Did Wicked's 'Popular' Inspire Ming Ye's 'Popular Song' or Vice Versa?

Introduction

The world of music, much like many creative fields, is often a reflection of inspiration from one creation to another. This article explores the fascinating debate over whether the iconic musical Wicked's song "Popular" served as an inspiration for Ming Ye's "Popular Song," or if it was the other way around. Both works tackle the theme of being perceived as outcasts, finding one's place among others, and the personal struggles that accompany such journeys.

The Background of Wicked's “Popular”

Wicked, the popular Broadway musical, premiered in 2003 and received critical acclaim for its compelling storyline and powerful performances. The song "Popular," which features in Act I, draws its themes from the classic novel The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum. Set in the Land of Oz, the musical tells the story of two girls, Elphaba (or the Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda, and their journey from the outcasts of Munchkinland to their respective positions of power. The song "Popular" is a poignant ballad performed by Elphaba, detailing her struggle to be accepted and understood.

A Decade Later: Ming Ye's “Popular Song”

Approximately a decade after the popularity of Wicked, Ming Ye, a contemporary Taiwanese singer, released her song "Popular Song" in 2014. Like the musical, Ye's song explores the idea of not fitting in and the process of accepting oneself. "Popular Song" serves as a powerful affirmation of individuality and self-worth, focusing on the isolation that often accompanies being different and the eventual triumph over such feelings.

The Themes and Comparison

Theme of Outcast

Both "Popular" and "Popular Song" delve deeply into the theme of being an outcast. The musical Wicked dramatizes the struggles Elphaba faces in her journey from isolation to finding her place, while Ye's song provides a modern take on the same theme. Both tracks evoke a sense of alienation and the internal battle to overcome the societal pressures that dictate popularity and acceptance.

Chorus and Lyric Structure

The most noticeable similarity between the two works is their structure. Both "Popular" and "Popular Song" feature powerful, repeated choruses that underscore their themes. Ye, in her song, directly references the concept of being "popular," echoing the musical's central idea. This parallel in structure and lyrical content suggests a shared thematic inspiration or influence.

Lyrics and Personal Struggles

Lyrically, both songs delve into the personal struggles of not fitting in. In "Popular," Elphaba sings about her wish to be loved and accepted but the fear of being abandoned. In "Popular Song," Ye articulates the feeling of being invisible, the desire to be recognized, and the rawness of self-acceptance. These personal narratives resonate with listeners on a deeply emotional level, making both works relatable and impactful.

The Debate: Inspiration or Coincidence?

Given the time gap between the premier of "Popular" and the release of "Popular Song," it is difficult to definitively determine whether there was a direct influence. However, the thematic overlap and structural similarities lead to a compelling discussion about possible influence. The creators of both works might have been inspired by universal human experiences and shared themes, rather than by a direct appropriation of the original work.

Conclusion

While the debate remains open, the shared themes of belonging and self-acceptance do suggest that both works might have drawn inspiration from similar sources. Whether it is the outcast's journey in the Land of Oz or the modern experience of feeling alienated, these universal themes appear to resonate strongly in both "Popular" and "Popular Song."

Regardless of the source of inspiration, both "Popular" and "Popular Song" offer powerful narratives of identity and the struggle for self-acceptance. Their impact on audiences underscores the enduring nature of these themes and the crucial role that music plays in exploring and validating human experiences.