I know the problem, you need a show stopping tune but you are just scratching your head, trying to decide what to sing? Maybe you dream of swapping the hairbrush that you sing down for a real microphone, and the mirror you sing in front of for a real audience. Well have no fear every tune on this list of classic female cabaret songs is guaranteed entertain. And just for fun, I’ve also given you a bit of background to each song as well. After all you may need a good verbal introduction to that song as well.
1) Big Spender
This raunchy classic was made famous by Shirley Bassey, but actually first appeared in the Bob Fosse musical Sweet Charity.
2) Cabaret
Again, originally a Broadway musical. Made famous by Liza Minnelli in the Bob Fosse directed film of the same name.
3) Falling In Love Again
This one’s great if you want a more sultry feel. First performed by Marlene Dietrich in the film ‘Der Blaue Engel’, she made both the German and English versions her own.
4) Alexander’s Ragtime Band.
If you want to try out your jazz chops then, without a doubt, this is the song for you. Not exclusively a female cabaret song, but it was first made famous by Emma Carus. Besse Smith, Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughn subsequently gave it their seal of approval.
5) If My Friends Could See Me Now
An upbeat, life affirming classic from Sweet Charity.
6) Maybe This Time
Another rousing anthem from Cabaret, although this one was not originally written for the film.
7) Mein Herr
Our third one from Cabaret. If you want fun and comedy in your song then this is the one for you.
8) No Regrets (Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien)
Made popular by ‘The Sparrow’ herself, Edith Piaf. On it’s release she dedicated this song to The French Foreign Legion.
9) Take Me To Your Heart Again (La Vie en Rose)
Another Classic from Piaf. It won the Grammy Hall of Fame award in 1998.
10) The Ladies Who Lunch
A lovely song from 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 indeed the all time greatest but they are all up there, and you will gain confidence in knowing that you have picked a winner. Happy singing!