Picking the right song for a female audition can be nerve-wracking. You want to show off your voice but also stand out from the crowd. It’s a challenge many aspiring singers face.
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.
This article lists 61 female audition songs to help you shine. From classic ballads to modern pop hits, there’s something for every voice type and style.
In this guide, you’ll find various song options across different genres and tips on choosing the best song for your voice.
Prepare to find your perfect audition song and make a lasting impression on the judges.
Timeless Ballads
1. “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston, known for her powerful voice and incredible range, made this Dolly Parton song her own. Her version became one of the best-selling singles of all time.
- Release Date: 1992
- Album: The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album
2. “Natural Woman” by Aretha Franklin
The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, left an indelible mark on music history. Her soulful delivery and passionate performance make this song a standout choice.
- Release Date: 1967
- Album: Lady Soul
3. “I Have Nothing” by Whitney Houston
Another Whitney classic, this song demands both vocal power and control. It’s from “The Bodyguard” soundtrack, one of the best-selling albums ever.
- Release Date: 1993
- Album: The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album
4. “The Way We Were” by Barbra Streisand
(add the album cover image of- The Way We Were)
Barbra Streisand, a multi-talented artist with a distinctive voice, won an Oscar for this song. It’s a great choice to show off your ability to convey emotion.
- Release Date: 1973
- Album: The Way We Were
5. “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion
Celine Dion, famous for her technical skill and passionate performances, recorded this song for “Titanic.” It became her signature song and a global hit.
- Release Date: 1997
- Album: Let’s Talk About Love
Golden Oldies
6. “Son of a Preacher Man” by Dusty Springfield
With her distinctive husky voice, Dusty Springfield brought a blue-eyed soul to the masses. This song showcases her ability to blend pop with R&B.
- Release Date: 1968
- Album: Dusty in Memphis
7. “You Don’t Own Me” by Lesley Gore
Lesley Gore recorded this feminist anthem at just 17. It’s a powerful statement of independence that still resonates today.
- Release Date: 1963
- Album: Lesley Gore Sings of Mixed-Up Hearts
8. “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” by The Shirelles
The Shirelles, one of the first successful girl groups, paved the way for many others. This touching song blends innocence with maturity.
- Release Date: 1960
- Album: Tonight’s the Night
9. “Respect” by Aretha Franklin
Another Aretha classic, this song became an anthem for the civil rights and feminist movements. It’s a great choice to show off your attitude and vocal power.
- Release Date: 1967
- Album: I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
10. “At Last” by Etta James
Etta James, known for her powerful voice and emotional delivery, made this song an enduring classic. It’s perfect for showing off your ability to convey deep emotion.
- Release Date: 1960
- Album: At Last!
Contemporary Pop Hits
11. “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele
Adele, known for her powerful vocals and emotional delivery, burst onto the scene with this track. Her soulful voice and raw talent have made her one of the most respected artists of her generation.
- Release Date: 2010
- Album: 21
12. “Someone Like You” by Adele
Another Adele classic, this ballad demonstrates her ability to convey deep emotion. It’s a great choice for showing off vocal control and interpretive skills.
- Release Date: 2011
- Album: 21
13. “Shallow” by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper
Lady Gaga, famous for her versatility and powerful voice, won an Oscar for this song from “A Star is Born.” It’s a challenging duet that can be adapted for a solo performance.
- Release Date: 2018
- Album: A Star Is Born Soundtrack
14. “Halo” by Beyoncé
Beyoncé, a cultural icon known for her powerful voice and stage presence, showcases her range in this pop ballad. It’s a great choice for demonstrating vocal control and emotional depth.
- Release Date: 2008
- Album: I Am… Sasha Fierce
15. “Blank Space (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift, known for her songwriting skills and genre-crossing career, offers this upbeat pop hit. It’s a good choice for showing personality and attitude.
- Release Date: 2023
- Album: 1989 (Taylor’s Version)
16. “Delicate” by Taylor Swift
This softer Taylor Swift song allows for a more nuanced performance. It’s perfect for showcasing vocal control and emotional subtlety.
- Release Date: 2018
- Album: Reputation
17. “Willow” by Taylor Swift
From Swift’s foray into folk-pop, this song offers a chance to show off a different side of your voice. It’s a good choice for demonstrating versatility.
- Release Date: 2020
- Album: Evermore
18. “Hello” by Adele
Another powerful Adele ballad, this song requires both vocal strength and control. It’s an excellent choice for showing off your range.
- Release Date: 2015
- Album: 25
19. “Drivers License” by Olivia Rodrigo
Olivia Rodrigo, a young artist who quickly rose to fame, offers this emotional ballad. It’s a good choice for connecting with younger judges and showing contemporary relevance.
- Release Date: 2021
- Album: Sour
20. “Good 4 U” by Olivia Rodrigo
This upbeat pop-rock track from Rodrigo allows for a more energetic performance. It’s great for showing off your ability to handle different styles.
- Release Date: 2021
- Album: Sour
21. “Deja Vu” by Olivia Rodrigo
Another hit from Rodrigo, this song offers a mix of soft verses and powerful choruses. It’s a good choice for demonstrating vocal versatility.
- Release Date: 2021
- Album: Sour
Upbeat Anthems
22. “Shake It Off (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
Swift’s catchy pop anthem is ideal for demonstrating confidence and charisma. It allows for a fun, energetic performance that can engage the judges.
- Release Date: 2023
- Album: 1989 (Taylor’s Version)
23. “Cruel Summer” by Taylor Swift
This upbeat track from Swift’s “Lover” album offers a mix of catchy melodies and emotional lyrics. It’s great for showing both vocal range and performance skills.
- Release Date: 2019
- Album: Lover
24. “Firework” by Katy Perry
Perry, known for her powerful voice and theatrical performances, offers this inspirational pop anthem. It’s perfect for showcasing vocal strength and stage presence.
- Release Date: 2010
- Album: Teenage Dream
25. “Roar” by Katy Perry
Another empowering hit from Perry, “Roar,” allows you to demonstrate vocal power and personality. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can leave a strong impression.
- Release Date: 2013
- Album: Prism
26. “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” by Kelly Clarkson
Clarkson, the first American Idol winner, is known for her powerful vocals. This anthem is great for showing off your vocal strength and resilience.
- Release Date: 2011
- Album: Stronger
27. “Brutal” by Olivia Rodrigo
This pop-punk track from Rodrigo allows for a more edgy performance. It’s ideal for demonstrating versatility and attitude.
- Release Date: 2021
- Album: Sour
28. “Love Story (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
This country-pop crossover hit from Swift’s early career offers a sweet, romantic narrative. It’s good for showing storytelling ability through song.
- Release Date: 2021
- Album: Fearless (Taylor’s Version)
29. “You Belong with Me (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
Another early Swift hit, this song allows for a relatable, charming performance, which is great for connecting with the audience.
- Release Date: 2021
- Album: Fearless (Taylor’s Version)
30. “Look What You Made Me Do” by Taylor Swift
This dramatic pop track showcases Swift’s edgier side. It’s perfect for a bold, confident performance.
- Release Date: 2017
- Album: Reputation
31. “I Knew You Were Trouble (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
This pop-rock song from Swift allows for a dynamic vocal performance with its mix of softer verses and powerful choruses.
- Release Date: 2021
- Album: Red (Taylor’s Version)
32. “21” by Gracie Abrams
Abrams, known for her introspective lyrics and indie-pop sound, offers this emotionally raw track. It’s great for showcasing vulnerability and authenticity.
- Release Date: 2020
- Album: Minor
33. “I Miss You, I’m Sorry” by Gracie Abrams
Another emotive song from Abrams, this track allows for a more subdued but equally impactful performance. It’s ideal for demonstrating vocal control and emotional depth.
- Release Date: 2020
- Album: Minor
Soul and R&B Hits
34. “Ain’t No Way” by Aretha Franklin
Another Franklin classic, this soulful ballad showcases emotional depth. It’s perfect for showing off your ability to convey feeling through your voice.
- Release Date: 1968
- Album: Lady Soul
35. “Chain of Fools” by Aretha Franklin
This rhythm and blues hit allows you to demonstrate both vocal power and groove. It’s a great choice for showing off your ability to handle complex rhythms.
- Release Date: 1967
- Album: Lady Soul
36. “Un-break My Heart” by Toni Braxton
Toni Braxton’s distinctive deep voice makes this emotional ballad perfect for demonstrating vocal control and range.
- Release Date: 1996
- Album: Secrets
37. “Fallin'” by Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys, known for her soulful voice and piano skills, burst onto the scene with this hit. It’s great for showing off your vocal runs and emotional delivery.
- Release Date: 2001
- Album: Songs in A Minor
38. “Killing Me Softly with His Song” by Roberta Flack
Roberta Flack’s smooth, expressive voice made this song a classic. It’s perfect for demonstrating your ability to convey subtle emotions through your voice.
- Release Date: 1973
- Album: Killing Me Softly
39. “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys
This song is another soulful ballad from Keys that allows you to show off your range and emotional depth. It’s a great choice for demonstrating your ability to connect with the lyrics.
- Release Date: 2004
- Album: The Diary of Alicia Keys
Classic Country Songs
40. “Jolene” by Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton, a country music legend known for her songwriting and distinctive voice, created this timeless hit. It’s perfect for showing emotional depth and storytelling ability.
- Release Date: 1973
- Album: Jolene
41. “Crazy” by Patsy Cline
Patsy Cline’s rich, vibrant voice made this song a country standard. It’s ideal for demonstrating vocal control and conveying complex emotions.
- Release Date: 1961
- Album: Showcase
42. “Stand by Your Man” by Tammy Wynette
Tammy Wynette, often called the “First Lady of Country Music,” offers this classic ballad. It’s great for showcasing your ability to hit high notes with power.
- Release Date: 1968
- Album: Stand by Your Man
43. “Blue Bayou” by Linda Ronstadt
Linda Ronstadt, known for her versatility across genres, made this Roy Orbison song her own. It’s perfect for showing off your vocal range and control.
- Release Date: 1977
- Album: Simple Dreams
44. “Coal Miner’s Daughter” by Loretta Lynn
Loretta Lynn, a pioneer for women in country music, tells her life story in this autobiographical song. It’s ideal for demonstrating your storytelling abilities.
- Release Date: 1970
- Album: Coal Miner’s Daughter
Modern Country Hits
45. “The House That Built Me” by Miranda Lambert
Miranda Lambert, known for her passionate performances, offers this touching ballad. It showcases your ability to connect with lyrics and convey emotion.
- Release Date: 2009
- Album: Revolution
46. “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood, an American Idol winner turned country superstar, delivers this powerful revenge anthem. It’s perfect for showing off your vocal strength and attitude.
- Release Date: 2006
- Album: Some Hearts
47. “Girl Crush” by Little Big Town
While performed by a group, this harmonically rich song can be adapted for a solo performance. It’s ideal for demonstrating vocal control and emotional nuance.
- Release Date: 2014
- Album: Pain Killer
48. “Blown Away” by Carrie Underwood
Another hit from Underwood, this dramatic song allows you to show off your vocal power and range. It’s great for a dynamic performance.
- Release Date: 2012
- Album: Blown Away
49. “Need You Now” by Lady A
This crossover hit blends country with pop elements. It’s perfect for showcasing your ability to convey longing and vulnerability.
- Release Date: 2009
- Album: Need You Now
50. “Back to December (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
This song mixes country and pop styles from Swift’s country era. It’s ideal for demonstrating your ability to handle different genres and convey genuine emotion.
- Release Date: 2023
- Album: Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)
51. “Fearless (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
This song from Swift’s early career blends heartfelt lyrics with a country-pop sound, making it ideal for showcasing your versatility and emotional connection to the music.
- Release Date: 2021
- Album: Fearless (Taylor’s Version)
52. “Our Song” by Taylor Swift
This early hit from Swift showcases her storytelling ability and charming country style. It’s perfect for demonstrating vocal agility and personality.
- Release Date: 2007
- Album: Taylor Swift
Musical Theater Hits
53. “On My Own” from Les Misérables
This emotional solo showcases the character Éponine’s unrequited love. It’s great for demonstrating your ability to convey complex emotions through song.
- Release Date: 1980
- Musical: Les Misérables
54. “Defying Gravity” from Wicked
This song, a powerful anthem about self-discovery and empowerment, allows you to show off your vocal range and strength.
- Release Date: 2003
- Musical: Wicked
55. “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Misérables
This poignant ballad sung by Fantine requires both vocal control and emotional depth. It’s perfect for showcasing your ability to tell a story through song.
- Release Date: 1980
- Musical: Les Misérables
56. “Memory” from Cats
Many great performers have made this song famous. It demands both vocal prowess and dramatic interpretation, ideal for demonstrating one’s ability to build emotion throughout a performance.
- Release Date: 1981
- Musical: Cats
57. “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” from Evita
This iconic song requires a blend of vocal strength and nuanced acting. It’s excellent for showing your ability to portray a complex character through music.
- Release Date: 1976
- Musical: Evita
58. “She Used to Be Mine” from Waitress
This song is a more contemporary musical theater piece that allows for a raw, emotional performance. It’s great for demonstrating vulnerability and vocal control.
- Release Date: 2015
- Musical: Waitress
59.”Let It Go” from Frozen
While originally from an animated film, this song has become a musical theater staple. It’s perfect for showing off your vocal power and range.
- Release Date: 2013
- Film/Musical: Frozen
60. “Burn” from Hamilton
This emotionally charged song from the hit musical Hamilton allows for a nuanced, powerful performance. It’s ideal for showcasing your ability to convey intense emotions.
- Release Date: 2015
- Musical: Hamilton
61. “The Wizard and I” from Wicked
Another song from Wicked, this piece allows you to demonstrate your vocal range and ability to portray character development through music.
- Release Date: 2003
- Musical: Wicked
Summing It Up
Choosing the right song for your audition can make all the difference. We’ve explored various options, from timeless ballads to modern pop hits, covering multiple genres and styles.
Remember, the best song for you is one that showcases your vocal abilities and lets your personality shine through.
As you prepare for your audition, consider these songs as starting points.
Practice, refine your technique, and most importantly, choose a song that resonates with you. Your confidence and connection to the music will come through in your performance.
What’s your go-to audition song? Have you tried any from our list?