David Bridges
As the end of the year approaches, the Wicked soundtrack finds its way into our Spotify Wrapped playlists, yet it feels like the album deserves much more recognition than it receives. In just a few weeks, it’s bound to claim top spots in my rankings and likely many others’ as well. With the impending release of Wicked: Part Two, we might see this incredible soundtrack dominating everyone’s Wrapped lists. Its enchanting melodies and captivating lyrics are sure to resonate widely with fans, making it a key player in the musical landscape of the year.
Considering this, let’s dive into the music from Wicked Part One, where we see Ariana Grande portraying Galinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba. Their compelling witchy friendship drives the narrative forward in this remarkable film adaptation. For those of us who have already experienced the magic of the film multiple times, there’s a curated setlist of tracks that accompany us outside of the theater. Whether you have your favorites or consider it a no-skips album, we’ve ranked the songs from the Wicked soundtrack from those that are forgettable to those that have become irresistible earworms.
“A Sentimental Man” – Jeff Goldblum: A Reflective Moment in the Soundtrack
We must address the fact that whisper singing is not the most effective style. While we appreciate Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard, his choice to slow down this already underappreciated track leads to an overly drawn-out experience, especially at a moment when the story is on the verge of a thrilling turn. This choice detracts from the momentum of the musical and leaves listeners craving a more dynamic presentation.
“Something Bad” – Peter Dinklage and Cynthia Erivo: A Moment of Tension and Drama
The standout aspect of this number is undoubtedly Cynthia Erivo’s powerful vocals, which elevate the performance significantly. Despite its importance in the first act, this song often becomes our cue for a bathroom break or snack run during repeat viewings. While it serves a crucial role in delivering necessary exposition, it lacks the captivating energy that would keep audiences fully engaged throughout its duration. However, it does have its moments that add depth to the storyline.
“Dear Old Shiz” – A Nostalgic Ode from the Shiz University Choir
This track gives us a delightful upgrade to the magical school theme, and it leaves us yearning for more enchanting performances. I can already envision the joy of strolling through a Universal Studios theme park and hearing this number performed live. Ariana Grande’s vocal prowess shines brightly, making her notes resonate with magic and nostalgia.
“No One Mourns the Wicked” – An Anthem of Defiance by Ariana Grande and the Wicked Cast
The phrase, “We mourn the Wicked,” resonates powerfully within this song. The clever play on words, with the crowd chanting “No one mourns the Wicked” juxtaposed against Ariana Grande’s poignant delivery of “No, one mourns the Wicked,” highlights the dual meanings beautifully. As Glinda’s high notes pierce through the air, they elevate the narrative, reflecting the complexity of emotions as the story begins to unfold.
“I’m Not That Girl” – Cynthia Erivo: A Heartfelt Expression of Unrequited Love
This song captures the bittersweet essence of unrequited love—a feeling we have all experienced at some point in our lives. It serves as a gentle yet powerful ballad that allows Cynthia Erivo to showcase the multifaceted nature of her character, Elphaba, before she embarks on her iconic journey of self-discovery and empowerment in “Defying Gravity.” The emotional depth of this piece resonates with anyone who has navigated the complexities of love, making it a standout moment in the soundtrack.
“One Short Day” – A Celebration of Friendship with Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, and the Wicked Cast
This catchy frenemy anthem is taking the internet by storm, becoming a viral sensation thanks to its duet potential and TikTok dance craze featuring Galinda and her Shiz crew. It’s no surprise that this track is now a staple in countless Reels and TikTok videos, capturing the creativity and fun of its catchy melody.
Daniel Mercer
