The Best Bar Songs & Playlists to Consider

The music you choose for your bar can make or break your bar’s atmosphere and your customers’ experiences. But it’s not just the mood music is influencing. Music has the power to directly impact your bottom line. 

A report from Gant found that customers stayed 42% longer in sales environments where music was playing and if music was a good brand fit, sales increased by 37%.

So how do you choose what to play overhead?

Pandora CloudCover’s expert musicologists listen to hours and hours of music to choose the perfect tracks for every business. They know best that not every bar should stream the same sounds. From rowdy sports bars to swanky cocktail bars, our musicologists curate the perfect music for every bar’s atmosphere. 

“From the casual and relaxed familiarity of your favorite neighborhood dive bar to the elevated exclusivity and trendiness of a hot rooftop nightclub, our job is to connect you with the perfect mix for your bar’s brand identity and desired ambiance.”

Not All Songs Work For Every Type of Bar

Before we dive in, it’s important for bar owners, managers, and decision-makers to know not all bar songs will have the same impact in every bar setting. 

Your client base, along with your unique brand, will heavily influence the best music mix for your business.

“These top bar playlists aren’t one-size-fits-all. Just as your customers have unique tastes in beverages, your bar should add its own flavor to these mixes, too.”
- Nate, Pandora CloudCover Musicologist

Top Songs & Playlists for Hotel Bars

Hotel bars cater to a diverse clientele, from business travelers to vacationers. While their atmosphere varies depending on the hotel’s branding, hotel bars typically aim for a refined, welcoming atmosphere that encourages conversation and relaxation. The music should be engaging enough to add character but never intrusive.

Ideal Music Characteristics for a Hotel Bar

• Genre: Jazzy neo-soul, soft lounge, chill electronic, smooth R&B, lo-fi hip-hop, acoustic pop
• Volume: Moderate to low — music should enhance the atmosphere without overpowering conversations
• Tempo: Slow to mid-tempo (typically 70-110 BPM) to create a relaxed and unhurried feel

Top 10 Hotel Bar Songs

1. LANY – “dancing in the kitchen”
2. Modest Mouse – “Float On”
3. Thievery Corporation – “All That We Perceive”
4. Zero 7 – “In The Waiting Line”
5. DOPE LEMON – “Rose Pink Cadillac”
6. Delirium – “Silence”
7. Feist – “One Evening”
8. LCD Soundsystem – “oh baby”
9. Frou Frou – “Let Go”
10. Khruangbin – “White Gloves”

Top Songs & Playlists for Sports Bars

Sports bars are energetic and high-energy, designed for socializing, cheering on teams, and enjoying food and drinks in a lively setting. They often feature multiple TV screens broadcasting live games, the sounds of cheering fans. Sports bars thrive on excitement, and the music you play should reflect that.

Ideal Music Characteristics for a Sports Bar

• Genre: Classic rock, modern rock, high-energy pop, hip-hop, country rock, alternative, upbeat EDM
• Volume: Medium to high — loud enough to keep energy levels up without overpowering game commentary
• Tempo: Fast to mid-tempo (typically 100-140 BPM) to match the excitement of the environment

Top 10 Sports Bar Songs

1. Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers – “American Girl”
2. Duran Duran – “Hungry Like The Wolf”
3. Joel Corry & MNEK – “Head & Heart”
4. Kendrick Lamar – “Not Like Us”
5. Bastille – “Pompeii”
6. Aerosmith – “Walk This Way”
7. Bon Jovi – “You Give Love a Bad Name”
8. Linkin Park – “Numb”
9. The Weeknd – “Can’t Feel My Face”
10. Third Eye Blind – “Semi-Charmed Life”

Top Songs & Playlists for Dive Bars

Dive bars are no-frills, unpretentious watering holes that attract loyal locals looking for cheap drinks, a laid-back atmosphere, and a sense of community. Dive bars are often gritty and casual, with dim lighting, neon signs, and well-worn furniture. 

The goal of dive bar music is to create a soundtrack that feels effortlessly cool, making patrons feel at home and want to stay for "just one more round."

Ideal Music Characteristics for a Dive Bar

• Genre: Classic rock, blues, punk, outlaw country, grunge, indie rock, old-school hip-hop
• Volume: Moderate — loud enough to set the mood without overpowering conversations
  Tempo: Mid to slow-tempo (typically 80-120 BPM), with some upbeat songs to keep the energy flowing

Top 10 Dive Bar Songs

1. AC/DC – “Rock & Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution”
2. Eagles – “Take It Easy”
3. Wilco – “Heavy Metal Drummer”
4. Blues Traveler – “Hook”
5. Hootie & The Blowfish – “Let Her Cry”
6. Puddle of Mudd – “Blurry”
7. Merle Haggard – “Lonesome Fugitive”
8. The Kooks – “Naive”
9. Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers – “Breakdown”
10. Credence Clearwater Revival – “Run Through The Jungle”

Top Songs & Playlists for College Bars

College bars are high-energy, social hotspots for young adults to gather, drink, dance, and celebrate. The vibes are loud, lively, and sometimes chaotic, with an emphasis on affordability and fun. Expect large crowds, themed drink specials, and a constantly changing energy depending on the night of the week. 

Your playlist should feel like the ultimate pregame and party soundtrack, keeping energy levels high from open to close.

Ideal Music Characteristics for a College Bar

• Genre: Top 40, hip-hop, EDM, pop-punk, throwback hits (2000s/2010s), reggaeton
• Volume: High—music should be a focal point, driving the energy and keeping the party alive
• Tempo: Fast to mid-tempo (typically 110-150 BPM) to maintain an upbeat, dance-friendly atmosphere

Top 10 College Bar Songs

1. Daft Punk – “One More Time”
2. Chappell Roan – “Good Luck, Babe!”
3. Shaboozey – “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
4. Morgan Wallen – “Last Night"
5. Avicii – “Wake Me Up”
6. Clean Bandit – “Rather Be”
7. Dua Lipa – “Levitating”
8. Fleetwood Mac – “Everywhere”
9. T-Pain – “Buy U a Drank” (Shawty Snappin’)
10. Coldplay – “Sky Full of Stars”

Top Songs & Playlists for Country Bars

Country bars are typically lively, yet welcoming. They aim to blend Southern charm with a strong sense of community. Whether it's a honky-tonk dance hall or a rustic saloon, they’re often filled with cowboy boots, line dancing, and a mix of traditional and contemporary country music. Many country bars also feature live bands, mechanical bulls, and large dance floors.

Ideal Music Characteristics for a Country Bar

• Genre: Country (classic, modern, outlaw, country rock), Southern rock, bluegrass, Americana
• Volume: Moderate to high — loud enough for an energetic atmosphere but not overpowering conversation and dancing
• Tempo: Mid-to-fast tempo (typically 90-140 BPM) to accommodate line dancing, two-stepping, and upbeat socializing

Top 10 Country Bar Songs

1. John Prine – “Angel From Montgomery”
2. Alison Krauss – “Oh, Atlanta”
3. Willie Nelson – “On the Road Again”
4. Rhonda Vincent & The Rage – “Kentucky Borderline”
5. Chris Stapleton – “Tennessee Whiskey”
6. Grateful Dead – “Know You Rider”
7. Patsy Cline – “Crazy”
8. Dolly Parton – “Jolene”
9. The Osborne Brothers – “Rocky Top”
10. Dan Tyminski – “Wheels”

Top Songs & Playlists for Irish Bars

Irish bars are warm, lively gathering places. The focus is on good conversation, hearty drinks, and cultural tradition. 

Whether you operate a cozy pub with dark wood interiors or a rowdy spot with Guinness flowing freely, your background music should be welcoming, spirited, and encourage interaction — like singing an old folk tune with strangers or swaying to a heartfelt ballad.

Ideal Music Characteristics for an Irish Bar

• Genre: Traditional Irish folk, Celtic rock, classic rock, pub singalongs, indie folk
• Volume: Moderate — loud enough to energize the crowd but still allowing for friendly conversation
• Tempo: Mid-to-fast tempo (typically 90-140 BPM), with slower ballads to complement for storytelling moments

Top 10 Irish Bar Songs

1. The Dubliners – “Whiskey in the Jar”
2. Dropkick Murphys – “Tessie”
3. The Corrs – “Breathless”
4. Cranberries – “Linger”
5. Flogging Molly – “Drunken Lullabies”
6. U2 – “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For”
7. Dexys Midnight Runners – “Come On Eileen”
8. Neil Diamond – “Sweet Caroline”
9. Guy Clark – “Dublin Blues”
10. Sinéad O’Connor – “The Emperor’s New Clothes”

Top Songs & Playlists for Cocktail Bars

Cocktail bars thrive on ambiance, and the music should be as carefully curated as the drinks. Typically stylish, upscale, intimate spaces, cocktail bars offer a refined, relaxed ambiance. 

If you operate a sleek modern lounge, a speakeasy with vintage charm, or a rooftop bar with a view, the background music you play should suit an environment where patrons can sip, chat, and savor the experience without distraction.

Ideal Music Characteristics for a Cocktail Bar

• Genre: Jazz, bossa nova, lo-fi, deep house, lounge, neo-soul, chill electronic
• Volume: Low to moderate — set the mood without overpowering conversation
• Tempo: Slow to mid-tempo (typically 70-110 BPM) to create a smooth and sophisticated vibe

Top 10 Cocktail Bar Songs

1. Otis Redding – “(Sittin’ On) the Dock of the Bay
2. BØRNS – “Electric Love”
3. Nightmares on Wax – “You Wish”
4. Lianne La Havas – “Green & Gold”
5. Erykah Badu – “On & On”
6. Jose James – “Come to My Door”
7. Daft Punk – “Fragments of Time (feat. Todd Edwards”
8. Sade – “No Ordinary Love”
9. Al Green – “Let’s Stay Together”
10. D’Angelo – “Lady”

Top Songs & Playlists for Live Music Bars

Live music bars are vibrant, energetic venues where the music takes center stage. The atmosphere varies depending on the type of acts performing — ranging everything from intimate acoustic sets to full-blown rock performances. These bars attract music enthusiasts looking to experience artists up close while enjoying drinks in a dynamic social setting.

Ideal Music Characteristics for a Live Music Bar

• Genre: Varies by venue—blues, rock, jazz, indie, folk, funk, country, punk, or singer-songwriter sets
• Volume: Medium to high — music is the main attraction, so background music levels will depend on the performance 
• Tempo: Varies — from slow, soulful ballads to high-energy rock

Top 10 Live Music Songs

With live music comes a wide variety of songs and sounds. These venues tend to curate their own music based on the current night’s performer. 

For help choosing music prior to or in between performances, lean on the sound engineer for the night to pick music based on that night’s entertainment.

More Insights for Live Music Bars

Live music bars are unique thanks to the addition of a real-time, raw performance to the atmosphere. 82% feel a more enjoyable experience when live music is playing. 

Regardless of the performance’s genre, the music should capture attention and create a memorable experience for patrons. Why? Because not only does live music at bars enhance customer satisfaction, it also boosts revenue.

• 72% of individuals would grab a drink at a bar if there was a 40-minute wait and live music was playing
• 68% would pay for a 2-drink minimum if there was live music playing
• 58% would pay a cover charge to enter for live music

Adding live music can transform a bar into a destination, increase dwell time, fuel drink sales, and improve overall profitability.

Top Songs & Playlists for Karaoke Bars

At karaoke bars, the spotlight isn’t just on the music, it’s on the duets. They’re upbeat, engaging venues where the atmosphere is electric and playful. Bright lights, lively crowds, and a high-energy vibe define the experience, making it a go-to spot for group outings, celebrations, and spontaneous dates.

The key is to create an inclusive, high-energy environment where everyone from serious singers to first-timers feels comfortable grabbing the mic. In addition to the karaoke song catalog, karaoke bars thrive on familiar, crowd-pleasing background music that also encourages participation. 

Ideal Music Characteristics for a Karaoke Bar

• Genre: Pop, rock, hip-hop, country, R&B, classic anthems, throwback hits, power ballads
• Volume: High — music needs to energize the room and support vocal performances
• Tempo: Varies — fast, energetic songs for party moments (100-150 BPM) and slower ballads for emotional performances (60-90 BPM)

Top 10 Karaoke Bar Songs

1. Aerosmith – “Dream On”
2. Katy Perry – “Firework”
3. Maroon 5 – “Moves Like Jagger”
4. Bon Jovi – “Livin’ On a Prayer”
5. The Killers – “Mr. Brightside”
6. Whitney Houston – “I Will Always Love You”
7. Justin Timberlake – “Rock Your Body”
8. Britney Spears – “...Baby One More Time”
9. Tom Petty – “Free Fallin’”
10. Lynyrd Skynyrd – “Sweet Home Alabama”

Top Songs & Playlists for Wine Bars

Wine bars necessitate an intimate, cozy, and refined atmosphere often featuring dim lighting, soft seating, and a curated selection of wines from around the world. Whether you run a rustic European-inspired wine bar or a chic lounge, wine bars focus on tasting experiences, conversation, and a slower, more intentional pace of interaction.

Ideal Music Characteristics for a Wine Bar

• Genre: Jazz, bossa nova, indie folk, acoustic, soft lounge, chill instrumental
• Volume: Low to moderate — music should enhance the ambiance without distracting from conversation
• Tempo: Slow to mid-tempo (typically 60-110 BPM) to create a laid-back, refined mood

Top 10 Wine Bar Songs

1. RÜFÜS DU SOL – “Tell Me”
2. Nara Leão – “Meditacao”
3. Y.V.E. 48 – “Wicked Game”
4. Julianna Raye – “Dewberry Wine”
5. Shallou – “Gone”
6. Forester & Kidnap – “To Feel Alive”
7. Two Lanes & Kwesi – “Another Time”
8. sød ven – “Hollow”
9. Andy Grammer – “Fresh Eyes”
10. Elujay & HXNS – “1080p”  

List of The Top 100 Bar Songs 

No matter the type of bar, music is the heartbeat of the atmosphere. It sets the tone for the day or night, and it keeps patrons engaged whether they’re sipping craft cocktails, singing karaoke classics, or cheering on their favorite sports team. 

Our musicologists at Pandora CloudCover carefully chose the following 100 essential bar songs to fit a wide range of establishments. 

From classic rock anthems to smooth jazz standards, from high-energy pop hits to soulful singalongs, these tracks transcend genres and bar types. 

Let’s dive into the ultimate bar playlist — songs that will make every moment at your bar unforgettable.

1. Guns N’ Roses – “Welcome To The Jungle”
2. The Black Jets – “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll”
3. Rick Springfield – “Jessie’s Girl”
4. Black Eyed Peas – “Let’s Get it Started”
5. Neil Diamond – “Sweet Caroline”
6. Journey – “Any Way You Want It”
7. Lynyrd Skynyrd – “Free Bird”
8. Miley Cyrus – “Party in the USA”
9. Queen – “We Are The Champions”
10. Cyndi Lauper – “Girls Just Want to Have Fun”
11. Pat Benatar – “Hit Me With Your Best Shot”
12. Bon Jovi – “Livin’ On A Prayer”
13. The Outfield – “Your Love”
14. Billy Joel – “Piano Man”
15. Jay-Z & Alicia Keys – “Empire State Of Mind”
16. Michael Jackson – “Billie Jean”
17. Counting Crows – “Mr. Jones”
18. Paul Simon – “You Can Call Me Al”
19. Eagles – “Hotel California”
20. AC/DC – “You Shook Me All Night Long”
21. Maroon 5 – “She Will Be Loved”
22. B.o.B. & Hayley Williams – “Airplanes”
23. Coldplay – “Viva La Vida”
24. Beyoncé – “Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It”
25. King of Leon – “Use Somebody”
26. Aerosmith – “Sweet Emotion”
27. Lady Gaga – “Just Dance”
28. The Who – “Baba O’Riley”
29. USHER, Lil Jon, Ludacris – “Yeah!”
30. Bruce Springsteen – “Dancing in the Dark”
31. Van Morrison – “Brown Eyed Girl”
32. John Denver – “Take Me Home, Country Roads”
33. Flo Rida & T-Pain – “Low”
34. Kid Rock – “All Summer Long”
35. Tears For Fears – “Shout”
36. Chappell Roan – “Good Luck, Babe!”
37. Dierks Bentley – “Drunk On A Plane”
38. Shaboozey – “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
39. Morgan Wallen – “Last Night"
40. Avicii – “Wake Me Up”
41. Darius Rucker – “Wagon Wheel”
42. Pete Townshend – “Let My Love Open The Door”
43. Chris Stapleton – “Tennessee Whiskey”
44. Elton John – “Tiny Dancer”
45. Garth Brooks – “Friends in Low Places”
46. Jimmy Buffet – “Margaritaville”
47. Derek & the Dominos – “Layla”
48. Toby Keith & Willie Nelson – “Beer For My Horses”
49. Semisonic – “Closing Time”
50. Three Dog Night – “Never Been To Spain”
51. Nirvana – “Heart-Shaped Box”
52. Sheryl Crow – “Soak Up The Sun”
53. Radiohead – “Creep”
54. Spin Doctors – “Two Princes”
55. Smash Mouth – “All Star”
56. Zac Brown Band – “Chicken Fried”
57. Beck – “Loser”
58. Counting Crows – “Accidentally In Love”
59. Toto – “Africa”
60. Jordan Davis – “Almost Maybes”
61. 311 – “Amber”
62. Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers – “American Girl”
63. Florida Georgia Line – “Anything Goes”
64. Credence Clearwater Revival – “Bad Moon Rising”
65. The Script – “Breakeven”
66. Bob Marley – “Buffalo Soldier”
67. The Chainsmokers & Bebe Rexha – “Call You Mine”
68. Justin Timberlake – “Can’t Stop The Feelin’”
69. Fall Out Boy – “Centuries”
70. Sia – “Cheap Thrills’
71. The 1975 – “Chocolate”
72. Dexy’s Midnight Runners – “Come On Eileen”
73. Switchfoot – “Dare You To Move”
74. Rihanna – “Diamonds”
75. Disclosure & Sam Smith – “Latch”
76. Florence & The Machine – “Dog Days Are Over”
77. The Maine – “Don’t Come Down”
78. Simple Minds – “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”
79. Talking Heads – “Psycho Killer”
80. Human League – “Don’t You Want Me”
81. Smallpools – “Dreaming”
82. benny blanco, Halsey, Khalid – “eastside”
83. Mariah Carey – “Emotions”
84. Vertical Horizon – “Everything You Want”
85. Portugal The Man – “Feel It Still”
86. Andy Grammer – “Fine By Me”
87. The Cure – “Friday I’m In Love”
88. Sheppard – “Geronimo”
89. Kool & The Gang – “Get Down On It”
90. Walk the Moon – “Shut Up and Dance”
91. Aloe Blacc – “Hold On Tight”
92. Boz Scaggs – “Lido Shuffle”
93. Zara Larsson – “Lush Life”
94. Justin Timberlake – “Mirrors”
95. Eric Church – “Drink In My Hand”
96. The Chicks – “Wide Open Spaces”
97. Elvis Costello – “Alison”
98. Stevie Wonder – “Isn’t She Lovely”
99. Boston – “More Than A Feeling”
100. Temptations – “My Girl”

How Pandora CloudCover Can Help Your Bar

Still not sure where to start? Pandora CloudCover has music solutions for bars of all types and sizes. 

Our pre-made bar stations are plug and play. All you have to do is sign up and start streaming. Try it free for 14 days. Terms and conditions apply. 

Or, our musicologists are happy to curate sounds and songs specifically for your brand. Particularly if you have multiple locations or are looking for a very specific brand fit, contact us for a custom consultation and quote. 

Let Pandora CloudCover handle everything from start to finish, so you can focus on your customers and bar while we maximize the experience through music. Don’t forget, we cover everything from a licensing and legal perspective as well, so you stay safe and compliant.

References

Value of Music Research. (July 2022). BMI. 
78% of small-to-midsize businesses in the US currently misuse personal streaming accounts to play music to their customers. It’s costing the music industry $1.38 billion per year. (February 2024). Music Business Worldwide.
Styles of background music and consumption in a bar: An empirical evaluation. (December 2006). Science Direct.
The Influence Of Music On Consumer Behavior. (2012). Production and Operations Management Society. 
The Subliminal Influence of Ambient Music on Shoppers. Psychologist Word. 
The Combined Effect of Color and Music on Customer Satisfaction in Hotel Bars. (November 2009). Taylor and Francis Online.
Does Playing Music Increase Sales? The Power of Music in Retail Stores. (March 2025). Forbes.

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