The fire roared along with us as we belted out the words to Bob Dylan's 1973 hit, "Knockin' on Heaven's Door." The sun had set and as I glanced around the fire at the familiar faces of my closest friends, I realized I was witnessing a perfect memory in the making. Our cacophony of singing voices inspired me to compile 15 of the best sing-along songs for any occasion.
15. "Ballroom Blitz"
Sweet (1973)
The fast-paced tempo and skilled vocals of Brian Connolly inspire anyone to join him in screaming, "Oh yeah!"
14. "Free Fallin'"
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers (1989)
The mellow tune and memorable hook make this 1989 hit a perfect sing-along song that's recognizable from the first strum of the guitar.
13. "Livin' on a Prayer"
Bon Jovi (1986)
Piercing notes from the guitar and a masterful bass makes "Livin' on a Prayer" Bon Jovi's most popular song, echoed by the powerful chorus and use of a talk box to produce its distinct sound.
12. "Hotel California"
The Eagles (1977)
The ominous story and unique melody make the lyrics easy to remember as audiences wait for the exquisite final guitar solo.
11. "American Pie"
Don McLean (1971)
Don McLean's masterpiece is so great that you hardly realize it's more than eight minutes long. His mysterious lyrics have listeners playing out the song in their heads and wondering what really happened that day the music died?
10. "Summer of '69"
Bryan Adams (1985)
The energetic guitar and singing of Adams have every generation agreeing on the excellence of the summer of '69.
9. "What's Up?"
4
This hit by the 4
8. "For the Longest Time"
Billy Joel (1984)
The only artist to make the list twice, Billy Joel has a knack for putting out songs that are just plain catchy. The accompanying group of vocals has any group of friends working together to replicate the iconic sound of this 1984 hit.
7. "Drift Away"
Uncle Kracker & Dobie Gray (2003)
Uncle Kracker's new version with Dobie Gray provides a deep and soulful appreciation of rock 'n' roll and keeps everyone chasing the feeling of being immersed in the music.
6. "Hallelujah"
Jeff Buckley (1994)
Buckley's cover of Leonard Cohen's classic song didn't see the spotlight until 2008, 10 years after his death. A perfect blend of guitar and Buckley's soft voice make for a beautiful song and a true classic.
5. "Total Eclipse of the Heart"
Bonnie Tyler (1983)
Tyler's plea for love resonates with audiences everywhere and the powerful hook keeps your spirits lifted between the pain-filled verses.
4. "I Will Survive"
Gloria Gaynor (1982)
Lyrics that tell a story of a perfect recovery following a tough break-up lend everyone a feeling of strength and reassures them that everything is going to be alright.
3. "Sweet Caroline"
Neil Diamond (1969)
Bill Murray gives his take on Neil Diamond in his 1991 film, "What About Bob?"
"There are two types of people in this world, those who like Neil Diamond, and those who don't. My ex-wife loves him."
Well, even if you don't like Neil Diamond, you're sure to love "Sweet Caroline." Never once has this song played without a familiar fan belting out the additional lyrics.
Bum bum bum!
2. "Bohemian Rhapsody"
Queen (1975)
Freddie Mercury's magnum opus is an unforgettable classic that has everyone mimicking the iconic pitch changes. Bohemian Rhapsody goes down as the second-best song for anyone to sing along to and after 40 years, it doesn't show any sign of slowing down.
1. "Piano Man"
Billy Joel (1973)
The first single released by Joel became his signature song, distinguished by the harmonica and historic piano. "Piano Man" has captivated listeners anywhere and spans generations. Perfect for any occasion, especially ending a football practice in the weight room. The triumphant final verse and compelling chorus resonate long after the song has ended, Joel's piano truly ringing like a carnival.
