Best Karaoke Duets to Sing with Friends

There are certain nights out in San Diego where the energy feels electric—when you’re surrounded by good friends, amazing cocktails, and the pulse of the Gaslamp District just outside the door. Those are the nights when karaoke isn’t just a fun option; it’s the main event. And when it comes to sharing the spotlight, nothing hits quite like a great duet. Whether you’re harmonizing, trading verses, or just laughing through the high notes that didn’t go quite as planned, duet performances are where memories are made.

At GaslampLighter, the vibe is a blend of stylish lounge energy and spontaneous, feel-good fun—making it the perfect backdrop to belt your favorite two-person hits. Grab your singing partner, order something colorful from the bar, and pick a song that gets the whole room vibing. Below, find duet picks that span genres and moods, whether you’re going for pure nostalgia or modern-pop star flair.

Timeless Favorites Everyone Loves

Some songs just never lose their magic. They’re the kind of tunes that turn strangers into backup singers and instantly warm up the room. If you want guaranteed crowd support and a feel-good sing-along moment, these classics belong on your list.

Top Picks:

  • “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
    A powerful, soulful duet that brings major feel-good energy. Perfect for enthusiastic vocalists—or friends who simply want to smile their way through the song.

  • “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” – Elton John & Kiki Dee
    Playful, lighthearted, and upbeat. Bring your sass and enjoy the bounce of this ’70s classic.

  • “It Takes Two” – Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock
    A fast-paced old-school crowd favorite. Bring high energy and don’t be afraid to hype up the room.

Timeless duets are always a safe bet when your mission is to have fun and get the audience cheering right along with you.

Friends performing a karaoke duet at GaslampLighter in San Diego with neon lights and a cheering crowd

Modern Pop Duets for Trend-Lovers

San Diego’s nightlife crowd appreciates what’s current, and if you and your duet partner want to channel your inner chart-toppers, these fun, fresh hits will do the trick.

Top Picks:

  • “Señorita” – Shawn Mendes & Camila Cabello
    Sultry, romantic, and smooth—perfect for playful chemistry and sing-along swagger.

  • “Shallow” – Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper
    Powerhouse moment alert. If you’ve got the vocal range to soar through that big chorus, this one hits hard in all the right ways.

  • “Stay” – Rihanna & Mikky Ekko
    Emotional, dramatic, and beautiful—especially if you want to show off some vocal strength.

These tracks deliver instant cool-factor. Add a little stage presence, and you’ve got a moment everyone will remember.

Harmonic Duets for Singers Who Want to Shine

Some duets are meant to be beautiful. If you love blending voices and hitting harmonies just right, these choices create magic in a karaoke lounge.

Top Picks:

  • “Lucky” – Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat
    Soft, sweet, and breezy—it’s practically sunshine in song form.

  • “Islands in the Stream” – Dolly Parton & Kenny Rogers
    Country-pop perfection that works beautifully for both soft harmonizers and bold belters.

  • “Say Something” – A Great Big World & Christina Aguilera
    Emotional and atmospheric. Best for quieter, heartfelt moments—and audiences who appreciate vocal depth.

Choose these when you want to float the room with warmth and connection instead of punchy hype.

A couple singing a romantic karaoke duet at GaslampLighter with warm lighting and an enthusiastic audience.

Power-Ballad Moments to Own the Stage

Sometimes karaoke isn’t about being subtle. It’s about going big. These duets are made for dramatic expressions, soaring notes, and commanding the room.

Top Picks:

  • “Endless Love” – Diana Ross & Lionel Richie
    A slow-burn classic—romantic and grand.

  • “Empire State of Mind” – Jay-Z & Alicia Keys
    Switch between rap confidence and diva-level belting. This track turns heads every time.

  • “I Got You Babe” – Sonny & Cher
    Vintage, charming, and wonderfully theatrical. You can’t help but smile through it.

If you want to walk off stage feeling like a star, this playlist has your name on it.

Throwback Duets that Spark Pure Joy

Some songs instantly trigger nostalgia—and karaoke venues like GaslampLighter love those energy boosts. When the room hears that familiar beat, you’ve already won.

Top Picks:

  • “I Want It That Way” – Backstreet Boys (grab a third and make it a trio!)

  • “Love Shack” – The B-52’s

  • “Cruisin’” – Huey Lewis & Gwyneth Paltrow

These choices bring out the carefree fun factor. People will dance. People will shout the lyrics. You’ll love every second.

Excited crowd singing along during a karaoke duet night at GaslampLighter in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter.

Make the Most of Your Karaoke Night in San Diego

Part of the magic of karaoke isn’t just about which songs you choose—it’s the setting. At GaslampLighter, expect a welcoming crowd, energetic atmosphere, and staff that loves seeing guests shine.

Nestled in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, it’s the ideal spot for a night of duets, groups songs, and spontaneous sing-offs. Plan to warm up with a signature cocktail, settle into the vibrant lounge vibe, and enjoy a crowd that’s ready to cheer you on.

Whether you’re visiting San Diego for the weekend or you’re a local who knows where the best nightlife moments happen, this is where you grab a mic and make the night unforgettable.

Let the Good Times Roll at GaslampLighter 

Ready to belt out your favorite tune, sip on a handcrafted cocktail, or celebrate a milestone with style? Come see what all the buzz is about at GaslampLighter—where karaoke, cocktails, and unforgettable moments are always on the menu. 

Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, we’re here to make every visit a hit. So grab your crew, pick your song, and join us for a night that hits all the right notes. 

  • Karaoke Starts at 9 PM, Tuesday–Sunday 
  • VIP Bottle Service Available 
  • Located in Downtown San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter 

For table reservations, bottle service inquiries, or private event bookings, visit and get ready to sing, sip, and celebrate in style.