When it comes to singing, baritone voices have a unique quality that can captivate audiences with their rich, resonant tones.
Whether you’re a professional singer, a fan of karaoke, or getting ready for an audition, choosing the right baritone song can make all the difference in showing off your voice.
To help you find the perfect song, we’ve compiled a list of 50 of the best baritone songs, ranging from classic tunes to modern hits.
These songs were chosen to show how versatile the baritone voice is and to give you a variety of options for different types of music and occasions.
1. “God Bless The U.S.A.” by Lee Greenwood
“God Bless the U.S.A.” was first released in 1984 and has since become an iconic anthem for American patriotism, particularly in times of national crisis and following major events such as the 9/11 attacks.
The song is characterized by its stirring lyrics and powerful chorus, which express a deep love and pride for the United States of America.
Greenwood’s baritone voice adds to the emotional impact of the song as he sings about the beauty of the American landscape, the sacrifices made by its citizens, and the enduring spirit of the American people.
2. “What A Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
The lyrics of “What a Wonderful World” describe the beauty and wonder of the world, despite its many troubles and problems.
Armstrong’s soulful, raspy voice adds a poignant depth to the song as he sings about the blue skies, the bright sun, and the colors of the rainbow.
The song’s message of hope and optimism is powerful because it came out during a time when civil rights struggles and anti-war protests dominated the news in the United States.
The song’s simple yet powerful lyrics and melody have made it a timeless classic, and it has been covered by many artists over the years.
3. “Quando, Quando, Quando” by Michael Bublé & Nelly Furtado
“Quando, Quando, Quando” was originally written in Italian by Tony Renis and Alberto Testa, with English lyrics by Pat Boone.
The lyrics describe a person’s desire to be with their loved one, asking when they will meet again and expressing the desire to be close to them.
Bublé and Furtado’s version of the song features their smooth, soulful voices and a modern, upbeat arrangement that incorporates pop and jazz elements.
The duet adds a new dimension to the song, with the two singers playing off each other and creating a sense of playful flirtation.
4. “Smile” by Nat King Cole
“Smile” is a classic song that Charlie Chaplin wrote in 1936 for his movie “Modern Times.”
The song has since been covered by many artists, but one of the most popular versions is by Nat King Cole.
Nat King Cole’s version of “Smile” was recorded in 1954 and released as a single in 1955.
The lyrics of “Smile” are about finding the strength to keep going even when things seem difficult.
The song encourages listeners to keep smiling, even when their hearts are aching, and to believe that tomorrow will bring better days.
5. “L-O-V-E” by Nat King Cole
“L-O-V-E” became a hit single, reaching number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1965, and has since been covered by many artists.
It is known for its simple, but upbeat, melody and the positive message of love and devotion that it sends.
The song is a mid-tempo jazz-pop ballad with lyrics that speak of love and devotion.
It is a timeless classic that showcases Cole’s incredible baritone voice and is sure to remain a favorite for many years to come.
6. “My Way” by Frank Sinatra
The song “My Way” was written by Jacques Revaux and Claude Francois, and Paul Anka wrote the lyrics.
The song was released in 1969 and quickly became a classic.
The song is seen as a reflection on the narrator’s life, his decisions, his past mistakes, and his resolution to continue living according to his own rules.
The baritone version of the song is especially powerful, as the low register of the voice helps to convey the emotion of the lyrics.
It has been covered by many baritone singers over the years and is a great choice for a baritone solo or as a duet.
7. “The Wanderer” by Dion
“The Wanderer” is about a man who travels from town to town, never staying in one place for too long.
He sings about the freedom he feels as a wanderer and the experiences he has had on his travels.
Despite this, he admits that he is lonely and longs for someone to share his life with.
The lyrics of “The Wanderer” have been interpreted differently over the years.
Some see it as a celebration of the carefree lifestyle of the early 1960s, while others see it as a commentary on the emptiness of that lifestyle.
8. “She Believes In Me” by Kenny Rogers
Kenny Rogers had a rich, deep voice that was well-suited for baritone songs, and “She Believes in Me” is a perfect showcase for his vocal range and tone.
The song is about a man who is grateful for the unwavering belief and support of his significant other, who has always been there for him through thick and thin.
The man recognizes that he wouldn’t be where he is today without her unwavering faith in him and promises to continue to do everything in his power to make her proud.
The song’s emotional and sincere lyrics, coupled with Rogers’ soulful delivery, helped it become a massive hit for him.
9. “Have I Told You Lately” by Rod Stewart
“Have I Told You Lately” is a beautiful love song originally written and recorded by Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison in 1989.
Rod Stewart’s version is arguably the most popular cover of the song.
Rod Stewart’s version of “Have I Told You Lately” is a beautiful ballad that showcases his distinctive baritone voice.
The song’s melody is simple yet powerful, and its lyrics express deep feelings of love and gratitude toward a significant other.
It’s a great song to sing at karaoke or in an audition because it shows off the singer’s vocal range and ability to show emotions.
10. “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers
“Unchained Melody” is a classic song originally written by Alex North and Hy Zaret in 1955.
It was first recorded by Todd Duncan that same year, but it was the 1965 version by The Righteous Brothers that became the most well-known and beloved.
The Righteous Brothers’ version of the song features the powerful baritone voice of Bobby Hatfield, with Bill Medley providing the harmonies.
11. “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” by Bryan Adams
“(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” was featured on the soundtrack album for the 1991 film “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.”
The song was released as a single in 1991 and became a worldwide hit, topping the charts in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
The song is a power ballad that features Adams’ signature baritone vocals and a memorable guitar riff.
The lyrics express the depth of the singer’s love for someone and his commitment to doing anything to make them happy.
The song’s romantic theme and emotional delivery made it a popular choice for weddings and other special occasions.
12. “Moon River” by Andy Williams
“Moon River” was first performed by Audrey Hepburn in the 1961 movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” and it won the Academy Award for Best Original Song that same year.
Williams’s version of “Moon River” has his signature smooth baritone voice, which fits the song’s dreamy, romantic mood perfectly.
“Moon River” is a great baritone song for karaoke or auditions because it lets the singer show how well they can use their voice to show emotion and tell a story.
The song is not overly challenging, but it does require a certain level of finesse and subtlety to bring it to life.
13. “Sailing” by Christopher Cross
“Sailing” was released in 1980 and won multiple awards, including a Grammy Award for Song of the Year.
It has a slow, soothing melody and a vocal range that baritone singers can handle.
The song’s lyrics describe the feeling of freedom and peace that comes with sailing, making it a perfect choice for a laid-back performance.
14. “Hello Again” by Neil Diamond
“Hello Again” was released as a single in 1980 and was also included on Neil Young’s album The Jazz Singer, which served as the soundtrack to the film of the same name.
The song features Diamond’s signature baritone voice and a soft, melodic instrumental backing.
It is a romantic ballad that tells the story of a man who is reunited with a former lover and expresses his feelings of love and longing for her.
15. “Hard To Say I’m Sorry” by Chicago
“Hard to Say I’m Sorry,” which was originally released in 1982, is a classic ballad that showcases the power and range of a baritone voice.
The song has a slow tempo and a simple melody, making it a great choice for a karaoke or audition song.
The song’s lyrics express regret and difficulty in apologizing to a loved one after a fight or a misunderstanding.
“Hard to Say I’m Sorry” was a commercial success for Chicago, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart.
16. “When I Fall In Love” by Nat King Cole
“When I Fall in Love” was first heard in the movie “One Minute to Zero” in 1952.
Since then, it has become a timeless classic that has been covered by many artists.
Nat King Cole recorded his version of “When I Fall in Love” in 1957, and it quickly became one of his signature songs.
“When I Fall in Love” is an excellent choice for baritone singers looking for a romantic ballad to perform at karaoke or an audition.
The song’s slow tempo and simple melody provide an opportunity for the singer to showcase their voice and express the song’s emotional depth.
The song’s message of falling in love and giving one’s heart completely is both timeless and relatable, making it an ideal choice for any romantic occasion.
17. “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole
“Unforgettable” is a tribute to a love that is impossible to forget, with the singer acknowledging that even though they have tried to move on, they still think about their lost love constantly.
Nat King Cole’s smooth baritone voice perfectly captures the wistful and romantic mood of the song.
His version of “Unforgettable” was so popular that it was re-recorded as a duet with his daughter, Natalie Cole, in 1991, using a recording of his original vocals.
This version won several Grammy Awards and became a hit all over again, letting a new generation of people hear the song all over again.
18. “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers
“Ain’t No Sunshine” was released in 1971 as a single from Withers’s debut album, Just As I Am.
Overall, “Ain’t No Sunshine” is a timeless classic that showcases the talents of baritone singers, making it an excellent choice for karaoke or audition performances.
The lyrics express the feeling of emptiness and loneliness that comes with the absence of a loved one.
Even though the song is only a few minutes long, it has had a lasting effect and has been covered by many artists, including Michael Jackson, Sting, and John Mayer.
19. “Black Dog” by Led Zeppelin
The lyrics of “Black Dog” are somewhat cryptic but are thought to be about a mysterious and seductive woman that the singer is struggling to resist.
The title “Black Dog” is said to be a reference to a black Labrador retriever that was hanging around the recording studio during the recording of the album.
Additionally, “Black Dog” is a crowd-pleaser that many people will recognize and enjoy, making it a great choice for karaoke nights or talent shows.
Its upbeat tempo and memorable guitar riffs make it a fun and engaging song to perform.
20. “Circles” by Post Malone
Post Malone usually makes hip-hop and trap music, but “Circles” is a pop song with a lot of guitars that is different from his usual style.
The song talks about broken hearts and how hard it is to move on from a past relationship.
“Circles” talks about a toxic relationship that Post Malone can’t seem to let go of, even though he knows it’s not good for him.
It also became a commercial success, peaking at number four on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and reaching the top ten in several other countries.
21. “End Of The Road” by Boyz II Men
“End Of the Road” is about a relationship that has come to an end and the pain and sadness that comes with it.
The lyrics express the difficulty of letting go and the desire to hold onto something that has already slipped away.
The song’s emotional lyrics also give baritone singers the chance to show off their ability to convey a sense of heartbreak and longing.
The song features the signature Boyz II Men harmonies, with each member taking turns singing lead.
22. “One Sweet Day” by Mariah Carey & Boyz II Men
“One Sweet Day” is a ballad that deals with the theme of loss and longing for a loved one who has passed away.
Carey wrote the song in memory of David Cole, her friend, and collaborator in the duo C+C Music Factory, who had died earlier that year.
The emotional depth and complexity of the song make it a great choice for auditions because it lets you show off a wide range of skills.
“One Sweet Day” was a huge commercial success, spending 16 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100 chart, which was a record for the most weeks at number one.
23. “I’ll Make Love To You” by Boyz II Men
“I’ll Make Love to You” is a classic R&B ballad that features beautiful harmonies and a smooth baritone lead vocal.
It’s a slow, sensual ballad with the group’s signature harmonies and love-themed lyrics.
The lyrics express a desire to make love to a special someone.
“I’ll Make Love to You” was a commercial success, spending 14 weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and also reaching the top of the charts in several other countries.
It earned Boyz II Men a Grammy Award for “Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals” in 1995.
24. “Kiss From A Rose” by Seal
“Kiss From A Rose” was released in 1994 as a single from Seal’s second eponymous album, Seal II.
“Kiss From A Rose” is a ballad with a lush orchestral arrangement and powerful vocals by Seal.
The song is known for the catchy piano riff that starts it and keeps coming back throughout.
The lyrics are poetic and metaphorical, with Seal singing about the transformative power of love and the beauty of a kiss from a rose.
25. “I Swear” by All-4-One
“I Swear” is a song written by Gary Baker and Frank J. Myers that became a hit for American country music artist John Michael Montgomery in 1993 and for All-4-One in 1994.
It is an R&B/pop song that features a soft rock-influenced arrangement.
“I Swear” is about a couple making a vow of love to each other and has been covered by many other artists, including Shirley Horn in a tribute to Miles Davis and trumpeter/vocalist Chet Baker.
26. “You’ll Be In My Heart” by Phil Collins
“You’ll Be in My Heart” is a song by English musician Phil Collins. It was written and produced by Collins for the soundtrack of the 1999 Disney animated film Tarzan.
As a baritone himself, Collins’ deep, rich voice perfectly suits the emotional lyrics of the song.
The lyrics of the song convey a message of love and protection, with the singer promising to always be there for the person he loves, no matter what.
27. “The Power Of Love” by Huey Lewis & The News
“The Power of Love” was released as a single in 1985 and was featured on the soundtrack for the film “Back to the Future.”
The song’s range is well-suited for baritone voices, with a comfortable low range and some high notes that can showcase a singer’s range and power.
“The Power of Love” is a great song for baritone singers who need a song for karaoke or an audition.
28. “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen
“Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen is a powerful and emotionally charged song that can be a great choice for karaoke or auditions.
The lyrics of “Hallelujah” are full of poetic and philosophical references, and the song’s themes of love, loss, and spirituality can resonate with many people.
The song’s lyrics are complex and open to interpretation.
The word “hallelujah” itself is a Hebrew word meaning “praise the Lord,” but the song’s meaning goes beyond religious connotations.
29. “Angels” by Robbie Williams
“Angels” is a ballad with an uplifting and anthemic chorus.
The lyrics describe the singer’s struggles and the role that angels play in helping him overcome his troubles.
The song has been widely interpreted as a tribute to Williams’ mother, who passed away shortly before the song’s release.
The melody and range of the song work well with a baritone voice, and the lyrics’ emotional depth and positive message can make for a powerful performance at an audition.
30. “Up Where We Belong” by Joe Cocker & Jennifer Warnes
“Up Where We Belong” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1983 and has been covered by many artists since then.
The song has meaningful lyrics that can be interpreted in different ways.
It can be seen as a romantic love song, a tribute to overcoming obstacles, or an anthem of hope and inspiration.
The song is well-known and beloved, which can make it a crowd-pleaser at karaoke events or auditions.
“Up Where We Belong” can be a solid choice for baritones looking for a classic duet that showcases their vocal abilities while also appealing to a wide audience.
31. “All of Me” by John Legend
“All of Me” has a catchy melody and emotional lyrics that can appeal to a wide range of audiences.
The song showcases John Legend’s soulful and powerful voice, but it is also a great choice for singers who have a more modest vocal range.
“All of Me” has become a classic love song that many people can relate to, which makes it a great choice for romantic occasions such as weddings and anniversaries.
32. “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban
“You Raise Me Up” is a song originally composed by the Norwegian-Irish duo Secret Garden, with lyrics written by Irish novelist Brendan Graham.
The song gained international popularity after being covered by American singer Josh Groban in 2003.
The song has become an anthem of hope, with lyrics that talk about finding strength and hope when things are hard.
“You Raise Me Up” is a beautiful and uplifting song that baritone singers can use to show off their vocal range and emotional depth.
33. “I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz
“I Won’t Give Up” is a slow, introspective ballad that features Mraz’s signature acoustic guitar sound and heartfelt lyrics about the struggles and rewards of a committed relationship.
The song’s lyrics speak about the importance of perseverance and dedication in a relationship and the need to continue fighting for love even when faced with obstacles and challenges.
“I Won’t Give Up” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
34. “Home” by Michael Bublé
“Home” is a heartfelt song that can showcase a baritone’s ability to convey emotion through his vocals.
It is a great choice for any performer because it is easy to sing, has a strong emotional impact, and is familiar.
The song has a nostalgic feel and is about finding a place of comfort and belonging.
Bublé sings about being on the road and missing his loved ones, but also about knowing he has a place to call home where he feels safe and loved.
35. “La Vie En Rose” by Louis Armstrong
“La Vie En Rose” is a song originally performed by French singer Édith Piaf.
Louis Armstrong did record his version of the song in 1950, which became a hit and is considered a classic rendition of the song.
“La Vie En Rose” is a beautiful love song that celebrates the joys of being in love and seeing the world through rose-colored glasses.
Whether you’re singing it for fun at a karaoke night or using it as an audition piece, this song is a great choice for showcasing your vocal abilities and emotional range.
36. “Can’t Help Falling In Love” by Elvis Presley
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” is a classic love song with a beautiful melody and lyrics, making it a perfect fit for baritone singers.
The lyrics express the singer’s feelings of helplessness and surrender in the face of their love for someone else.
With its simple structure and emotive lyrics, this song is sure to impress any audience and showcase the best of a baritone singer’s vocal abilities.
37. “Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton
“Wonderful Tonight” was written for Clapton’s then-wife Pattie Boyd, who had previously been married to George Harrison of the Beatles.
The song’s lyrics describe the beauty of the woman Clapton is with and how she looks “wonderful tonight.”
The song is often played at weddings and romantic events and has become one of Clapton’s most popular and enduring hits.
It has been covered by many other artists over the years and remains a beloved classic of the rock and roll era.
38. “You Are So Beautiful” by Joe Cocker
“You Are So Beautiful” is a popular love song written by Billy Preston and Bruce Fisher.
Joe Cocker recorded a cover version of the song in 1974, which became a hit single and one of his signature songs.
The song has a slow, soulful melody, and the lyrics are full of love and admiration for the singer’s partner.
Many people think that Joe Cocker’s version of the song is one of the best because of his unique baritone voice and emotional performance.
39. “When A Man Loves A Woman” by Percy Sledge
The lyrics of “When A Man Loves A Woman” describe a man’s intense love and devotion for a woman.
The song begins with the line, “When a man loves a woman, he can’t keep his mind on nothin’ else” and continues to describe how the man would do anything for the woman he loves, even if it meant sacrificing his own needs and desires.
The song’s emotional power comes from Sledge’s soulful, passionate delivery of the lyrics, as well as the dramatic arrangement of the music.
The song features a slow, steady beat, with Sledge’s vocals building to a climax in the chorus.
40. “Yesterday” by The Beatles
“Yesterday” is one of the most covered songs in the history of recorded music, with over 2,200 versions recorded to date.
The song is a melancholy ballad, with McCartney’s baritone vocals accompanied by a single acoustic guitar.
The lyrics express regret over lost love and the desire to go back to the past.
In 1984, “Yesterday” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, and in 1997, it was named the most-covered song in history by the Guinness Book of World Records.
41. “Hey Jude” by The Beatles
“Hey Jude” was written by Paul McCartney and released as a single in August 1968.
The song was included in the band’s album, known as the White Album.
“Hey Jude” has become popular for karaoke and auditions because of its widespread recognition.
The song’s simple structure and easy-to-sing melody make it accessible for singers of all skill levels
The song’s lyrics were originally written to comfort John Lennon’s son Julian during his parents’ divorce, but they evolved into a more universal message of encouragement and hope.
42. “Let It Be” by The Beatles
The lyrics of “Let It Be” were inspired by a dream McCartney had about his late mother Mary, who appeared to him and told him to “let it be.”
The melody of the song works well for baritone singers because it is in a lower vocal range.
The song’s message is one of hope and acceptance, encouraging listeners to let go of their worries and have faith that things will work out in the end.
“Let It Be” is a great choice for baritone singers looking to showcase their vocal range and emotional depth in karaoke or audition settings.
See also: Best Beatles Songs
43. “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Frankie Valli
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” is a timeless classic that is often considered one of the best baritone songs for karaoke or auditions.
The song’s melody and lyrics are perfectly suited for baritone singers, as the vocal range and tone required to perform the song are well within the capabilities of a baritone voice
The song’s lyrics are romantic and catchy, with a chorus that is instantly recognizable and easy to sing along to.
The song’s message is one of adoration and infatuation, with the singer unable to take his eyes off his partner.
44. “My Girl” by The Temptations
“My Girl” is a classic Motown song, released in 1965.
It’s a great choice for baritone singers who want to show off their vocal range and romantic side at karaoke or an audition.
The song’s melody fits well in a lower vocal range, which makes it a great choice for showing how well a singer can control and use their voice.
The song’s lyrics are romantic and catchy, with a message of devotion and love.
45. “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg” by The Temptations
“Ain’t Too Proud To Beg” is about a man who is willing to do anything to win back his lover’s affection, even if it means begging and pleading.
The song features lead vocals by David Ruffin, with backing vocals by the other members of The Temptations.
The song was a commercial success, reaching number 13 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and number one on the US Billboard R&B chart.
46. “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King
“Stand By Me” has a memorable opening bass line and a simple yet powerful melody making it one of the most beloved and recognizable songs of all time.
The lyrics speak to the universal human desire for companionship and support and have resonated with audiences around the world for decades.
The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including John Lennon, who recorded a popular version in 1975.
In 2015, “Stand By Me” was added to the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress because of its cultural, artistic, and historical importance.
47. “Piano man” by Billy Joel
“Piano Man” by Billy Joel is a classic and popular song that is often performed at karaoke and in auditions.
It is a great choice for baritone singers, as the song is sung in a comfortable vocal range for that voice type.
The song is a fictional account of Joel’s experiences as a piano player in a Los Angeles piano bar.
It tells the story of the people he meets while playing the piano, such as a real estate novelist, a waitress, and the manager of the bar.
The lyrics are poignant and relatable, making it a great song to showcase storytelling abilities and emotional depth in performance.
48. “Cracklin’ Rosie” by Neil Diamond
“Cracklin’ Rosie” is named after a type of rosé wine called “Cracklin’ Rosé” that Diamond encountered while performing in Canada.
The lyrics describe Diamond’s love for the wine and the effect it has on him and his friends.
“Cracklin’ Rosie” has become a beloved classic and a fan favorite, making it a great choice for karaoke or auditions.
Its popularity and familiarity with audiences can help to engage and captivate a crowd, making for an enjoyable performance.
49. “Slip Slidin’ Away” by Paul Simon
“Slip Slidin’ Away” features a memorable melody, introspective lyrics, and Simon’s distinctive baritone voice.
Simon’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person slipping away from a relationship, a dream, or even life itself.
It has become a popular choice for karaoke and auditions due to its catchy chorus and emotive delivery.
The title phrase, “Slip slidin’ away,” refers to the idea that time and opportunities are slipping away, no matter how hard we try to hold onto them.
The emotional weight of the lyrics, combined with Simon’s beautiful melody and vocal delivery, make it a great choice for a powerful and moving performance.
50. “Oh Very Young” by Cat Stevens
“Oh Very Young” features a gentle melody, poignant lyrics, and Stevens’ warm and rich baritone voice.
The song is a gentle acoustic ballad that speaks to the wisdom and joy of youth.
The lyrics of “Oh Very Young” are reflective and introspective, dealing with the theme of mortality and the fleeting nature of life.
Its beautiful melody, poignant lyrics, and Stevens’ expressive baritone voice make it an excellent choice for karaoke or auditions, especially for singers looking to showcase the lower range of their voice.
Baritone Songs – Final Thoughts
The baritone voice is a strong and versatile instrument that can be used in many different types of music.
Our list of the 50 Best Baritone Songs has a wide range of songs that singers can use for karaoke or auditions to show off their range and versatility.
The songs are a mix of old favorites and new hits, so singers can choose the one that best fits their style and personality.
With these songs, baritone singers can captivate audiences with their soulful and rich vocal tones, making them stand out from the crowd.
You may also like: Best Karaoke Songs for Men
