I know the problem, you need a show-stopping tune, but you’re just scratching your head, trying to decide what to sing. Maybe you dream of trading the hairbrush you sing for a real microphone, and the mirror you sing in front of for a real audience. Well have no fear, every tune in this list of classic female cabaret songs is guaranteed to entertain. And just for fun, I’ve also given you a little bit of information about each song. After all, you may also need a good verbal introduction to that song.
1) Big spender
This raunchy classic was made famous by Shirley Bassey, but it actually first appeared in Bob Fosse’s musical Sweet Charity.
2) Cabaret
Once again, originally a Broadway musical. Made famous by Liza Minnelli in the Bob Fosse-directed film of the same name.
3) Fall in love again
This one is great if you want a more sensual feel. First played by Marlene Dietrich in the film ‘Der Blaue Engel’, she made the German and English versions her own.
4) Alexander’s Ragtime Band.
If you want to test your jazz skills, then this is definitely the song for you. It’s not an exclusively female cabaret song, but Emma Carus first made it famous. Besse Smith, Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughn subsequently gave her seal of approval.
5) If My Friends Could See Me Now
An upbeat, life-affirming classic from Sweet Charity.
6) Maybe this time
Another soulful Cabaret anthem, though this one wasn’t originally written for the movie.
7) Mein Herr
Our third Cabaret. If you want fun and comedy in your song, this is for you.
8) No regrets
Popularized by ‘The Sparrow’ herself, Edith Piaf. On her release, she dedicated this song to the French Foreign Legion.
9) Take me to your heart again (La Vie en Rose)
Another Piaf classic. He won the Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 1998.
10) The Ladies Who Lunch
A beautiful song by the Stephen Sondheim Musical Company. Originally staged in 1970.
There may be some debate as to whether or not these ten female cabaret songs are the best of all time, but they all measure up, and you’ll gain confidence knowing you’ve picked a winner. Happy singing!