Why can’t we all just sing-along?

Favourite songs from a closet karaoke king.

Run out of song ideas for your shower, choir or Sing for Good entry? Fear not! Here are a few great tunesI love that sound amazing when sung with a group. Some are well known. Some are outside-of-the-box. All of them are amazing! Are you game to try them?

• Bohemian Rhapsody
  Queen
  Queen’s epic song is a masterclass in lyrics, dynamics and pitch. It also sounds awesome when sung by a large group. Considered one of the greatest songs of all time, the three verses mark different states of mind and allow for huge vocal range. The song starts slowly with an a cappella intro before building to its explosive and defiant ending. Instantly recognisable and endlessly fun.

• California Dreaming
  The Mamas and the Papas
  This song is a perfect for a choir because of its distinct harmonies and repeated lyrics. When sung together it sounds amazing. Simple lyrics make it easy for everyone to remember and learn quickly, while also painting a vivid picture of a sun-loving Californian feeling the cold in the autumn streets of New York.

• Stairway To Heaven
  Led Zeppelin
  This is one of the greatest songs to ever be written thanks to its beautiful musical composition and amazing lyrics. Stairway To Heaven is another one that starts off slowly and gradually builds to an epic climax. Each verse is sung at a different tempo as it builds to its final conclusion. The song’s lyrics are cryptic and rich allowing for endless interpretations.

• Dreams
  The Cranberries
  This is a slightly more modern rock song with wonderful harmonies. The song is about dreaming of falling in love and involves some pretty challenging harmonies in between verses. Nonetheless, when performed correctly it can be both beautiful and rousing.

• Build Me Up Buttercup
  The Foundations
  Time for some fun! Fans of There’s Something About Mary will remember this song from the end credits. The song can be divided up between groups nicely with repeated lyrics. Unlike some of the others on the list, it’s a little less serious and a good one when you’re feeling the mood to just let it all out!

• Thunderstruck
  AC/DC
  Not a song traditionally sung by a choir, but that’s what makes Thunderstruck so much fun. While the harmonies may not be as polished as some of the other bands and musicians on this list, there is no doubting the intensity of the song.  Get into your old school uniform (if you should have it) and unleash your inner Aussie rock god!

• Kiss From A Rose
  Seal
  The song begins with wonderful harmonies and then the familiar lyrics: “There used to be a greying tower alone by the sea”.  Despite what many people think, this song isn’t about Seal’s love for Heidi Klum, as it was released long before the two became a couple. Regardless, it’s a powerful and rich song!

• Rolling In The Deep
  Adele
  Disclaimer: Must be sung with energy! This song has been performed by many choirs, and for good reason. It’s an incredible song sung with and about power and strength. When performed by a choir it’s hard not to feel yourself rallying behind Adele as its lyrical power is fully realised.  Its catchy lyrics and infectious rhythm will be enough to win over even the toughest crowd.

• Africa
  Toto
  This one perfectly lends itself to a choir thanks to the change of pitch between the verses (sung in a lower pitch) and the chorus (higher pitch). You may want to check out and try the amazing rendition of Africa by Perpetuum Jazzile. This Slovenian choir managed to notch up 17 million views on YouTube!  Have a look and listen here to see if you’re up for the challenge!!

Are there any I missed? Post your suggestions!