One-Word Rock Songs From 1979 That Were Practically Made for Karaoke

If you find yourself scanning your apartment, dorm, house, office, or wherever you are while trying to decide how to spend your evening, here’s an idea—why not enjoy a karaoke session? Invite some friends and have fun together. After all, what’s the worst that could happen?

To help you out, here are three classic rock tracks that are perfect for karaoke. If you’re heading to a karaoke bar and can’t decide what to sing, these one-word song titles from 1979 are great crowd-pleasers and easy picks for the stage.

“Cars” by Gary Numan from The Pleasure Principle (1979)
Choosing this song at karaoke can instantly make you stand out. Certain tracks just seem destined for karaoke, and late ‘70s or early ‘80s synth-heavy songs are among the best choices. “Cars” by Gary Numan fits perfectly—it’s catchy, memorable, and relatable. Most people have experienced driving while listening to quirky or fun music, which makes it an enjoyable and familiar karaoke selection.

“Refugee” by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers from Damn The Torpedoes (1979)
When thinking about Tom Petty’s greatest songs, “Refugee” might not always be the first one that comes to mind, but it’s undeniably powerful. The track is engaging, and its chorus is unforgettable even after a single listen. Petty delivers the vocals with passion and intensity, while the band provides a strong, energetic backdrop that builds excitement throughout the song.

“Atomic” by Blondie from Eat To The Beat (1979)
Music from the New York-based band Blondie is almost always a safe choice. The group had a talent for creating hit songs, and lead singer Debbie Harry had an undeniable stage presence. Her vocals carried emotional weight, and the band’s innovative sound pushed musical boundaries. “Atomic” is another standout example—a vibrant, energetic track that delivers a rush of excitement from start to finish.