anyone who wants to experience the origins of grunge.

What’s Up?4 Non Blondes26rank/position

4 Non Blondes – What’s Up (Official Music Video)

A simple and beautiful track that conveys a message about human connection.

It was released in 1993 by the American rock group 4 Non Blondes.

It reached No.

1 on charts around the world and has been featured in films such as Young Adult.

Bohemian RhapsodyQueen27rank/position

Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody (Official Video Remastered)

Queen was probably one of the bands that had the greatest impact on people in their 50s.

Coming out as gay and coming out about AIDS were shocking at the time.

Freddie Mercury was a genius-level entertainer.

Even now, I have many hardcore fans around me.

Among their signature songs, the sheer grandeur of this chorus’s build-up is incredible—overwhelming and breathtaking.

Bad RomanceLady Gaga28rank/position

Lady Gaga – Bad Romance (Official Music Video)

This is an empowering anthem by the ever-commanding Lady Gaga, who enjoys immense support for her distinctive fashion and uncompromising vocal approach.

It’s an upbeat track with a refreshing punch that resonates with women in their 30s and makes you want to sing it at karaoke.