Choosing the Best Wicked Songs

Selection of the top Wicked songs often comes down to personal taste, but there are several tracks that stand out for their artistic merit and fan popularity. Below, we explore the most iconic and beloved pieces from the Wicked musical, alongside insights from an unexpected fan favorite.

A Musical Franchise: The Best Wicked Songs

The Wicked musical, known for its powerful storytelling and rich musical score, features a myriad of standout songs. Here are the top contenders:

The Wicked Witch of the West

Arguably the most recognizable song from the musical, The Wicked Witch of the West represents Elphaba's empowerment and determination. This anthem of self-acceptance and resilience has resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, making it a cornerstone of the musical experience.

A New Beginning

This duet between Elphaba and Glinda is a poignant exploration of their complex friendship and the profound impact each has on the other's life. The emotional depth and vulnerability in this song make it a favorite among those who appreciate the nuanced relationships in the Wicked world.

Easy to Be Hard

Glinda's upbeat and charming Easy to Be Hard showcases her wit and wit as she helps Elphaba navigate the complexities of fitting in. This song is a testament to Glinda's strategic and kind-hearted nature, making it both entertaining and endearing.

Unexpectedly Favored: Thank Goodness

Not everyone shares the same top picks, and for me, a little-known song like Thank Goodness (Sometimes It Feels Like That) has a special place. During the song's celebration scene, Glinda appears to be ecstatically happy, but as the song progresses, she reflects on a hidden cost to her success.

My favorite line from the song vividly captures the duality of human nature:

Simply couldn't be happier. Well - not There's a kind of a sort of cost There are bridges you cross You didn't know you crossed Until you've crossed

The realization that joy bought with a cost is not authentic is a profound and relatable moment. The critique of external validation and the human desire for genuine happiness adds a layer of depth to the character of Glinda.

The song's impact lies in its ability to resonate with listeners who have experienced the bitter sweetness of achieving something but still feeling empty inside. This unexpected favorite highlights the universality of themes explored in Wicked.

The Fan and Critical Favorite: Defying Gravity

Defying Gravity, performed by Idina Menzel, is a crowning moment for Elphaba. The song's powerful and soaring melody, combined with Menzel's incredible vocal prowess, makes it a critical darling. This number embodies Elphaba's inner strength and determination, much like its iconic counterpart The Wicked Witch of the West.

Another favorite among fans is For Good, sung by Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth. The blend of their voices in this duet is simply magical, creating a duet that is both emotionally moving and technically impressive. This song is a testament to the deep and complex relationships in the Wicked world, emphasizing the bond between Glinda and Elphaba.

Popular, written by Glinda and performed by Idina Menzel, gets the nod for its sheer comedic genius. This song offers a fresh take on the Wicked story, presenting a humorous yet impactful twist on the traditional narrative. Its unexpected humor and clever wordplay make it a standout favorite, transporting listeners back to the first time they experienced it.

Amazon's rankings align with these choices, suggesting that not only do these songs resonate with fans, but they also reflect the overall critical acclaim and commercial success of the Wicked musical.

From iconic anthems to unexpected favorites, the Wicked musical offers a wealth of memorable songs that speak to diverse themes and emotions. Whether it's the raw strength of The Wicked Witch of the West or the reflective Thank Goodness, these tracks continue to captivate audiences and cement their place in the Wicked canon.