6 Popular Songs You Hear At Every Bar

Ah, the classic bar song. Nothing makes your night out better than the soundtrack of tunes that seems to play on every bar jukebox; they get people in a good mood, relaxing and singing along. Sure, some random ballads find their way into the rotation, but there are a few tried-and-true tunes that you always hear, and you know you're at a great bar when you hear them.

What makes a great bar song? Well, there's nothing scientific about it, but it may be fun or relatable lyrics plus a great melody over an easily sing-able chorus, and pretty soon even that biker seated at the end of the bar is joining in on "Sweet Caroline." Whatever the reason, it's hard to find someone who hates a classic bar song, especially after a drink or two.

Whether you took over a table with friends or are seated at the bar alone, here are the songs that you'll likely hear, smile, and end up singing right along with that biker dude.

Brown Eyed Girl

There's something so sweet about this tune that everyone can relate to, remembering past loves and lost innocence. Well, that and whoever isn't singing or at least humming along with the "Sha la la la la la la la la la dee dah" part hasn't drunk enough and/or doesn't have a soul.

Don't Stop Believin'

This ballad doubles as a top karaoke song probably because the lyrics, which are both aspirational ("Don't stop believin')" and seems nonsensical ("Streetlight, people"...um, what?) seem to make more sense as you keep drinking. And don't count out the epic instrumentals to boot.

Jesse's Girl

Oftentimes, relationship troubles have driven us to drown our sorrows at the local pub, doubly so if your unrequited love is your friend's lady. The upbeat melody of "Jesse's Girl" does leave you feeling optimistic, but the lyrics express your pain.

Pour Some Sugar on Me

This rock ballad has a mighty heavy guitar riff and enough sexual innuendo to make your mother blush. Though there is still a hot debate as to what Def Leppard meant by "sugar," it's safe to say they're not singing about baking.

Sweet Home Alabama

You don't have to be from Alabama to love this song, and though there are a few of us who love Neil Young, you can't deny the amazing anthem that sprung from the feud. Also, the sing-a-long rating is a solid 10. 

Semi-Charmed Kind of Life

Did you have a rough day/week/month/life? That's okay, Third Eye Blind feels you with this number, but reminds you to look at the silver lining and stay upbeat with lyrics like "I believe in the sand beneath my toes/The beach gives a feeling, an earthy feeling/I believe in the faith that grows/And the four right chords can make me cry" which is easy given its pop-like performance. Apparently this song is about crystal meth addiction, but we'll just let that fun fact go.