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

Smells Like Teen SpiritNirvana29rank/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.

Bohemian RhapsodyQueen30rank/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 Gaga31rank/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.

I Want It That WayBackstreet Boys32rank/position

Backstreet Boys – I Want It That Way (Official HD Video)

Released in April 1999, this is the ultimate love song from the American vocal group Backstreet Boys.

The lyrics, which portray the delicate distance between lovers, at times express the frustration of words failing to capture the depth of emotion.

The beauty woven by its melody and harmonies remains undimmed even after more than 20 years, continuing to captivate people around the world.

The chorus’s question, “Tell me why,” symbolizes the unanswerable doubts within a relationship.

Though relatively simple in its lyrical structure, the heartfelt delivery makes it a song that, when sung with friends at karaoke, is sure to revive fresh memories of youth.

Girls Just Want To Have FunCyndi Lauper33rank/position

Cyndi Lauper – Girls Just Want To Have Fun (Official Video)

After a long period of paying her dues, Cyndi Lauper finally made her debut, and her signature song became a worldwide hit as an anthem celebrating women’s freedom and liberation.

Released in 1983, the track reached the top 10 in over 25 countries and hit number one in 10.

Its distinctive vocals and upbeat melody continue to resonate with many people today.

Despite its low budget, the music video drew attention for its innovative concept and won Best Female Video at the 1984 MTV Video Music Awards.

Known as a feminist anthem, this song is perfect for getting the crowd going at karaoke or parties.

It’s My LifeBon Jovi34rank/position

Bon Jovi – It’s My Life (Official Music Video)

Live your own life, not someone else’s—live it to the fullest! The American rock band’s classic “It’s My Life” inspires that feeling.

At karaoke, it might look cool to sing it in a rock style while imitating the husky tone of the vocalist.

Careless WhisperWham!35rank/position

George Michael – Careless Whisper (Official Video)

A big hit ballad by the British duo WHAM!, George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley.

In Japan, Hideki Saijo and Hiromi Go also covered it.

It’s quite rare for two artists to release covers around the same time in Japan, which suggests the melody really resonates with Japanese listeners.

Plus, for a ballad, it feels like it would work in karaoke without killing the vibe, so if you’re a strong singer, definitely give it a try!