We are very busy karaoke dj’s in the NYC , Westchester Tri-state area and so far these are the most poplar songs picked by kids at karaoke birthday parties.
1. “Golden” k-pop Demon Hunters
Thanks to the massive popularity of Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba), kids aren’t just watching the show—they’re belt-singing the Japanese lyrics (or the English covers) with intense passion.
- Why kids love it: It makes them feel like they’re literally harnessing breathing techniques to fight demons.
2. “Espresso” – Sabrina Carpenter (KIDZ BOP Version)
In 2026, the 8-to-11-year-olds are all about the “pop princess” energy. This track is a dance-floor magnet. While the original is a radio staple, the KIDZ BOP version ensures the lyrics stay party-appropriate for the younger set.
- Why kids love it: It’s catchy, upbeat, and perfect for showing off those TikTok-inspired dance moves.
3. “How It’s Done” – HUNTR/X (K-Pop Demon Hunters)
This is the breakout hit from the K-Pop Demon Hunters animated universe. It blends the high-stakes action of monster hunting with the polished, synchronized energy of K-Pop.
- Why kids love it: It’s a group-song favorite. Kids love to “cast” themselves as different band members and perform the choreography while they sing.
4. “Party in the USA”-Miley Cyrus
Even years after the songs release, this song remains a karaoke legend for kids of all ages.
- Why kids love it: It’s fun to sing in a group of friends with the catchiest melody maybe ever.
5. “Soda Pop” k pop
The anime wave is unstoppable. Soda Pop has become a global phenomenon, often appearing at the top of karaoke charts. Its fast-paced tempo and “kawaii” yet powerful vocals make it a challenge that older kids (9–11) love to tackle.
- Why kids love it: The sheer speed of the song is a “flex” if they can get the timing right.
6. “Shake It Off” – Taylor Swift
Some things never go out of style. Taylor Swift is the reigning queen of kid karaoke, and “Shake It Off” is the ultimate “safe” bet that every single child at the party will know.
- Why kids love it: It’s pure, unadulterated fun with zero pressure to be a “good” singer.
7. “Beautiful Things” – Benson Boone
For the older end of the 5–11 spectrum, this power ballad is a huge favorite. It allows for that big, “belting” moment in the chorus that feels very dramatic and cathartic.
- Why kids love it: It feels a bit more “grown-up” and lets them show off their vocal range.
8. “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” – Encanto
Disney’s grip on karaoke remains firm. This song is the ultimate ensemble piece. If you have a group of kids who are a bit shy, this is the one that gets them to stand up together because everyone has a “part.”
- Why kids love it: The storytelling and the overlapping “madness” of the finale are always a hit.
9. “Dance Monkey” – Tones and I
Despite being a few years old, this song’s unique vocal style is still a hit with kids who like to make funny voices. It’s high-pitched, bouncy, and impossible not to jump around to.
- Why kids love it: It’s easy to mimic the distinctive “bratty” vocal tone, which kids find hilarious.
10. “APT.” – Rosé & Bruno Mars
The newest entry to the “Party Essential” list. The repetitive, chant-like chorus (“Ap-peu-teu!”) is perfect for kids who might not know all the verses but want to scream-sing the main hook.
Why kids love it: It’s a rhythmic game in song form—fast, modern, and very cool.
11. “HOT TO GO!” – Chappell Roan (KIDZ BOP Version)
In 2026, the cheerleading-style energy of this track has made it a massive favorite for the 8-to-11-year-olds. It’s essentially the modern “Y.M.C.A.” because it comes with built-in arm movements for the chorus.
- Why kids love it: It’s impossible not to spell out the letters with your hands, making it more of a group activity than just a song.
12. “What It Sounds Like” – K-Pop Demon Hunters
We can’t talk about demon hunters without mentioning this high-energy track from the Netflix movie. It’s a mix of rock and electronic pop that makes every kid feel like they’re suiting up for battle.
- Why kids love it: The “drop” in the chorus is massive, perfect for those who like to jump around.
13. “Guns and Ships” from Hamilton
The Hamilton soundtrack offers endless karaoke bangerz. this is one of them!
- Why kids love it: For theater kids you can really belt this one!
14. “Pink Pony Club” – KIDZ BOP Kids
Another high-glamour track that’s taken over the charts. The kid-friendly version keeps the “dancing at the club” vibes safe and celebratory, focusing on being yourself and finding your community.
- Why kids love it: It’s a big, theatrical “I’m a star” moment for kids who love a bit of sparkle.
15. “Firework”-Katy Perry
Yes it came out back in the day but it is ALWAYS a hit at a kids karaoke party.
- Why kids love it: The message, melody and the energy of the song makes for a can’t miss selection!
16. “Zero to Hero” – Benee (A Minecraft Movie)
With the Minecraft movie soundtrack dominating the playlists of every 7-to-10-year-old, this cover of the Hercules classic has become the new “hero song” for the gaming generation.
- Why kids love it: It bridges the gap between their favorite game and a classic Disney vibe.
17. “Can’t stop the feeling” Justin Timberlake -Trolls the movie
This JT song can always be heard at a kids karaoke party even now in 2026.. It’s sunshine in a bottle, and usually the song that gets played when everyone is getting their second wind after a cake break.
- Why kids love it: It’s incredibly easy to sing even if you’re out of breath from running around.
18. “Zoo” – Shakira (Zootopia 2)
The 2025 release of Zootopia 2 brought Shakira back to the kids’ charts with another global banger. It has that signature Latin-pop rhythm that gets even the shyest kids tapping their feet.
- Why kids love it: The animal themes and high-energy beat make it a “dance-first” karaoke choice.
19. “Let it go” Frozen Soundtrack
Yes, You’ve heard it a thousand times but it’s a great ice breaker and still finding it’s ways to many kids karaoke parties!
- Why kids love it: They know this like the back of their hand and is a great warm up for songs to come!
20. “Pokémon Theme” (Gotta Catch ‘Em All!)
Closing out the list with a legend. No matter the year, no matter the generation, every kid from age 5 to 11 knows the words to the original Pokémon theme. It is the ultimate “everyone grab a mic” finale.
- Why kids love it: It’s pure, loud, communal shouting-at-the-top-of-your-lungs fun.
Honorable mentions go to Hamilton soundtrack, Olivia Dean, The Beatles, Lady gaga and much more…..Contact Dave Swirsky for more information on our kids karaoke birthday parties in NYC, Westchester, NJ, Connecticut and throughout the Northeast US!!