The Best Karaoke Playlists for Duets
Karaoke nights are a delightful way to bond with friends and showcase your vocal prowess—or just have a blast singing your heart out. When it comes to duets, the experience can be even more electrifying as you harmonize and vibe with a singing partner. Crafting the best karaoke playlist for duets requires a mix of timeless classics and contemporary hits to please every duo. Here’s a lineup of ten karaoke duets that are guaranteed to bring down the house.
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“Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” by Elton John and Kiki Dee This upbeat, poppy song is a mainstay on karaoke playlists. Its playful banter and catchy chorus make it a fantastic choice for friends or couples who want to start their karaoke session on a high note. The simple melody and infectious rhythm ensure that even karaoke beginners can join in the fun.
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“Islands in the Stream” by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton This country-pop crossover hit from 1983 remains one of the greatest duets ever recorded. It’s perfect for karaoke with its easy-to-follow melody and memorable lyrics that tell a story of enduring love and partnership.
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“Under Pressure” by Queen and David Bowie If you’re looking to show off your vocal range and don’t shy away from a challenge, this rock duet is for you. It requires precision and power, as well as a bit of rap timing. Plus, the iconic bass line is instantly recognizable, setting the stage for a compelling performance.
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“A Whole New World” from Disney’s Aladdin A magical choice for Disney fans, this ballad invites singers to take on the roles of Aladdin and Jasmine. It’s a sweet, melodious song that allows for expressive singing and a lot of emotional interpretation. It’s as close as you can get to a magic carpet ride in a karaoke bar.
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“Empire State of Mind (Part II)” by Alicia Keys and Jay-Z Ideal for a pair that includes a soulful singer and a smooth rapper, this anthem to New York City has a powerful chorus and verses that require a bit of swagger. It’s a modern classic that resonates with urbanites and dreamers alike.
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“Endless Love” by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross As one of the most covered duets in history, “Endless Love” is a karaoke favorite for its heartfelt lyrics and sweeping melody. It’s a song that demands chemistry between the singers, making it a popular choice for couples.
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“Shallow” from A Star is Born by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper This powerful, emotionally charged ballad from the latest “A Star is Born” movie is a showstopper. It allows both singers to demonstrate range and emotional depth, and the soaring chorus is an unforgettable karaoke moment.
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“Cruisin’” by Huey Lewis and Gwyneth Paltrow This smooth, easy-listening song is perfect for a relaxed karaoke session. Its gentle melody and leisurely pace make it a great choice for duet partners who want to enjoy the moment without worrying about tricky vocals.
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“Like I’m Gonna Lose You” by Meghan Trainor and John Legend A more recent hit, this duet is a beautiful love song with a soulful feel. The harmony between the voices is key here, and the lyrics are poignant and touching—perfect for friends or couples who want to share a meaningful moment on stage.
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“Summer Nights” from Grease No karaoke duet list would be complete without this classic from the musical “Grease.” It’s an energetic song that encourages playful interaction between the singers, complete with character voices and a lot of room for acting out the lyrics.
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“Picture” by Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow This song tells a story of love and longing, and it’s perfect for a male/female duo looking to channel some country rock vibes. The call-and-response format makes it a dynamic choice for karaoke.
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“Lucky” by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat A light and breezy tune that captures the joy of falling in love with your best friend. Its laid-back vibe is sure to win over the crowd.
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“California Dreamin’” by The Mamas & The Papas Though not a traditional duet, this song has harmonies that are perfect for a group of four, with the male and female parts intertwining beautifully.
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“You’re the One That I Want” from Grease Another classic from “Grease,” this lively song has a rock-and-roll beat and is a favorite for its energetic and flirtatious back-and-forth between the singers.
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“Beauty and the Beast” from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast This timeless Disney song is ideal for a karaoke night, with its sweeping orchestral melody and the opportunity for singers to portray the characters.
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“Dilemma” by Nelly and Kelly Rowland A smooth R&B track with a catchy hook, it’s perfect for duets who can handle rapping and singing with equal flair.
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“I Got You Babe” by Sonny & Cher This 1960s hit is still a beloved choice for its simple melody and the endearing exchange between partners, making it perfect for couples.
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“Jackson” by Johnny Cash and June Carter A country staple, this song has a rapid-fire lyrical exchange that’s sure to entertain the crowd and the singers alike.
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“Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole A beautiful ballad that showcases smooth and soulful vocals, this father-daughter duet is both heartwarming and a pleasure to sing.
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“Promiscuous” by Nelly Furtado and Timbaland With its flirty lyrics and R&B rhythm, this song is a great choice for two friends ready to put on a show with a modern pop duet.
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“Somethin’ Stupid” by Frank and Nancy Sinatra This song has a swingy, retro vibe that’s ideal for a lounge-style karaoke performance, offering a touch of class and nostalgia.
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“Say Something” by A Great Big World and Christina Aguilera A hauntingly beautiful ballad with powerful emotional resonance, it allows both singers to showcase their vocal control and emotional depth.
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“The Time of My Life” from Dirty Dancing An iconic song from an iconic movie, it’s an uplifting number that builds to a rousing finale, perfect for duet partners who love to engage with the audience.
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“Need You Now” by Lady Antebellum A country song with crossover appeal, this song’s lyrics about longing and connection resonate deeply, making it a karaoke favorite.
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“Almost Paradise” by Mike Reno and Ann Wilson From the soundtrack of “Footloose,” this power ballad is perfect for duet partners who want to demonstrate their vocal prowess.
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“Home” by Michael Bublé and Blake Shelton The duet version of this song blends country and pop for a rich vocal experience. Its soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a great slow-down song for the night.
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“Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” by Stevie Nicks and Tom Petty For those looking to bring a little rock edge to their performance, this song offers gritty vocals and a chance to channel two rock legends.
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“Rewrite the Stars” from The Greatest Showman This modern musical hit provides a stirring duet with a pop-opera feel, perfect for singers who can handle a dramatic narrative.
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“Ebony and Ivory” by Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder A song that promotes harmony in diversity, it’s a classic choice with a feel-good message and a melody that’s easy to follow.
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“Hungry Eyes” by Eric Carmen Another gem from the “Dirty Dancing” soundtrack, this song, while originally a solo, can be beautifully adapted into a duet, inviting a tender interplay between singers.
These songs offer a range of genres and difficulties, ensuring that there’s something for everyone on karaoke night. When building your playlist, consider the vocal abilities and preferences of your duet pairs, and above all, remember that karaoke is about having fun and creating joyful memories!