While there are manymusicgenres to choose from,when the boy band category comes up at karaoke night, there are some hit songs that are essential choices. Just like when it comes to pickingclassic rock songs for karaoke, these come from some of the biggest acts the industry has seen. Manytunes in the ’80s defined the decade; similarly, these are the songs that defined their era, becoming staples of the airwaves.
While all of these boy bands have their own stories, they share one thing in common: they can stand alongside some of thebiggest touring acts. They have performed on large stages, with some continuing to do so. That’s part of the reason these songs are perfect choices, asthese groups have resonated with audiences worldwide. Regardless of a person’s favorite genre, there’s no denying that these tunes are catchy and serve as perfect connectors for individuals.
10Five - When The Lights Go Out
Album: Five (1998)
When Five burst onto the scene with their debut album in 1998, one of the biggest tracks was “When the Lights Go Out.” The song became so loved thatit reached the Top 10 on theBillboardHot 100. This immediately put the band on the map and got their career off to a great start, as this tune made them instantly recognizable.
From the moment it begins, the song’s memorable beat makes it perfect for performing. This is the type of instrumental that can make an entire room move. To make this even more authentic,a karaoke night at a bowling alley would be the perfect setting. This, of course, is the backdrop for the band’s hit music video for the song.
998º - Because Of You
Album: 98º And Rising
One of the biggest boy bands to emerge from the late ’90s was 98º. Among the group was Nick Lachey, who not only achieved great success with the band but also during his solo career. One of their biggest songs during their initial run was “Because of You.“The song became inescapable as it was a Top 10 hit internationallyand even reached the third spot on theBillboardHot 100.
Although some karaoke songs aim to boost the energy of a room,this one will bring things down in the best way possible. It is slower, but the lyrics come straight from the heart. This song is all about finding the right love and the feelings it evokes. Maybe this isn’t the right song for some occasions, but a wedding, for example, could be the perfect place.
Album: Battleground (2011)
One of the fondest memories of The Wanted is thatthey had one of their biggest songs in 2011, “Glad You Came.“This song skyrocketed on the charts, finishing in the Top 3 of theBillboardHot 100. The tune was described as having a stadium-ready sound, as its catchy melody could fill any size venue. However, its success on the charts wasn’t the only factor driving it forward.
One of its biggest uses was in an episode ofGlee, which helped further enhance its visibility. Its appearance on the show demonstrated exactly how it can be a perfect song to sing at a karaoke night.This is a tune that is ideal for any party, as it gets audiences excited. It commands energy and attention, making it perfect for stealing the show.
7O-Town - All Or Nothing
Album: O-Town (2001)
If you need a powerful song from the heart to sing,“All or Nothing” by O-Town is one of the best choices. This song came from the band’s debut record, and it helped make them stars. Quickly, it became a hit and even reached the third spot on theBillboardHot 100. In fact, it ended up on six of their weekly charts and finished the year on four of those.
What makes it perfect for karaoke is its memorable lyrics throughout. Additionally, its structure is a perfect build that will lead to powerful performances. The verses are soft and calculated; however, the chorus is meant to be belted out. When it kicks in with “‘Cause I want it all,” it’s time to give it your all. Even for those who want to hold back,this tune makes it impossible to do so. Although O-Town has been in and out of the spotlight, this song ensures they should never be forgotten.
6Big Time Rush - Boyfriend
Album: BTR (2010)
One of Nickelodeon’s biggest shows that revolved around music wasBig Time Rush, which focused on the boy band group of the same name. With a huge platform to help,many of their songs became well-known to the audience, including “Boyfriend.“The tune got attention for being catchy, ultimately ending up on sixBillboardcharts.
The song has become so huge that it remains one of the band’s signature tunes as they continue to tour.
Another key aspect of the song was the fact that Snoop Dogg was featured on it. It has become so huge that it remains one of the band’s signature tunes as they continue to tour. Choosing this song to perform means the potential of doing a duet with someone. Additionally, its memorable lyricsmake it easy for others to comprehend right away.
5One Direction - That’s What Makes You Beautiful
Album: Up All Night (2011)
From the moment One Direction was formed,it was clear they had all the ingredients to become a successful boy band. Their debut single, “What Makes You Beautiful,” reaffirmed this. The song quickly became a hit, as it blended genres like power pop and pop rock perfectly. In fact, one of the key elements was the instrumental, which features memorable guitar riffs.
This was only the beginning of their success, but it was a great start as they reached the fourth spot on theBillboardHot 100 and the Top 10 on their 2012 yearly listings. While many of their songs could be great choices,this one will surely keep things exciting. There is a certain energy that this tune commands, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.
4BTS - Dynamite
Album: BE (2020)
In August 2020, BTS released the feel-good song “Dynamite.” This tune was intended to uplift spirits during the COVID-19 pandemic, and that’s exactly what it achieved. From the lyrics to the instrumental,everything about this track is cheerful. Whenever it plays, it instantly changes the mood of the room, providing a euphoric listening experience.
This tune has retained its magic, becoming one of the signature songs of one of the world’s most popular acts.
The song became such a hit that it reached number one on theBillboardHot 100. Additionally, it earned the bandtheir first Grammy Award nomination. Over the years, this tune has retained its magic, becoming a signature song of one of the world’s most popular acts. So, if the mood needs to be elevated on a karaoke night, this is a must.
3New Kids On The Block - You Got It (The Right Stuff)
Album: Hangin’ Tough (1988)
From their sophomore album came one of New Kids on the Block’s signature songs, “You Got It (The Right Stuff).” Having debuted in 1988,the song emerged at the height of the MTV Generation, which helped the tune excel as it became a staple of the channel. Additionally, it nearly reached number one on theBillboardHot 100, finishing in third place.
Even after many decades, this tune remains one of the band’s favorites, as they still perform it at their shows. Therefore, it has never lost its magic. It makes for the perfect karaoke night song, not only because it is upbeat, but also becauseit resonates with many generations. It’s also a bonus that it has memorable choreography to accompany it.
2*NSYNC - Tearin’ Up My Heart
Album: ‘NSYNC (1997)
When it comes to boy bands, one of the biggest acts of all time is *NSYNC. However, to get there, they needed signature songs to boost them along the way. One of their first hits was “Tearin’ Up My Heart.” The song became known for its catchy chorusand, of course, the music video, which featured the band delivering some signature dance moves.
With the band more in memory nowadays, this track still stands as one of their crowning achievements. It is the perfect song to celebrate them, and is one that many people know. Even if they don’t,this tune has proven to be infectious, likely to gain approval almost instantly. If it helped in making *NSYNC popular, it will work at a karaoke night.
1Backstreet Boys - I Want It That Way
Album: Millennium (1999)
With over one billion streams on Spotify and YouTube, “I Want It That Way” is undoubtedly one of the Backstreet Boys' top songs. The tune comes from their 13x platinum album,Millennium, and played a significant role in helping it become a success. Although it peaked at number 6 on the Hot 100,it did reach number one on a couple ofBillboardcharts: Adult Contemporary and Adult Pop Airplay.
During their performance onSNL 50: The Homecoming Concert, the band proved how much this tune can light up a room. Some of the biggest stars in the world were going crazy for it, singing every word. Therefore, it is a great choice for a karaoke night, asmost places have this reaction. This song has now become a timeless classic.
