There’s a secret ingredient to an unforgettable night out, and it’s not just the drinks or the decor—it’s the music. The right playlist can turn a quiet crowd into a chorus of happy voices, a slow night into a packed dance floor, and your bar into the place where memories are made.
One of the most common questions we hear is: “What are the top songs that will energize my bar?”
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Tips for Crafting Your Perfect Bar Playlist
Know Your Crowd Every bar has its own vibe, and your playlist should reflect that. Watch how your patrons react to different songs and tweak your list accordingly.
Mix It Up Balance is key. Too much high energy and people burn out, too many slow songs and they might hit the exits. Find the sweet spot between singalongs, dance tracks, and cool-down tunes.
Keep It Fresh Even the best songs can get stale if played too often. Rotate your playlist to include both timeless classics and newer hits to keep things interesting.
Let Control Play Handle the Music
Picking the right songs takes time, but with Control Play, you don’t have to stress about it. We curate the perfect playlist for your bar—keeping it fresh, fun, and tailored to your audience. Want to take your music to the next level? Let’s talk about how we can energize your bar with a killer soundtrack.
Singalong Anthems (For That Hands-in-the-Air Moment)
1. “Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey
A bar classic. If you’ve ever been in a packed room when that first piano note drops, you know what’s coming—arms around shoulders, off-key singing, and an entire bar belting the chorus like their lives depend on it.
2. “Sweet Caroline” – Neil Diamond
So good, so good, so good! Whether it’s a regular Friday night or a championship celebration, this song guarantees crowd participation. Just cue up the chorus and let your patrons do the rest.
3. “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen
It’s part ballad, part rock opera, and all iconic. This song isn’t just played—it’s performed. Watch as your bar transforms into an impromptu Queen tribute band with every customer nailing those dramatic headbanging moments.
4. “Livin’ on a Prayer” – Bon Jovi
A song about hope, resilience, and screaming “WOAH, WE’RE HALFWAY THERE” at the top of your lungs? Say no more. Your patrons will be united in the ultimate singalong experience.
5️ “Take Me Home, Country Roads” – John Denver
Even those who swear they don’t like country music can’t resist this one. It turns any crowd into an impromptu choir.
Dancefloor Favorites (Because Who Can Resist a Good Groove?)
6. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” – Whitney Houston
You don’t need a dance floor for this one—your patrons will create their own. Whitney’s powerhouse vocals and infectious beat are enough to get even the most reluctant guests moving.
7. “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
Modern funk at its finest, this song’s groove is impossible to resist. It’s got enough energy to turn even a casual happy hour into a full-on party.
8️. “Juice” – Lizzo
A funky, feel-good banger with the kind of swagger that gets people moving without feeling forced.
9️. “No Diggity” – Blackstreet
Smooth but energetic, this ’90s R&B classic gets people grooving every time.
10. “Shut Up and Dance” – WALK THE MOON
High-energy and upbeat without being overplayed in most bars.
Rock & Alternative Hits (For That Crowd that Loves a Guitar Riff)
11. “Mr. Brightside” – The Killers
No song sends millennials (and let’s be honest, everyone else) into a frenzy quite like this one. Play it and watch as the whole room suddenly has “never felt so good.”
12. “Pour Some Sugar on Me” – Def Leppard
A little bit of rock ‘n’ roll never hurt anyone. When this guitar riff kicks in, expect head bobs, air guitars, and maybe even some dance moves straight out of the ‘80s.
13. “I Want to Break Free” by Queen
Another gem from Queen, “I Want to Break Free” is perfect for energizing your bar. Its upbeat tempo and empowering lyrics make it a great choice for lifting the mood and encouraging guests to dance. The song’s catchy rhythm and iconic music video make it a memorable addition to any playlist.
14. “Seven Nation Army” – The White Stripes
That unmistakable bassline. The slow build. The inevitable crowd chants. This stadium anthem translates perfectly into a high-energy bar hit.
15. “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” – Jet
Punchy and energetic, this song is a great mid-set boost.
Unexpected Gems (For a Fresh Take on Bar Energy)
16 “Toxic” – Britney Spears
Surprisingly edgy and packed with attitude, this pop classic always gets people hyped. It’s unexpected but guaranteed to spark excitement.
17. “American Boy” – Estelle ft. Kanye West
A laid-back bop with an irresistible beat, perfect for keeping the vibe lively.
18. “Come and Get Your Love” – Redbone
A funky, feel-good song that gets people bobbing along without trying too hard. It’s also quite popular on TikTok
19. “Shotgun” – George Ezra
This one’s all about carefree, feel-good vibes. The catchy melody and singalong chorus make it a perfect pick for keeping the energy high without overwhelming the room.
20. “Friends in Low Places” – Garth Brooks
For those nights when the crowd is feeling extra social, this country classic brings everyone together. It’s the kind of song that turns strangers into drinking buddies by the last verse.
