Stunning Performances Abound On ‘Wicked: The Soundtrack’

The film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical Wicked is taking the world by storm with its heartfelt themes, amazing cinematography and, of course, outstanding musical selections. A prequel to The Wizard Of Oz, the plot follows Oz’s Wicked Witch, played by GRAMMY, Tony and Emmy winner Cynthia Erivo, and the Good Witch, portrayed by pop princess Ariana Grande, before Dorothy arrives. The film’s accompanying soundtrack, Wicked: The Soundtrack, beautifully tells the story of the characters and allows listeners to experience the big screen magic through its 12 tracks featuring music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz.

The opening number “No One Mourns The Wicked” tells the story of Elphaba (Erivo) after her death. Glinda (Grande) sings with operatic touches and high notes galore about the Wicked Witch who was once her best friend, as the townspeople rejoice that Elphaba has died. This song is one of Grande’s best vocal moments in the film.

Moving along into the bulk of the story, which is told in flashback, next comes “Dear Old Shiz” sung by Glinda and the cast. This song introduces listeners to Shiz University, the college Glinda and Elphaba both attended.

“The Wizard And I” is yet another standout track as Erivo truly makes the song hers. Madame Morrible the Dean of Sorcery, played by Michelle Yeoh, has just discovered Elphaba’s powers and even mentioned she would tell The Wizard. Elphaba sings about meeting The Wizard one day, expressing her excitement and enthusiasm about the potential collaboration. Erivo’s vocals are downright stunning.

At this point in the story, Glinda uses her popularity to make Elphaba’s life at Shiz worse. The two unite on “What Is This Feeling?” where they share their loathing for one another. The catchy upbeat tune has a comedic element to it and the choreography from this scene has even gone viral. “Dancing Through Life” is another fun number that introduces listeners to the main love interest, Jonathan Bailey’s Fiyero, who eventually takes a liking to both Elphaba and Glinda.

“Popular” is another highlight for Grande’s Glinda, and her first solo song on the soundtrack. She nails her vocals and comedic timing in this scene as Glinda attempts to give Elphaba a makeover since they are now friends. Another memorable performance from Elphaba follows on “I’m Not That Girl.” The gentleness of her voice speaks to the song’s mood and tone perfectly. In both songs, Grande and Erivo make minor changes — modulations in “Popular” and Erivo’s runs and riffs in “I’m Not That Girl” — that feel even more personal and true to the characters.

“One Short Day” features Ariana and Cynthia with Kristen Chenoweth and Idina Menzel, the original Glinda and Elphaba who debuted the roles on Broadway in 2003. Their surprise cameos make this track worth listening to as they appear in the film as actresses in a play that Glinda and Elphaba see once they make it to the Emerald City. 

What is arguably the most popular song from the Broadway musical and the film, “Defying Gravity,” closes out the movie. Erivo captivates and completely captures the emotion of the track. The infamous battle cry at the song’s end is something unique to her version and has made waves online as people try to emulate it. Closing out the film with a bang, Elphaba and Glinda part ways after Elphaba decides to flee the Emerald City and save the animals. This song is a perfect anthem for many who relate to Elphaba’s story and character.

The soundtrack to Wicked’s film adaptation had many standout moments and songs that’ll make you laugh, dance or even cry. The actors brought raw emotion to each song and told the story of the characters through every note and lyric. If you haven’t seen the film, it’s a must to experience the magic as you listen and watch on the big screen. But for those who have given the film a watch (or two or three), this soundtrack keeps the story from the movie alive so you can relive it over and over. The good news for everyone is that more magic and more music are on the horizon with the sequel Wicked: For Good scheduled for release in November 2025.

Various Artists Wicked: The Soundtrack [Amazon][Apple Music][TIDAL]