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best christmas karaoke songs for your holiday party

Discover the best christmas karaoke songs to liven up your holiday party. A curated list of easy, crowd-pleasing tunes perfect for any gathering.

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best christmas karaoke songs for your holiday party
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The holiday season is synonymous with festive gatherings, cheerful music, and unforgettable moments. What better way to elevate your Christmas party or create engaging content than with a karaoke session filled with timeless classics and modern hits? Selecting the right songs is crucial; it's the key to transforming a quiet get-together into an energetic, sing-along celebration or a high-engagement online event. This definitive guide dives deep into the best Christmas karaoke songs, offering a curated selection for every voice, vibe, and occasion.
We move beyond a simple list, breaking down each track with practical details:
  • Performance Notes: Difficulty, tempo, and vocal range considerations.
  • Arrangement Tips: Suggested keys and backing track styles.
  • Recommended Versions: Iconic recordings to inspire your performance.
More importantly, this guide is built for creators and organizers. We provide actionable advice on how to produce professional-quality lyric videos using MyKaraoke Video, covering everything from font choices to perfectly synced visuals. Planning the perfect event involves more than just a great playlist; understanding essential tips for planning can help ensure your holiday promotion or party is a resounding success. Get ready to warm up those vocal cords, find the perfect song, and learn the techniques to make your holiday performance shine.

1. All I Want for Christmas Is You - Mariah Carey

Topping any list of the best Christmas karaoke songs is the undisputed modern queen of holiday music, Mariah Carey. "All I Want for Christmas Is You" isn't just a song; it's a cultural event each year. Its instant recognizability and infectious energy make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any holiday party, drawing everyone in from the very first jingle bell chime.

Why It's a Karaoke Essential

This track succeeds because it masterfully blends a nostalgic, '60s girl-group sound with a powerful, contemporary pop vocal. The result is a song that feels both timeless and exciting. For a karaoke performer, it offers the chance to deliver a high-energy, show-stopping number that gets the whole room singing and dancing. The song’s structure builds beautifully, from the slower, soulful intro to the explosive, up-tempo main body, creating a perfect performance arc.

Performance & Video Tips

While Mariah's five-octave range is legendary, the song’s core melody is quite accessible. The key to a great performance isn't hitting every whistle note, but capturing the track's pure, unadulterated joy.
  • Vocal Difficulty: Medium to Hard. The melody is catchy, but the ad-libs and iconic vocal runs require practice.
  • Tempo: Up-tempo (150 BPM). Maintain your energy throughout the track.
  • Key Suggestion: Perform in the original key of G Major if possible, but don't be afraid to use a key-changer to find a comfortable range.
  • MyKaraoke Video Tip: Use dynamic, festive visuals. Think animated snowflakes, sparkling lights, or a crackling fireplace background. Sync bold, celebratory font changes to the chorus to emphasize the song's biggest moments.
Because of its straightforward structure and popular appeal, it's also a fantastic choice for those new to performing. For more ideas on accessible tracks, you can explore other great options for easy karaoke songs to build your confidence.

2. Last Christmas - Wham!

For a touch of '80s synth-pop nostalgia and bittersweet holiday emotion, "Last Christmas" is an absolute must. This iconic track from Wham! offers a different flavor from the usual festive cheer, blending a melancholic story with an irresistibly smooth and catchy melody. Its enduring popularity, especially in the UK and Europe, makes it one of the best Christmas karaoke songs for performers who want to connect with the audience on an emotional level.
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Why It's a Karaoke Essential

"Last Christmas" thrives on its sophisticated blend of heartbreak and hope, all wrapped in a classic pop arrangement. The song's narrative is relatable, and George Michael's gentle, heartfelt vocal delivery provides a perfect template for a karaoke performance that is more about feeling than vocal acrobatics. The steady rhythm and iconic synth riff make it easy for the audience to get lost in the groove, creating an intimate and engaging atmosphere. It’s a song that invites everyone to sway along and quietly sing the memorable chorus.

Performance & Video Tips

The key to a memorable performance of this song is capturing its vulnerable, emotional core. Instead of trying to perfectly mimic George Michael, focus on telling the story through your own interpretation. Build a connection with the audience during the softer verses and let your voice soar with feeling on the chorus.
  • Vocal Difficulty: Easy to Medium. The vocal range is manageable, but conveying the right emotion requires nuance.
  • Tempo: Mid-tempo (107 BPM). The steady pace gives you plenty of room to breathe and emote.
  • Key Suggestion: The original key of D Major is comfortable for many vocal ranges, making it an accessible choice for most singers.
  • MyKaraoke Video Tip: Use a retro, '80s-inspired aesthetic for your video. Think soft-focus visuals, pastel color palettes, and vintage fonts. A slow zoom or a subtle, panning background of a snowy landscape can beautifully complement the song's wistful mood.
While a fantastic solo piece, its call-and-response nature in the chorus also makes it a great choice for a shared performance. You can discover more tracks like this by exploring some of the best karaoke songs for duets that encourage collaboration.

3. Feliz Navidad - José Feliciano

Few songs capture the spirit of global holiday cheer quite like José Feliciano's "Feliz Navidad." This bilingual classic is a masterclass in simplicity and warmth, using just nineteen words (in English and Spanish) to convey a message of joy that transcends cultural boundaries. Its irresistibly cheerful acoustic rhythm and straightforward, heartfelt lyrics make it an essential addition to any list of the best Christmas karaoke songs, guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
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Why It's a Karaoke Essential

The genius of "Feliz Navidad" lies in its universal appeal and profound simplicity. Written by Puerto Rican singer-songwriter José Feliciano, its blend of English and Spanish lyrics makes it incredibly inclusive and perfect for diverse audiences. The song’s structure is repetitive in the best way possible, making it exceptionally easy for a crowd to join in, even if they’ve never heard it before. It’s a low-pressure, high-reward performance that focuses on connection and shared happiness rather than technical vocal prowess.

Performance & Video Tips

The key to a memorable performance is to channel the song's genuine, infectious warmth. Your delivery should feel personal and sincere, as if you are personally wishing every member of the audience a Merry Christmas. Focus on clear pronunciation of the Spanish phrases to show respect for the song's heritage.
  • Vocal Difficulty: Easy. The melody is simple and the vocal range is very manageable for most singers.
  • Tempo: Mid-tempo (149 BPM). It has a lively but relaxed pace that is easy to follow.
  • Key Suggestion: The original key of G Major is very accessible. There is little need to change it unless you want to create a unique arrangement.
  • MyKaraoke Video Tip: Use a warm and inviting visual theme. Think golden hues, soft-focus Christmas lights, and perhaps cultural imagery like poinsettias. Use a clear, rounded font like a friendly sans-serif that is easy to read. For the video background, a slow-panning shot of a festive, cozy home scene would perfectly match the song’s heartfelt tone.

4. Jingle Bell Rock - Bobby Helms

For a dose of pure, vintage holiday fun, Bobby Helms' "Jingle Bell Rock" is a must-have on any list of the best Christmas karaoke songs. Released in 1957, this track injects a playful rock-and-roll spirit into the holiday season. Its catchy, swing-style rhythm and lighthearted lyrics make it an incredibly fun and energetic choice that invites the entire audience to tap their feet and sing along.
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Why It's a Karaoke Essential

"Jingle Bell Rock" thrives on its infectious energy and simplicity. Unlike vocally demanding ballads, its charm lies in its upbeat tempo and charismatic delivery. This makes it perfect for performers of all skill levels who want to entertain and engage the crowd. Its prominent feature in pop culture, most notably the iconic talent show scene in Mean Girls, has given it a modern-day revival, making it recognizable to multiple generations. This song is less about vocal perfection and more about having a fantastic time.

Performance & Video Tips

The key to a memorable performance is to lean into the song's playful, slightly cheeky vibe. Don't just stand there; move around, interact with the audience, and let the buoyant rhythm guide you.
  • Vocal Difficulty: Easy. The melody is straightforward and the range is not demanding, making it highly accessible.
  • Tempo: Up-tempo (120 BPM). The steady, danceable beat is easy to follow.
  • Key Suggestion: The original key of D Major is comfortable for most singers. Its simple chord progression also makes it easy to adjust if needed.
  • MyKaraoke Video Tip: Use retro-themed visuals to match the song's 1950s origins. Think vintage Christmas card animations, classic diner aesthetics, or old-school jukebox graphics. A bold, rounded font like "Cooper Black" can enhance the fun, nostalgic feel of the lyrics on screen.

5. O Come All Ye Faithful

For those looking to bring a touch of classical grace and solemnity to their holiday gathering, "O Come All Ye Faithful" stands as a monumental choice. This timeless hymn, with roots stretching back to the 18th century, offers a departure from pop and rock, creating a moment of reverence and pure vocal beauty. Its majestic, soaring melody makes it one of the best Christmas karaoke songs for performers who want to showcase vocal control and emotional depth.

Why It's a Karaoke Essential

This carol is powerful because of its universally recognized message of joyful worship and its grand, processional feel. It’s a song that builds in intensity, inviting everyone to join in its powerful refrain, "O come let us adore Him." For a karaoke performer, it provides a unique opportunity to command the room not with high energy, but with poise, vocal strength, and sincere delivery. The song’s traditional arrangement is perfect for demonstrating classical technique and resonant tone.

Performance & Video Tips

The key to mastering "O Come All Ye Faithful" is not theatricality but authenticity and vocal precision. Capturing the song's reverent spirit is far more important than adding modern flair.
  • Vocal Difficulty: Medium. The melody is straightforward, but it requires excellent breath support and sustained notes.
  • Tempo: Slow (70 BPM). Its slow, deliberate pace demands control and emotional gravitas.
  • Key Suggestion: The most common keys are G Major or A Major. Choose the one that allows your voice to resonate fully without straining on the higher notes.
  • MyKaraoke Video Tip: Pair the audio with visuals that reflect the song's sacred nature. Think stained-glass windows, slow-motion candlelight, or classic nativity art. Use an elegant, serif font like Times New Roman or Garamond to enhance the classical feel.
This track is an excellent choice for singers who want to present a more formal or traditional performance. If you're inspired to craft your own version of this classic, you can get started by learning how to create karaoke tracks from scratch to fit your unique vocal style.

6. Wonderful Christmastime - Paul McCartney

A song that’s either adored for its quirky charm or playfully despised, Paul McCartney’s "Wonderful Christmastime" is an undeniable fixture of the holiday season. Its distinctive, synthesizer-heavy sound and deceptively simple lyrics make it a uniquely fun and memorable choice for a karaoke night. The song's cheerful, almost childlike optimism provides a lighthearted break from more traditional carols, inviting everyone to just have a good time.

Why It's a Karaoke Essential

This track's magic lies in its simplicity. Unlike vocally demanding power ballads, "Wonderful Christmastime" is all about vibe and enthusiasm. Its repetitive, catchy chorus is incredibly easy for an entire room to sing along to, making it a fantastic group number. For the main performer, it’s an opportunity to lean into the song's kitschy, retro-futuristic sound from 1979 and deliver a performance that is more about character and fun than technical perfection. It’s one of the best Christmas karaoke songs for kicking off a party or bringing everyone together for a final, feel-good number.

Performance & Video Tips

The key to a successful performance is to embrace the song's straightforward, cheerful spirit. Don't try to over-sing it; instead, channel McCartney’s relaxed and joyful delivery.
  • Vocal Difficulty: Easy. The melody is simple and the vocal range is very manageable for most singers.
  • Tempo: Up-tempo (125 BPM). The rhythm is steady and easy to follow.
  • Key Suggestion: The original key of B Major is generally comfortable, but the song's simple structure makes it easy to transpose if needed.
  • MyKaraoke Video Tip: Reflect the song's synth-pop origins in your video. Use retro, 8-bit style graphics, vintage-looking fonts, or animations of classic synthesizers. A simple, bouncing highlight that follows the "ding dong, ding dong" parts can add a fun, engaging visual element.

7. Silent Night

For a complete change of pace, "Silent Night" offers a moment of pure, tranquil beauty in any holiday karaoke set. This traditional Austrian carol, dating back to 1818, is revered for its simple, gentle melody and profound lyrics. Its serene and contemplative nature makes it a perfect choice for a singer wanting to create an intimate, reflective atmosphere, cutting through the usual holiday party noise.

Why It's a Karaoke Essential

Unlike high-energy pop hits, the power of "Silent Night" lies in its minimalism and emotional depth. It's one of the best Christmas karaoke songs for showcasing vocal purity and control. The song’s universal message of peace resonates deeply, allowing a performer to connect with the audience on a more emotional level. Performing this carol provides a beautiful, quiet interlude that can be incredibly memorable, offering a chance for both the singer and the listeners to pause and reflect.

Performance & Video Tips

The key to a moving performance is not vocal power but emotional sincerity and clarity. Let the peaceful nature of the song guide your delivery, focusing on the story within the lyrics.
  • Vocal Difficulty: Easy. The melody is straightforward and has a limited range, making it accessible to nearly all singers.
  • Tempo: Very Slow (around 65-80 BPM). A deliberate, unhurried pace is essential.
  • Key Suggestion: The original is often performed in Bb Major, but its simplicity allows it to be sung comfortably in many keys. Choose one that allows for soft, clear high notes.
  • MyKaraoke Video Tip: Create a serene visual atmosphere. Use a slow-panning shot of a starry night sky, softly glowing candles, or a peaceful nativity scene. A classic, elegant script font in white or gold will complement the song’s timeless quality. Ensure the lyrics appear gently on screen, fading in and out to match the song's calm tempo.

8. Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree - Brenda Lee

For a dose of pure, vintage holiday fun, Brenda Lee’s "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" is an absolute must. This 1958 rockabilly classic injects a lively, danceable energy into any Christmas party, making it one of the best Christmas karaoke songs for getting people on their feet. Its upbeat rhythm and simple, joyful lyrics create an irresistibly festive atmosphere.

Why It's a Karaoke Essential

This track's enduring appeal comes from its perfect blend of classic holiday imagery with a spirited rock-and-roll beat. It’s a song that feels both nostalgic and full of life, inviting everyone to let loose. For a karaoke singer, it offers the chance to be a charismatic host, encouraging the audience to clap, sing, and dance along. The song’s structure is straightforward and repetitive, making it easy for the crowd to join in on the chorus.

Performance & Video Tips

The key to performing this song is to fully embrace its playful, celebratory spirit. Don't just sing it; perform it with a sense of fun and a little bit of swagger. Your energy will be contagious and make the performance a highlight of the night.
  • Vocal Difficulty: Easy. The melody is catchy and stays within a comfortable range for most singers.
  • Tempo: Up-tempo (150 BPM). The challenge is maintaining clear articulation while keeping up with the brisk pace.
  • Key Suggestion: The original key of A-flat Major is great, but its simple chord structure makes it easy to transpose if needed.
  • MyKaraoke Video Tip: Use retro-inspired visuals. Think '50s-style fonts, vintage Christmas card illustrations, or an animated scene of a sock hop around a Christmas tree. Sync text animations, like a "jiggle" or "bounce" effect, to the beat to enhance the song's rockin' feel.

9. Merry Christmas, Darling - The Carpenters

For those seeking a more tender and sophisticated moment in their holiday karaoke set, "Merry Christmas, Darling" by The Carpenters is an impeccable choice. This smooth, romantic ballad offers a beautiful counterpoint to the high-energy pop hits, providing a space for genuine emotion and vocal control. Its lush arrangement and heartfelt lyrics about longing for a loved one during the holidays resonate deeply, making it a timeless and classy addition to any list of the best Christmas karaoke songs.

Why It's a Karaoke Essential

This track stands out for its elegant simplicity and emotional depth. Unlike bombastic holiday anthems, its power lies in its subtlety and the pure, clean vocal delivery that Karen Carpenter perfected. For a karaoke performer, it's an opportunity to showcase nuance, warmth, and storytelling. The song's gentle, swaying rhythm and beautiful melodic lines allow a singer to connect with the audience on a more personal level, creating a truly memorable and touching performance.

Performance & Video Tips

The key to mastering this song is emotional authenticity, not vocal acrobatics. The performance should feel sincere and heartfelt, capturing the gentle melancholy and romantic hope embedded in the lyrics.
  • Vocal Difficulty: Medium. The melody is straightforward, but it requires excellent breath control and a smooth, controlled vibrato to do it justice.
  • Tempo: Slow (78 BPM). Use the slow pace to your advantage, focusing on clear diction and emotional phrasing.
  • Key Suggestion: The original key of G Major is perfect for most mezzo-sopranos and baritones. Don't be afraid to take it down a step or two to find your most comfortable, warm vocal tone.
  • MyKaraoke Video Tip: Pair this song with elegant, understated visuals. Think soft-focus shots of vintage Christmas decorations, a gently falling snow animation over a warm, candlelit room, or a handwritten letter theme. Use a classic, serif font like Times New Roman or Garamond in a soft white or gold to match the song's sophisticated mood.

10. Holly Jolly Christmas - Burl Ives

For a dose of pure, unadulterated holiday cheer, you can't go wrong with Burl Ives' "Holly Jolly Christmas." This classic from the 1964 television special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is the audio equivalent of a warm hug by the fireplace. Its simple, joyful melody and carefree spirit make it an incredibly welcoming and universally loved choice, perfect for any holiday gathering.

Why It's a Karaoke Essential

This track’s charm lies in its gentle, folksy nature and its immediate association with cherished holiday memories. The song is incredibly accessible, requiring more personality and warmth than technical vocal prowess. It's a low-pressure, high-reward performance that allows the singer to simply have fun and spread cheer. The straightforward structure and repetitive, catchy chorus invite the entire audience to sing along, making it a fantastic icebreaker or a lighthearted number to open a karaoke set.

Performance & Video Tips

The key to performing "Holly Jolly Christmas" is to fully embrace its sweet, whimsical nature. Your goal is to channel the friendly, grandfatherly warmth of Burl Ives himself. A genuine smile will be your most important tool.
  • Vocal Difficulty: Easy. The vocal range is very manageable, and the melody is simple to follow.
  • Tempo: Medium (140 BPM). It has a pleasant, strolling pace that’s easy to keep up with.
  • Key Suggestion: The original key of C Major is comfortable for most singers, but it can easily be adjusted if needed.
  • MyKaraoke Video Tip: Create visuals that evoke classic holiday nostalgia. Use imagery from vintage Christmas cards, soft-focus animations of a snowy village, or even a simple background of decorating a Christmas tree. A friendly, rounded font in festive red or green will perfectly match the song's gentle tone.

Top 10 Christmas Karaoke Songs Comparison

Song
🔄 Implementation Complexity
⚡ Resource Requirements
📊 Expected Outcome
💡 Ideal Use Cases
⭐ Key Advantages
All I Want for Christmas Is You
Medium — some high notes require practice
Low — widely available backing tracks
Very high crowd engagement; upbeat sing-along
Party finale, crowd-pleaser, karaoke main set
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Recognizable, energetic, wide appeal
Last Christmas
Medium — needs emotional authenticity
Low — standard pop backing
Strong emotional resonance; good vocal showcase
Mid-tempo sets, vocal spotlight, nostalgic audiences
⭐⭐⭐ Emotional depth, memorable hook
Feliz Navidad
Low — simple melody, bilingual lines
Low — acoustic or basic backing; pronunciation prep
High inclusivity and sing-along participation
Multicultural gatherings, family sing-alongs
⭐⭐⭐ Universal, easy to learn, welcoming
Jingle Bell Rock
Medium — fast tempo requires stamina
Medium — rhythmic backing and stage energy
High energy and audience excitement; danceable
Party performance, group numbers, upbeat sets
⭐⭐⭐ Energetic, entertaining, nostalgic
O Come All Ye Faithful
High — classical technique & projection
High — trained voice or formal accompaniment
High vocal credibility and emotional gravitas
Formal services, concerts, classical showcases
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Showcases technique, timeless reverence
Wonderful Christmastime
Low — simple repetitive melody
Low — synth backing common
Creates immediate festive mood; polarizing
Retail, lighthearted sets, openings/closers
⭐⭐ Nostalgic, easy to perform
Silent Night
Low–Medium — pitch control and restraint
Low — minimal accompaniment appropriate
Intimate, contemplative impact; emotional clarity
Quiet services, reflective moments, acoustic sets
⭐⭐⭐ Universally respected, emotionally powerful
Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree
Medium — lively tempo, stage presence needed
Medium — backing with strong groove; optional choreography
High audience participation and dancing
Family parties, danceable holiday sets
⭐⭐⭐ Fun, danceable, crowd-friendly
Merry Christmas, Darling
Medium — requires smooth control and nuance
Medium — harmonic backing or duet option
Romantic, intimate atmosphere; vocal sophistication
Slow sets, duets, romantic or lounge settings
⭐⭐⭐ Sophisticated, emotionally resonant
Holly Jolly Christmas
Low — straightforward, playful delivery
Low — light backing; suitable for all ages
Cheerful, family-friendly uplift; easy engagement
Family/kids events, opening numbers, sing-alongs
⭐⭐ Charming, accessible, wholesome

Your Turn to Shine: Putting It All Together for the Perfect Holiday Karaoke Night

You now have a curated arsenal of the best Christmas karaoke songs, spanning from Mariah Carey’s powerhouse pop anthem to the heartfelt reverence of "Silent Night." We've explored the classics that get everyone singing, the modern hits that feel instantly familiar, and the essential duets that build festive camaraderie. But a truly unforgettable holiday karaoke experience goes far beyond just a list of tracks; it’s about crafting an immersive and joyful event.
The real magic happens when you combine a stellar playlist with a seamless, professional presentation. As we've detailed, a great karaoke video is more than just words on a screen. It’s an art form that guides the performer, enhances the music, and sets the mood for the entire room.

Key Takeaways for Karaoke Success

Remember the core principles we've covered. Song selection is your foundation, so build a playlist that balances energy levels, vocal ranges, and musical eras. A great setlist should take your audience on a journey, moving from an upbeat icebreaker like "Jingle Bell Rock" to a soulful showstopper like "Merry Christmas, Darling" before bringing everyone together for a group finale.
Beyond the playlist, your execution is what elevates the experience from a simple sing-along to a polished event.
  • Synchronization is King: The most crucial technical element is perfect timing. Lyrics that appear too early or too late can derail even the most confident singer. Use the waveform editing and timestamp features in tools like MyKaraoke Video to ensure every syllable lands exactly on the beat.
  • Visuals Matter: Don’t underestimate the power of aesthetics. A well-chosen font, a festive background video, and subtle animations transform a basic lyric video into a captivating visual aid. Customization is your best friend; match the visual style to the song's vibe for maximum impact.
  • Preparation Prevents Panic: Test your equipment, from the microphones to the display screen, well in advance. Having your custom karaoke videos pre-loaded and organized means you can focus on being a great host, encouraging performers and keeping the energy high.

From Playlist to Performance: Your Actionable Next Steps

With this guide in hand, you’re ready to create a holiday karaoke night that will be remembered long after the last decoration is packed away. The first step is to finalize your song selection. Build your master list, considering the specific tastes and personalities of your expected audience.
Once you’ve curated your ultimate holiday setlist, organize it in a digital format. Creating a dedicated Spotify playlist is an excellent way to keep your tracks in order and easily accessible. After carefully curating your ultimate holiday playlist, you'll want to know how to effectively share your Spotify playlists with co-hosts, performers, or even guests ahead of time to build excitement.
Your final and most impactful step is creating the visual assets. This is where you transform your list of the best Christmas karaoke songs into a dynamic, interactive experience. By applying the video creation techniques we discussed, such as choosing high-contrast text and using smooth transitions, you provide performers with the confidence they need to truly shine. A well-crafted karaoke video doesn’t just display lyrics; it empowers the singer, making them feel like a star. This thoughtful preparation is what distinguishes a good host from a legendary one, ensuring that every participant, from the timid first-timer to the seasoned karaoke veteran, has a fantastic time.
So, take these songs, tips, and tools and get ready to host a celebration filled with music, laughter, and unforgettable moments. This holiday season, don't just play the music; give your friends, family, or colleagues the gift of performance.
Ready to turn your curated list of the best Christmas karaoke songs into a professional-grade experience? MyKaraoke Video provides all the tools you need to create stunning, perfectly synced lyric videos with ease. Stop wrestling with complicated software and start crafting the ultimate holiday karaoke night by visiting MyKaraoke Video today