In addition to writing excellent articles for you faithful AP Party readers, I have spent my summer working at a local karaoke bar. Along with paying my rent, the job has taught me one thing over the past three months: Y’all sing the same damn songs.
I get it. Songs are popular for a reason and that’s why we hear them at every karaoke bar and wedding reception — the Venn diagram of which make a near-perfect circle — and there are very few moments as embarrassing as realizing you don’t know the verse to the song you’re singing. Don’t worry, I’m not here to ask you never to sing these songs again. All I’m asking is that you consider some replacement options because cutting the frequency of the oversung by 50 percent would be much appreciated by your servers, DJs and regulars alike.
Since karaoke falls into the “service industry,” please sing whatever your heart desires — even if it’s one of the tired tracks mentioned below. Though if you take a look at these other suggestions, I’m sure you will find something you like.
“Born To Run” by Bruce Springsteen, replacing “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi
When it come to epic anthems about the working class, Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer” is one of the most iconic. Bruce Springteen’s “Born to Run” checks off all of those boxes, including the desire to rise above your standing and escaping to something bigger. Not to mention both songs have Jersey roots. I understand The Boss’ hit doesn’t follow the verse-chorus-verse structure of its more simple counterpart, but if you can bring it for “Born to Run,” you’ll stand out a lot more to those who heard Bon Jovi three hours before you took the stage.
“Real World” by Matchbox Twenty, replacing “Semi-Charmed Life” by Third Eye Blind
I once heard Third Eye Blind’s breakthrough hit three times in one day. It was a lot to take in, not just for me but to the point that many customers complained. To avoid this fellow 90’s mainstream-alternative, Matchbox Twenty — specifically their own hit single, “Real World” — is a fine replacement choice. The lyrics aren’t as fast, so you won’t necessarily impress your friends with your ability to read quickly. But I have yet to see someone nail Third Eye Blind’s reflection on meth addiction.
“Can You Feel The Love Tonight” from The Lion King, instead of “A Whole New World” from Aladdin
Look, “A Whole New World” is the best Disney ballad. Plus it’s a duet and lends itself to a theatrical performance. Fellow Disney movie tune “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” is a beautiful song and has an internal monologue in the form of song as well. You can’t get more theatrical than that.
“What A Girl Wants” by Christina Aguilera, instead of “Always Be My Baby” by Mariah Carey
This one was difficult because Carey’s song IS A JAM. Few experiences are as magical as seeing people of all backgrounds come together to rock out to some prime MC. Again, this list isn’t about replacing any one song completely (in this case, we can all agree that would be a crime against humanity) but providing some variety. For those with some serious pipes, “What a Girl Wants” allows those to show the world their skills through Aguilera’s declaration/appreciative anthem for the men who know how to contribute to their relationships.
“Tiny Dancer” by Elton John over “Piano Man” by Billy Joel
As I said before, I don’t want to institute any strict rules when it comes to the art of karaoke, but there are two I have considered. Both involve Mr. Joel and one involves “Piano Man,” the song that has become one of the sing-along mainstays of countless bars in the world, not just karaoke ones. If I had my way, no one could sing this song until an hour to bar close. While it quickly became passé to even mention the existence of “Tiny Dancer” after Almost Famous, it’s safe to say that 15 years is a sufficient moratorium. At risk of becoming one of my “oversung” five years from now, my experience has led me to dare say Elton John’s ballad is currently undersung.
“Your Love” by The Outfield, instead of “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey
One of the best tips anyone can offer a new karaoke singer is that owning a performance is much more important than actually being a “good singer.” I have to believe this is one of the reasons why Journey’s anthem-iest anthem of all the anthems is so popular. There isn’t one person who at one point didn’t like this song, so allow those who have grown tired of it to love this inspirational ballad once again. “Your Love” allows even the worst singers to belt to their heart’s content, leaving any need for talent behind — especially when you don’t have to live up to a nearly-unreachable bar set by OG Journey frontman Steve Perry.
“Whatta Man” by Salt-N-Pepa, rather than “Shoop” by Salt ‘N’ Pepa or “No Scrubs” by TLC
As more and more female rappers rise to the top of their game, like Nicki Minaj and Azealia Banks, along with past acts like Lil’ Kim and Missy Elliott, it’s become more and more clear how important Salt-N-Pepa were to rap as a whole. Despite this, people seem to forget the duo didn’t just “Shoop” and “Push It.” I’m also recommending “Whatta Man” over TLC’s “No Scrubs,” as both urge the less fair sex to man up and quite frankly, it’s a better song.
“Islands in the Stream” by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, replacing “Picture” by Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow
Duets are tough, particularly because they have been abandoned as of late, in favor of the “Feat.” collaborations. On a slow night, I once saw a couple burn through duets to the point where they unironically performed Eminem’s “Stan” pretty well until it got awkward at the penultimate verse. The absence of modern duets leaves many to default to the song in which most first saw Kid Rock’s country side. Along with providing some variety, “Islands in the Stream” is just a great song. Everyone knows the chorus thanks to Mya’s part in “Ghetto Superstar.” Plus, if it’s good enough for Jim Halpert and Michael Scott, it’s good enough for you.
Anything instead of “We Didn’t Start the Fire” by Billy Joel
Seriously, this song is terrible. If you absolutely must spout dated pop-culture references, opt for Eminem’s “The Real Slim Shady” or “Without Me.” At least those will be more relevant with your audience.
So there you have it. These are just my suggestions. Are there any songs that you think need a break when it comes to karaoke? Do you have any other substitution ideas? Let me know in the comments below. I’m all ears.
