There are two kinds of people in the world: the karaoke kind and the no-way-am-I-doing-karaoke kind. Luckily, non-singers have a secret weapon up their sleeves – lip syncing! Whether you’ve got the voice of an angel, or a frog, you can bring down the house with an energetic lip sync performance.
Tear yourself away from that potted plant you’ve been hanging out with in the corner and get up on that stage with our list of the 51 guaranteed-to-melt-faces hottest songs to lip sync to!
1. “Vogue” by Madonna
You didn’t think that you were going to get out of a list of the best lip sync songs without seeing Madonna, did you? Granted, it’s a bit outdated, and more than a bit cheesy, but it’s also one of those songs that everyone knows!
Better still, it comes with built-in dance moves. We love a good crowd participation number and the performing possibilities for “Vogue” are virtually endless.
Next: Biggest and best songs of the ’80s (1980s tracks)
2. “Louie Louie” by The Kingsmen
No matter how drunk you are, you can’t go wrong with this 1963 Kingsmen classic. You’re unlikely to find a single person who knows the actual lyrics to this song, made famous in the toga scene of the 1978 hit comedy, “Animal House.”
Just pump up the volume, sway along like John Belushi at a frat party, and mouth the words “Louie, Louie” and you’re golden!
3. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
Legendary Queen frontman, Freddie Mercury, was known for his theatrical stage performances. “Bohemian Rhapsody” isn’t just an anthem, it’s a journey, piecing together three separate songs with an operatic interlude. It’s safe to say that though most of us know the lyrics, few of us can explain them!
Regardless, you’ll see the whole crowd light up when you choose to perform this song. Best of all, its call and response structure – Scaramouche! Scaramouche! – will get the crowd in on the act.
Next: The greatest songs of all time (impactful, powerful and popular hit songs)
4. “Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)” by Beyoncé
Whether or not you’re a fan of Beyoncé, you’re sure to find yourself humming along to this song whenever it pops up on the radio. A true ladies’ anthem, this 2008 release shot to the top of record charts and stayed there. It seems that women felt an affinity for lyrics that bemoaned a lack of relationship commitment from men.
“Single Ladies” makes a great lip sync song for a solo woman or a group of ladies. Try taking turns at singing the lead and the backup parts. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, you can even recreate the (deceptively) simple group choreography from the video.
Next: Greatest karaoke duets to sing (our picks of the absolute best duets)
5. “Respect” by Aretha Franklin
The undisputed Queen of Soul and voice of the Civil Rights Movement breaks it all down in “Respect.” Few people know that this song, one of Aretha’s biggest hits, was originally written and recorded by Otis Redding, who referred to it as one of his favorite songs.
It was Aretha who decided to cover it and added her own unique flavor to it, including the piano parts and the lines “Sock it to me!” Audiences instantly connected with her version of the song, and continue to up to this day. You can bring a lip sync performance of this song to an even higher level with your own backup singers.
Next: The best women empowerment songs for a great girl power playlist
6. “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper
This infectious 80s hit is a mood-booster guaranteed to get the crowd – male and female – singing along with you. Interestingly, despite Cyndi’s baby face, she was thirty years old at the time of the recording. Cyndi was not the original songwriter, but re-wrote the song for herself, changing some of what she considered “misogynistic lyrics” in the original version.
Check out some of Cyndi’s live performance footage, as well as the video for “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun”, if you’re looking to incorporate her unique fashions or adorably fierce dancing style into your act.
Next: The best dance songs of all time (top party hits list)
7. “Super Freak” by Rick James
“Super Freak” is a super-sexy 70s anthem that has stood the test of time. Rick James is known for his funky beats and even funkier dance moves. But if you listen closely, you’ll hear plenty of influence from outside the disco and funk realms. Rick explains that he wanted to write a song that was silly and fun, but that also included opera-influenced vocals, as in the low-key lyric, “She’s all right.”
Of all the disco songs to lip sync to, this one tops our list. If you want to go all-in, bust out some bell bottoms and a funky hat to do it up like Rick.
Next: Greatest disco songs of all time (best hits through the years)
8. “California Love” by 2Pac featuring Dr. Dre
This ultimate West Coast party anthem will have everyone California dreaming on even the darkest winter day! “California Love” was released in 1996. We’re not sure how that’s possible, but Dr. Dre’s star-studded performance of the song at the 2022 half-time show, without question, introduced it to a whole new generation of fans.
After all, how could anyone resist an all-star rap tribute to one of the most vibrant and creative urban centers in the nation?
Next: The best hip hop songs of the 90s (top 90s rap hits)
9. “Rock and Roll All Nite” by Kiss
It’s easy to see why this 1975 hit is one of Kiss’s crowd favorites. It’s a crowd-pleasing dose of rock n roll fun and a great choice for lip-syncing with its simple lyrics and theatrical guitar licks. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not emulate one of the members’ famed black-and-white makeup looks?
Pass the mic off to the crowd and watch them join right in on the chorus!
Next: Greatest 1970s songs (top hits from the ’70s list)
10. “1999” by Prince
The Purple One is an undeniably once-in-a-generation talent who has released countless songs in which he sings and plays nearly every instrument known to man. It’s just about impossible to choose a favorite Prince song when every one of them is objectively great! But for sheer lip sync performance value, we love the party anthem, “1999.”
Everyone knows the lyrics, but since none of us mere mortals can touch those vocals, lip syncing to him is the next best thing. “1999” is the perfect Prince song for any party; it’s a little less “spicy” than most of his music and it’s got a fantastic party appeal.
Despite being called “1999” and having a 1982 release date, we don’t see people getting tired of this jam – or any of Prince’s music – anytime soon.
Next: Best 80s rock n’ roll songs
11. “Wannabe” by The Spice Girls
“Wannabe” is the song to get your reluctant gal pals up on stage. The lyrics are simple, and the song gives everyone a chance to step up and shine! Any audience is sure to know the lyrics, so bring them in on the action.
Pick a spice – Sporty, Baby, Scary, Ginger, or Posh – and break out your best-choreographed dance moves. “Wannabe” is a feminist anthem that doesn’t take itself too seriously and is sure to satisfy that Millennial nostalgia itch.
Next: The best karaoke songs of all time (our ultimate karaoke list)
12. “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson
We’re not gonna lie; it takes guts to perform a Michael Jackson song! His one-of-a-kind dance moves, phenomenal stage presence, and vocal range lie far beyond the reach of most of us mere mortals. But if you really want to strut your stuff, put on that single rhinestone glove and try out MJ’s single “Billie Jean.” This song was the first single off the album “Thriller,” which catapulted MJ to solo stardom.
We love to see “Billie Jean” performed live. But, we should warn you, no audience is going to let you get away from at least attempting a moonwalk, should you choose to lip sync this song!
Next: Greatest 80s karaoke songs to attempt
13. “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion
“My Heart Will Go On” was a smash hit in 1997, owing to both its appearance in the blockbusting tear-jerker “Titanic” and the intimidating vocal range of singer Celine Dion. Celine reaches notes in this song that we didn’t even know existed. The chorus of this song is the dictionary definition of “belting!”
Thankfully, you don’t have to be able to reach those kinds of notes to create a memorable performance. Besides, when else are you going to have the chance to re-enact hanging off the edge of a doomed ocean liner with a hunky Leo DeCaprio?
Next: The best 90s songs (our ultimate list of 1990s hits)
14. “2 Legit 2 Quit” by MC Hammer
There’s a good chance that most of you reading this weren’t around for the original 1991 release of MC Hammer’s infectious hit. But we hope you’ve all caught up since then. “2 Legit 2 Quit” is tailor-made for lip syncing! It’s got it all – side-stepping dance moves, cheesy backup vocals, and even hand motions to match the chorus.
Bonus points should be awarded to anyone who performs this song wearing MC Hammer’s larger-than-life style harem pants. Now that we think about it, those pants might just explain his unique style of dancing.
Next: The best 90s karaoke songs to sing (our list of picks)
15. “You Can’t Hurry Love” by The Supremes
The Motown record label was the hit-making machine of the ’50s through ’80s and The Supremes were one of the top bands to come out of that machine. “You Can’t Hurry Love” is a masterful balance of smooth tones, a catchy chorus, and emotionally vulnerable lyrics.
Singer Diana Ross, later an accomplished solo artist, along with a suite of other talented ladies, belted out hit after hit, including “You Can’t Hurry Love.” It’s the perfect number for the love-struck ladies out there, with a doo-wop beat and a message that transcends time.
Next: The best bands of all time (ultimate list of the best bands ever)
16. “When a Man Loves a Woman” by Percy Sledge
Fellas, if you’re looking to impress a lady, look no further. It’s a crowd favorite, as evidenced by the fact that the 1966 original has been covered by dozens of other artists, most notably Michael Bolton, who took it back to the top of the charts. But it’s Percy Sledge’s original that holds the top spot in our hearts.
Take a cue from Percy Sledge and throw your whole body into performing this slice of raw vocals and high emotion.
17. “Hollaback Girl” by Gwen Stefani
Gwen Stefani is a born performer. From her time as the front woman for the ska band “No Doubt” to her legendary incarnation as a pop icon, Gwen keeps audiences enthralled with her unique fashion sensibility and energetic performance style.
Despite “Hollaback Girl” making its way to the top of the charts, many fans were left wondering exactly what a “hollaback girl” does. The answer is that a hollaback girl is a background cheerleader who yells out responses in the background of the lead girl. So, if you’re tired of standing to the side, bring out your front woman with your own version of this song!
Next: The best 2000s songs (our favorite ’00s hits list)
18. “I Got You (I Feel Good)” by James Brown
You might have a hard time remembering where you first heard the can’t-miss dance tune, “I Got You (I Feel Good).” That’s because James Brown’s signature hit has appeared in dozens of television shows and films since its 1965 release.
The can’t-miss dance groove from the undisputed Godfather of Soul is considered one of the greatest songs of all time by many acclaimed publications.
It’d behoove you to study up on the master’s dance moves, and maybe even get yourself a polyester cape before you perform this one in public.
19. “Hello” by Adele
Looking for a song to lip-sync to that’s a little more chill? Adele’s “Hello” is a terrific song for anyone who wants a chance to belt out some heartfelt lyrics and sway along to the quieter moments.
While on the surface, the song might sound a bit depressing, Adele insists that it’s really about making it through the hard times and coming out on the “other side,” from being a teen and young adult to finding yourself later in life.
Next: The best sad songs of all time (saddest hits ever recorded)
20. “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks
Garth Brooks’ 1990 “Friends in Low Places” is an ode to the kinds of friends who stick with you through thick and thin and can’t be concerned with what anyone else might think about them. A staple of seedy bars across the globe, it’s a bit silly but undeniably fun.
The best things about lip syncing “Friends in Low Places” is that you don’t have to try to hit those impossible-to-reach bass notes!
Next: Best songs to sing in a bar (top bar songs list)
21. “Toxic” by Britney Spears
Many publications have rated “Toxic” as the number one best Britney Spears song of all time, citing a sense of euphoria over the iconic strings section and can’t miss music video. Though 2003 wasn’t written by Britney, it sounds like it was custom-made for her, and she’s got the Grammy to prove it!
From the moment those first strings hit, you’ll have the audience hooked, and by the time the chorus rolls around, there won’t be a person in the house who isn’t singing along.
Next: Greatest songs about toxic relationships and abusive love
22. “Take On Me” by A-ha
Norwegian band A-ha burst onto the scene in 1984 with this instant hit, which has seen many incarnations since. Dozens of artists have covered the song through the years – a testament to the public’s true love for it. Yet, none of the covers touches the original, which was written specifically to show off singer Morton Harket’s impressive vocal range.
Don’t worry if you don’t know all the lyrics – we sure don’t. Bouncing around to the joyful beat is enough to get any audience on your side.
Next: The best one hit wonders of all time (our list of ultimate picks)
23. “Hey Ya” by Outkast
You’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who doesn’t bop along when this song pops on. Ludacris’s inspired beats will keep you moving from the jump. An audience won’t be able to resist jumping in at the call and response section or screaming out “Shake it like a Polaroid picture!”
Next: The top hip hop songs of all time (greatest rap hits ever)
24. “Sabotage” by Beastie Boys
If you’re looking for a lip sync song a little off the beaten track, you can’t do much better than choosing The Beastie Boys. “Sabotage” may not be one of their best-known songs, but it is one of the most energetic. The vocals vacillate between scream-singing and rapping, and the beat is pure adrenaline. Try this one out if you’re in the mood to jump around.
25. “Hot in Herre” By Nelly
Nelly’s “Hot in Herre” is a guaranteed hit with any Millennial crowd. In fact, it was almost as big a hit in Australia and New Zealand as it was in the U.S.
Despite having been recorded in 2002, we haven’t forgotten a single line. Lip syncing to this one will bring you right back to club nights!
Next: Greatest 2000s hip hop songs (our picks)
26. “Jolene” by Dolly Parton
The undisputed Queen of Country (though, don’t tell her we said that) has written hundreds of songs throughout her career, but it’s “Jolene” that has stood the test of time and captured the hearts of fans of all types of music.
This classic country tale of cheatin’ men and beautiful women is a skilled blend of sadness and longing wrapped in a driving melody.
Next: The best cover songs ever recorded (our list of greatest covers ever)
27. “My Girl” by The Temptations
“My Girl” is one of Motown Records’ biggest hits. 1965 and modern audiences alike connect with the song’s sweet energy, deep bass beat, and impassioned harmonies. Get a group of guys together for this one, and don’t forget the choreographed finger snaps!
Next: Greatest karaoke songs for men to sing tonight (our list)
28. “My Way” by Frank Sinatra
This song has been re-upped by numerous artists through the years, but it will always belong to the OG, Frank Sinatra. This 1969 classic has stood the test of time. Grab a martini and channel your inner Frank.
29. “Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars
This is a song that just screams “summer!” Wherever you were in 2014, this number one hit was playing on the radio. Check out the video if you’re planning on lip-syncing this one. You’ll want to practice some of Bruno’s smooth, shuffling, dance moves.
Next: The best summertime jams of all time (top summer songs list)
30. “Gin and Juice” by Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg’s music is the cure for stressful days. Don’t believe us? Turn on Snoop’s “Gin and Juice” and see if you can’t get through it without cracking a smile. If you’re nervous about lip-syncing, take a cue from Snoop and channel his ultimate-chill performing style.
31. “Stupid Love” by Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga’s 2020 hit about love after heartbreak was well-received by both critics and audiences alike. Its crazy mix of musical influences – Lady Gaga cites everything from opera to disco, house, and pop – make it a blast to perform.
If you’re feeling inspired, check out the groundbreaking “Stupid Love” video for dance choreography ideas.
32. “We’re Not Gonna Take It” by Twisted Sister
Wanna bang your head? Twisted Sister’s “We’re Not Gonna Take It” is the ultimate screw-you to authority. Perform this one – with or without Dee Schneider’s trademark heavy metal makeup look – to get out all that leftover adolescent energy.
You’ll have all the Gen Xers banging their heads right along with you.
Next: The best funny karaoke songs to sing when drunk (try these out)
33. “Driver’s License” by Olivia Rodrigo
You don’t have to be a teen girl to appreciate Olivia Rodrigo’s angst-ridden ode to bad boyfriends, though it might help. This smash-hit manages to be both raw and catchy and has an intensity that lends it a theatrical air, perfect for a dramatic lip-sync interpretation.
34. “Barracuda” by Heart
Wanna-be rock stars, you should put “Barracuda” at the top of your lip sync song list. This 1977 hit is both theatrical and heartfelt, creating the perfect stage for your best front-woman moves!
Take advantage of the pause before the chorus – it’s the buildup for an extra-dramatic interpretation of the chorus.
Next: Top one hit wonders of the ’70s (our 1970s one hit wonders list)
35. “My Hero” by Foo Fighters
Prefer something a little more alternative to perform? Foo Fighters’ “My Hero” is a chorus-centered song with the catchiest of choruses. You really can’t miss with this one, as the band is nearly universally-loved, and crowds of all ages will know the words to “My Hero.” The song was not only a chart-topping hit, but also appeared in the television show, “Varsity Blues.”
Because the Foo Fighters are also known for their scorching instrumental solos, you’ll want to make sure your air-drumming and air-guitar games are on point!
Next: The best alternative rock bands through the years (top alt rock bands ever)
36. “Bat Out of Hell” by Meatloaf
Legendary performer Meatloaf passed away in early 2022, and we can’t think of a better way to honor him than with a performance of “Bat Out of Hell.”
Be warned, it’s an epically long song – 8 minutes to be exact! But if you’re up for the type of full-body, full-throttle performance that Meatloaf was known for, add this one to your list!
37. “Truth Hurts” by Lizzo
Lizzo is famous for her larger-than-life persona, but where she shines is in writing catchy tunes that explore serious subjects. “Truth Hurts” is one of the best empowering songs about self-love and finding your way out of a messy relationship.
If you’re feeling down about yourself, belting this one out just might be the cathartic boost you need.
38. “I Love Rock n Roll” by Joan Jett
The name Joan Jett is synonymous with rock-n-roll. “I Love Rock-n-Roll” is her tribute to the music that shaped her, and an ode to the ladies of rock. This is your chance to channel your inner rock goddess by syncing along with the same raw intensity as Joan. Our favorite lip sync performances of “I Love Rock n Roll” also throw in a few air guitar riffs for good measure.
Joan Jett’s 1979 version of the song is a rewrite of the original by the British rock band, The Arrows. We love that Joan turned the tables by changing the lyrics from a typical song about picking up girls to one in which the woman takes the lead.
39. “Gettin Jiggy Wit It” by Will Smith
It may be a little cheesy, but you have to admit this song is catchy. Just a few bars in, you and everyone else in the room won’t be able to get the lyrics out of your head. This hit also inspired a music video that had Will Smith busting out smooth dance moves all over the world.
Don your favorite sunglasses for this one, and get ready to hit the club like it’s 1997.
Next: Greatest R&B songs of all time (rhythm and blues classic hits)
40. “Suspicious Minds” by Elvis Presley
They don’t call him “The King of Rock N’ Roll” for nothing! Elvis was known for putting his all into every performance. While his signature dance moves might have sometimes crossed over into self-parody, they were undeniably entertaining.
Try out your best curl-lipped sneer and don those aviator sunglasses for this one.
41. “Hanging on the Telephone” by Blondie
If there was ever any doubt that Blondie’s Debbie Harry is one of the world’s top rock frontwomen, this 1978 hit should lay it to rest. Her raw vocal power and sexiness gave her one of the most memorable stage personas of all time.
Tease up your hair and get your brightest red lipstick on to emulate Blondie’s punk-meets-new wave aesthetic.
42. “September” by Earth, Wind, and Fire
Earth, Wind, and Fire ruled the airwaves in 1978 with their catchy vocals, strong funk bass lines, and undeniably unique style. While everyone knows the chorus, you aren’t alone if some of the lyrics throw you off. Band member Maurice Wright famously inserted the lyric “ba-de-yah” as a placeholder during writing. The band later decided to simply leave it there!
“September” is the song you want when you’re in a carefree, dancing mood and want an excuse to bring out your hottest disco moves.
43. “Kiss You” by One Direction
New Kids on the Block might have started the boy-band phenomenon, but One Direction took it several steps further. Members of the band, most notably Harry Styles, have gone on to solo superstardom.
With their adorable tailor-made personalities and dresses, choreographed dance moves, and (let’s face it) sicky-sweet lyrics, One Direction was 2010’s ultimate teen dream.
Next: Best 2010s bands (our list of picks)
44. “Good Golly, Miss Molly” by Little Richard
This song, and Little Richard’s flamboyant performances, shocked ’50s audiences. When banned from performing, Richard was undeterred. He simply upped his antics, further alienating mainstream audiences while building his devoted fan base. Decades later, this song’s rollicking rock beat and faux-sexy lyrics still make for a raunchy good time.
45. “(Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones
![[I Can't Get No] Satisfaction](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/MSSxnv1_J2g/0.jpg)
Mick Jagger cements his status as a rock legend with this classic rock anthem. This throwback hit will have the audience singing along with the famous chorus while admiring your (no doubt incredible) Jagger-esque strut. Wanna take it back to 1965? Take a cue from Jagger himself; practice that polished pout, and accessorize your outfit with a psychedelic scarf that doubles as a prop.
Next: The best singers of all time (our ultimate list of singers)
46. “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus
Country lovers rejoice! Billy Ray is here to save the day with his two-stepping 1992 hit “Achy Breaky Heart.” Billy Ray may have a few haters, but this slightly-goofy song still manages to bring a smile to most people’s faces. “Achy Breaky Heart” is made for two-stepping and line dancing, so polish up those moves before you perform.
Next: The top country songs of all time (ever recorded)
47. “Wrecking Ball” by Miley Cyrus
“Wrecking Ball” is the song that proved once and for all that Hannah Montana was no more! This 2013 banger features admirably subtle songwriting techniques that emphasize emotion by using variations in volume and intensity.
Start with the softer opening verse, and then go all-in on the intense chorus, coming in like a – pun intended – wrecking ball!
Next: The sexiest songs of all time (steamy sex fueled songs list)
48. “Proud Mary” by Tina Turner
This song makes us glad that lip-syncing is a thing, because if there’s one woman whose voice we don’t want to try to imitate, it’s Tina’s. She is sheer raw power in this song, building expertly from the “nice and slow” verses to a dizzyingly energetic chorus!
This song is made for dancing, preferably while wearing the shortest of Tina-inspired miniskirts. We only wish that we could keep up with her frenzied brand of non-stop dancing!
49. “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepson
Admit it. Whether you want to or not, you know every single syllable of the lyrics to “Call Me Maybe.” It might be one of the catchiest songs ever, and we are here for it! This is the lip-sync song of choice for those bubbly personalities among us.
Got a crush on someone and aren’t sure how to tell them? We can hardly conceive of a better song to perform for your crush!
Next: Greatest songs about crushes and catching feelings for someone HARD
50. “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
You didn’t think we’d forgotten about Whitney, did you? This one is for all the would-be divas out there! While it was Dolly Parton who first made this song famous, we all know that it’s Whitney who is remembered for it. Her version features heartfelt vocals that swell into her trademark belt.
We recommend starting slowly and holding back the big, dramatic moves for the chorus. Whitney was known for her vulnerable, emotional performances, so don’t hold back from feeling the music and demonstrating that with your whole body.
Next: Greatest female singers of all time (powerful and impactful women singers)
51. “Back in Black” by AC/DC
If you’re looking for something a little harder, it’s hard to beat AC/DC. With a pounding beat and shredding guitars, there’s lots of room for a little dramatic interpretation when you choose to perform this 1980 banger.
If you’re looking for a little inspiration, check out singer Angus Young’s live performances, complete with schoolboy-gone-bad style and crazy emotive facial expressions.
Whatever song you choose, the number one rule for creating a great lip sync performance is to let go and have fun with it! It’s natural to get a little nervous performing before a crowd – even a small one!
But we speak from personal experience when we say that people will not remember whether or not you knew every single syllable of the song, or even if you froze up for a minute. What they will remember is that they had a great time watching you perform because you were enjoying yourself!
As the Head Editor and Writer at Music Grotto, Liam helps write and edit content produced from professional music/media journalists and other contributing writers. He works closely with journalists and other staff to format and publish music content for the Music Grotto website. Liam is also the founding member of Music Grotto and is passionate in disseminating editorial content to its readers.
Liam’s lifelong love for music makes his role at Music Grotto such a rewarding one. He loves researching, writing and editing music content for Music Grotto.
