Funny Western pop songs for karaoke skits
When you think of karaoke in Japan, most people sing J‑pop, but every now and then someone does an English song and the room really lights up, right?
This time, we’re featuring “interesting” tracks from Western music.
That doesn’t mean songs that are simply funny.
In Japan, where English isn’t widely spoken, singing Western songs just because the lyrics are funny won’t really land.
Rather than “funny” as in comical, we’ve selected songs that are “interesting” in the sense of intriguing.
Of course, we’ve only picked tracks that are likely to hype up a karaoke session, so feel free to use this as a reference!
Funny Western songs for karaoke (1–10)
Shake It OffTaylor Swift
A massive hit from 2014.
It’s a song that’s practically synonymous with Taylor Swift.
It might be more fitting to call it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser than a novelty track, but the sense of exhilaration is incredible—if you can sing it properly, the chorus will have the whole karaoke room erupting.
Sex MachineJames Brown
Known for the famous “Get up!” line, this is one of James Brown’s signature songs and a monumental funk anthem.
It might take some time to nail his distinctive moves, but since it’s a classic everyone knows, mastering it will likely make you a hit at karaoke or any party.
We Will Rock YouQueen
Cosplay might become a must, but if you can capture Freddie Mercury’s character well, it’s guaranteed to hype everyone up.
Everyone knows the songs and there’s call-and-response, so could a karaoke box turn into an arena?
Short ShortsThe Royal Teens
If you want to liven up karaoke with a laid-back, easygoing song, go with “Short Shorts.” It’s performed by The Royal Teens, a band from New Jersey.
As an early rock ’n’ roll piece, it blends a rock flavor with a touch of jazz.
It’s also used as the theme song for the Japanese TV show “Tamori Club,” so it might get a good reaction if you cue it up at karaoke.
Be sure to check it out.
Scatman (ski-ba-bop-ba-dop-bop)Scatman John
Scatman John’s biggest hit song, “Scatman (Ski-Ba-Bop-Ba-Dop-Bop).” His rap-style vocals, which turned his stutter—a chronic condition—into a strength, became a sensation and the track was a worldwide smash.
He was incredibly popular in Japan as well, appearing in many music media outlets and commercials during his active years.
To be honest, it’s extremely difficult, so pulling it off is a real challenge.
That said, even the failed attempts are entertaining in their own way, so by all means give it a try at karaoke!