The future of music

50 Best Tenor Songs for Karaoke or Auditions

December 28, 2023
tenor songs

I’ve carefully selected the best tenor songs perfect for karaoke nights or auditions, aimed at showcasing the dynamic range and power of tenor voices.

These songs are chosen to highlight vocal prowess and leave a lasting impression, whether on stage or in an audition room.

Table of Contents

Top Tenor songs for karaoke or auditions

  • “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran
  • “Someone Like You” by Adele
  • “Let It Be” by The Beatles
  • “Time In A Bottle” by Jim Croce
  • “Stay With Me” by Sam Smith
  • “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel
  • “Somebody To Love” by Queen
  • “Let’s Stay Together” by AI Green
  • “We Are The Champions” by Queen
  • “She Will Be Loved” by Maroon 5

1. “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran

Okay, we won’t pretend this isn’t our favorite Ed Sheeran song. 

Many will agree, too. 

There’s no doubt amongst many pop lovers that the English singer made a lasting impression with “Thinking Out Loud,” a classic love confession everybody wants to hear. 

Sheeran’s smooth vocals are soothing and will get the audience hooked from start to finish. 

2. “Someone Like You” by Adele

Someone Like You” is one of the many great pop songs for karaoke or auditions.

It is Adele’s passionate crooning about a guy who left her and how she hopes to find a new lover just like her ex. 

Adele’s deep voice compliments the moving lyrics. 

That makes it one of the best tenor songs for a karaoke night. 

3. “Let It Be” by The Beatles

The Fab Four have a song for just about every occasion. 

And in this classic 1970 hit, they narrate a story inspired by Paul McCartney’s mother, who sadly passed away when he was only 14. 

“Let It Be” was an instant fan favorite and has since become one of the best tenor songs for auditions. 

See also: Best Beatles Songs

4. “Time In A Bottle” by Jim Croce

Jim Croce’s “Time In A Bottle” is a favorite hit amongst tenor singers.

The singer wrote the reflective song after realizing his wife was pregnant. 

And it has since become one of his signature hits and his last track to reach #1 in the US. 

5. “Stay With Me” by Sam Smith

“Stay With Me” is one of those songs that helped shape Sam Smith’s music career.

Be ready to share your emotions on this one because that’s what most of Sam Smith’s songs are about.

The song is perfect if you have a tenor voice. 

6. “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel

“Bridge Over Troubled Water” has long been interpreted as “someone living through a trying time in life,” which makes Simon & Garfunkel’s hit one of the best songs for overcoming obstacles.

The American folk rock duo is credited with releasing the original version, which has since been covered by Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Linda Clifford, among the rest. 

You will be good to go if you can match Simon’s vocals. 

7. “Somebody To Love” by Queen

We won’t lie to you.

Freddy Mercury’s piercing falsetto is not the easiest to match, no matter how hard you try. 

But that should only increase your desire to get on the stage with “Somebody To Love.”

8. “Let’s Stay Together” by AI Green

AI Green’s voice in “Let Stay Together” is every tenor singer’s dream. 

Another great hit about unconditional love.

AI Green wrote this song to express the desire to stay together in good and bad times. 

Today, it’s a classic hit for karaoke nights, with the power to captivate your audience.

The irresistible melody makes it one of the best songs to dance to. 

9. “We Are The Champions” by Queen

Queen’s “We Are The Champions” is an upbeat song that lifts the mood. 

Turns out it’s also one of the best tenor songs for karaoke parties and auditions. 

Freddy Mercury’s vocals are just what you expect from one of the greatest vocalists in history.

Just make sure to master the lyrics before the audition. 

10. “She Will Be Loved” by Maroon 5

Hello, shy singers.

We finally found something for you. 

We could include all of Maroon 5’s songs in the list of the best tenor songs for karaoke nights.

But this one stands out because it’s more captivating and involves the audience.

11. “Hey Jude” by The Beatles

It shouldn’t be surprising that the Fab Four is again on this list.

They are one of the best acts from the 1960s, after all.

And “Hey Jude” is one of their most famous songs, dedicated to John Lennon’s son, Julian. 

It’s a crowd favorite for many reasons.

And if you take on stage with this one, you might just get everyone involved from start to finish. 

12. “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz

One of Jason Mraz’s best songs dates back to the late 2000s.

It was one of the most popular songs in 2008, played by just about any radio station. 

It is a song for the happy moments when you want to share your affection for a romantic interest. 

13. “Just The Way You Are” by Bruno Mars

Anybody who listened to the 2010s pop music will agree that this Bruno Mars song was probably overplayed on the radio stations. 

It is about unconditional love, with Mars complimenting this special someone for how she makes him feel.

It is fun, catchy, and one to flex those singing muscles.

14. “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson

How about some MJ masterpiece to lift the mood? 

The King of Pop was a crowd mover who always connected with his fans at a personal level.

And he did so with multiple chart-topping hits that ultimately made him one of the most influential figures in pop music history.

But when it comes to the best tenor songs for karaoke from the undisputed King of Pop, we can only think of the iconic “Billie Jean.”

It’s the upbeat tune that gets everyone going. 

And the simple lyrics should make it grab attention right away.

15. “Can’t Stop The Feeling” by Justin Timberlake

Perhaps calling it Justin Timberlake’s signature song is a little exaggeration.

But you have no excuse not to use “Can’t Stop The Feeling” if you want the best tenor songs for a karaoke party.

The catchy song gets everyone on the dance floor. 

Just be ready to match Justin’s vocals. 

16. “Hotel California” by Eagles

Eagles are a famous rock band from the 1970s, mentioned in many discussions about California. 

“Hotel California” is one of the band’s best songs, with the groovy feeling your audience needs.

We are sure this song will make you shine if you trust your vocal range

17. “Can You Feel The Love Tonight?” by Elton John

Maybe nobody makes them like Elton John anymore. 

We aren’t sure if anybody can match The Rocket Man’s voice on this one.

But there’s no shame in trying. 

That’s why we’ve included it in the list of the best tenor songs for karaoke. 

18. “Don’t Look Back In Anger” by Oasis

“Don’t Look Back In Anger” was a different Oasis. 

A philosophical Oasis of the mid-90s.

Nobody seems to know the song’s true meaning, even though many assume it is about moving on even when it hurts. 

Most importantly, everybody agrees it’s one of the best songs for karaoke nights and auditions.

19. “Feeling Good” by Nina Simone

Nina Simone’s “Feeling Good ” brought feel-good vibes and has been covered by many artists, including Michael Buble, Muse, and George Michael. 

You could join the party with your tenor voice if you’re up for it. 

20. “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran is one of the most influential figures in contemporary pop music, always painting a lyrical picture in the listener’s mind. 

His “Perfect” song is one of the best romantic ballads today, dedicated to Ed’s girlfriend turned-wife, Cherry Seaborn.

The lyrics are catchy.

And you can perform the song alone or as a duet. 

We would love to know how you match up against Ed Sheeran’s chest, head, and falsetto combination. 

21. “All of Me” by John Legend 

Is there anybody from the early 2010s who doesn’t remember this John Legend masterpiece?

Let’s face it.

Some were probably bored with listening to this song on every radio station when John released it in 2013. 

The beautiful love song lies within the tenor range as John declares his love for his gorgeous wife.

Make the occasion special by practicing enough before hitting the stage.

22. “Payphone” by Maroon 5 ft. Wiz Khalifa

“Payphone” is a Maroon 5 song that needs no introduction to pop music lovers.

It is a certified banger to master before taking to the stage for an epic performance. 

23. “Babylon” by David Gray

Have you all forgotten about David Gray’s breakup song

It’s probably one of the least popular songs on this list. 

But this is the right tenor song if you want something unique for your audition or karaoke.  

It’s a breath of fresh air in the karaoke bars, often packed with common songs and many people’s favorites. 

24. “Piano Man” by Billy Joel

“Piano Man” continues to headline many concerts because it is one of the best songs in history.

And you could do with the nostalgic song for a karaoke night because it is easy to sing along to and gets the crowd moving. 

25. “Hello” by Lionel Richie

As we’ve seen time and time again, the simplest songs are the best for karaoke nights and auditions.

And Lionel Richie’s song fits the bill, with its simple, catchy lyrics about a beautiful woman the singer is smitten with.

This one promises fun, energy, and everything your audience needs.

26. “Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye

Martin Gaye’s upbeat song is a timeless heat. 

The lyrics are irresistible. 

And the audience might even join you in the performance.

Make sure to have some killer dance moves to win them over. 

27. “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey

“Don’t Stop Believin’” is a legendary song made for dance parties, karaoke nights, and similar performances.

Decades later, it is still one of the best tenor songs for auditions.

28. “I Have A Dream” by ABBA

Give it to ABBA for being one of the most enduring bands in music history. 

The rule of picking the best songs for audition is they should have simple lyrics.

And this ABBA classic does the job where performers need a catchy song with simple lyrics. 

It falls between the tenor and alto range and should be fairly easy to perform. 

29. “Summertime Sadness” by Lana Del Rey

Forget Lana Del Rey’s classic slow, melancholic sound, “Summertime Sadness” is one of the best songs for tenor singers.

Lana’s voice suits the tenor range.

And this is one of her famous songs for female tenor singers. 

30. “It’s a Beautiful Day” by Michael Buble

Amazingly upbeat, with simple lyrics, Michael Buble’s “It’s a Beautiful Day” is the perfect track to match your tenor vocal range. 

If you can do it like Michael, it’s even better.

Otherwise, you may want to practice first to match the singer’s tenor range before hitting the stage. 

31. “No Scrubs” by TLC

“No Scrubs” is still as memorable today as in 1999.

And that makes it one of the best songs for tenor singers.

32. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver

In his quest to go to his hometown, Virginia, John Denver gave us one of the best tenor songs for karaoke or auditions. 

The track cemented John’s legacy as one of the greatest 70s acoustic singers.

And in doing so, we now have a perfect tenor song that transcends generations and is one of the most popular hits today. 

33. “She’s Always a Woman” by Billy Joel

Billy Joel is one of the standout acts from the 60s. 

And his 1977 song is a testimony to his magical vocals that earned him a loyal fan base in the pop-rock arena. 

The song is a tribute to Joel’s wife, narrated in a deep voice that never stops mesmerizing. 

Even though the union never worked out in the end, this Billy Joel masterpiece deserves a place in your list of the best tenor songs for karaoke and auditions. 

34. “Fly Away” by Lenny Kravitz

Lenny Kravitz’s newly found fame in the late 90s and 2000s was made possible by songs as good as “Fly Away.”

It is a reflective song featuring Kravitz’s magical voice.

And it became even more special after winning a 1999 Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Performance. 

This is a must-have for your karaoke party. 

35. “Take It Easy” by Eagles

Here’s a blend of rock, country, and pop to deviate from the standard karaoke songs.

Eagles’ standout song has smooth vocals from lead vocalist Glenn Frey.

And the poignant touch makes it one of the best songs for tenor singers.  

36. “Fireflies” by Owl City

You can say many things about Owl City’s “Fireflies.”

But there’s no doubt it’s one of the catchiest hits from the late 2000s.

The gentle voice throughout the narration makes it an excellent choice for tenor singers. 

37. “Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight & The Pips

Jim Weatherly wrote the original version of “Midnight Train to Georgia.”

But we’d probably never had such an amazing tenor song had it not been for Gladys Knight and The Pips’ 1973 rendition. 

This one ranks highly in the list of pulsating tenor songs with sultry vocals. 

We bet you’ll love it. 

38. “In My Blood” by Shawn Mendes

Shawn Mendes is one of the many contemporary pop singers loved for their tenor voice.

His 2018 track is a glimpse of Mendes’ struggles with anxiety. 

And as the narration continues, you begin to appreciate the singer’s natural ability to be exciting and moving at the same time.

The shift between power rock and light pop makes it the perfect song for mature, self-assured tenor singers. 

39. “Cry Me a River” by Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake’s hit song is perfect for high-tenor voices.

It’s also great for anyone who can match the singer’s falsetto voice. 

40. “You’ve Got a Friend” by James Taylor

Carol King’s version of “You’ve Got a Friend” is probably the most popular.

But James Taylor’s 1971 rendition was just as good, giving it a perfect voice for tenor singers.

41. “Brick” by Ben Folds Five

Ben Folds’ falsetto is precisely what you need to grace the karaoke night. 

The lyrics make it even more powerful, with Ben telling a tale of mistakes, regrets, and everything in between. 

42. “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd 

The Weeknd is one of the most popular R&B and pop singers in the world right now.

And that isn’t expected to change anytime soon if his recent hits are anything to go by. 

In “Blinding Lights,” the Canadian singer croons about the power of love. 

The co-writer Max Martin is always credited with compiling an attractive piece that gets the crowd involved.

43. “You Sang to Me” by Marc Anthony

Marc Anthony’s tenor voice was impossible to ignore in the late 90s and early 2000s. 

His fans will tell you he was better than Ricky Martin in the 90s and 2000s pop scene.

And even though that’s debatable, we can all agree that Anthony’s “You Sang to Me” is one of the best tenor songs for a karaoke bar. 

44. “Smooth Operator” by Sade

You just can’t ignore Sade when talking about the best English bands from the 80s. 

One of the band’s most recognizable hits is “Smooth Operator,” a tale of an attractive conman breaking every woman’s heart. 

Sade Abu’s smooth, husky voice perfectly compliments the beautiful lyrics.

Singing this at a karaoke night will probably make you sexier (Joking). 

45. “Rainy Days and Mondays” by The Carpenters

It’s impossible to exhaust The Carpenter’s wide collection of hit songs.

Their 1971 track proves why they are one of the greatest vocal and instrumental duos of all time. 

Karen Carpenter’s magical voice is the only reason many people fell in love with the musical duo. 

And that shows in “Rainy Days and Mondays,” with Karen singing in her distinctive voice that many female tenors have tried to imitate. 

This is it if you want to get on the stage with a 70s classic. 

46. “These Are Days” by Natalie Merchant 

There’s something for every female tenor singer in Natalie Merchant’s 1992 alternative hit.

Throughout the narration, she shifts between garage rock and soulful pop.

Her contralto voice is unmistakable. 

This one’s an instant showstopper, sure to capture everyone’s attention in the room. 

The biggest question is, can you match Natalie Merchant’s distinctive voice? 

47. “Daniel” by Elton John

The Rocket Man comes back with a perfect low-tenor song with a timeless message. 

The 1973 hit is as emotional as many of Elton John’s songs, telling the story of a Vietnam War veteran longing for his past life.  

48. “The Boys of Summer” by Don Henley

Don Henley released “The Boys of Summer” after departing the Eagles band in 1980. 

The song is about the power of love, with a low tenor voice that everybody enjoys. 

This is the perfect hit to get a little sentimental on the stage. 

49. “Collide” by Howie Day

Howie Day’s low tenor voice made him such a likable figure in the pop-rock scene.

And his hit single from the early 2000s is nice to have in your list of the best tenor songs for karaoke or auditions. 

Howie gets a little creative, shifting between the high notes and lows with a powerful message about love. 

50. “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Green Day 

Completing our list is one of the best songs from the late 90s.

“Good Riddance” is just Billie Joe Armstrong showing a carefree attitude after his lover moved out of the country.

He’s heartbroken but conceals it so well in the humorous lyrics that nobody ever notices the pain. 

The melody is like no other, and Armstrong’s low tenor voice makes it one of the best tenor songs for karaoke or auditions. 

Best Tenor Songs for Karaoke or Auditions – Final Thoughts

That’s our top picks for the best tenor songs. 

As you can see, there are plenty of tenor songs for karaoke or auditions. 

Whether a high tenor or the gritty lows, there’s always something for everyone as long as you’re ready to hit the stage.

Of course, we don’t recommend trying anything beyond your vocal range. 

So, you can practice before hitting the stage.

You may also like: Best Baritone Songs for Karaoke or Auditions

Will Fenton

Will, the founder of MIDDER, is a multifaceted individual with a deep passion for music and personal finance. As a self-proclaimed music and personal finance geek, he has a keen eye for futuristic technologies, especially those that empower creators and the public.

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