Hit Broadway with this Wicked good playlist

The theater has and always will be a popular form of entertainment for all. Musicals, in particular, have become one of the most beloved form of theater. The songs from musicals are fun, vibrant and deeply moving. They bring characters to life and steal our hearts. From Wicked to Westside Story, here are 10 choice selections that create the perfect Broadway playlist.

1. “Seasons of Love” – Rent

As one of the most inspiring songs on the list, “Seasons of Love” will forever be a classic. Of course nothing will ever beat the original with Idina Menzel and company, but the legacy of this classic show and its poignant societal criticisms is a great listen at any time.

2. “Defying Gravity” – Wicked

Another moment of Idina Menzel glory is found in this truly beautiful song. A story of triumph, love and breaking down barriers is perfectly summed up in this stunning ballad. As the show with maybe one of the strongest scores of songs, Wicked‘s true gem is “Defying Gravity” — it will make you cry, smile and get goosebumps all at the same time.

3. “Can you feel the love tonight?” – The Lion King

I’m slightly biased, considering the fact that The Lion King is one of my favorites of all time, but this love duet is truly a classic. Dynamic and emotional this song transcends the Disney version when performed live and is a perfect listen for a feel good song.

4. “You Can’t Stop the Beat” – Hairspray

We all remember a lovely dark-haired Zac Efron as Link Larkin in the big-budget Hairspray movie a few years ago, but besides the hunky heartthrob, Hairspray’s real gem is this upbeat dance tune. As a closing number, it’s fun and full of life as it rocks the ’60s beat. If you know the show, you can picture the full-cast performance that becomes the highlight of the whole show. Whether it’s live or on your iPod, this song is perfect to sing (and dance) along to.

5. “On My Own” – Les Miserables

Though this is one of the lesser known Les Mis songs, the original, performed by Lea Salonga, is truly haunting. For anyone experiencing unrequited love, this song will be a truly emotional experience. Heartbreakingly beautiful, this song is great for a rainy day.

6. “America” – West Side Story

Inspired by the saucy Puerto Rican aspect of the story, “America” is an incredibly fun tune. Full of Latin flair and a cha-cha-style melody, this song just makes you want to dance.

7. “The Music of the Night” – Phantom of the Opera

This might be one of the most epic songs of all time. Orchestrally, it is remarkable, full of brilliant lines and ascending emotional dynamic. No matter if you like the operatic style of the show or not, you have to listen to this song at some point because it truly is a musical masterpiece.

8. “Do-Re-Mi” – The Sound of Music

This song just makes me think of my childhood. A wonderful, upbeat, lively song, it reminds me of all innocence. Its also probably one of the most iconic songs of all the musicals as it has been used in various other platforms. It’s and oldie but a goodie and deserves another listen (or two).

9. “If I Can’t Love Her” – Beauty and the Beast

A song that was left out in the Disney adaptation, this one might be one of the best male solo songs for the stage. A beautiful look into a wounded soul looking for love, this song changes the narrative of the whole story by revealing the Beast’s touchingly human side. A soft and sensitive song, this is one of the tops on this list.

10. “Mama Who Bore Me” – Spring Awakening

This show happens to be one of the darkest yet most interesting I’ve ever seen. It tells the plight of a confused group of teens through folk-infused rock songs. This tune in particular, originally performed by Lea Michele, is haunting and eerie. One listen to it will bring on chills and a whole rollercoaster ride of emotions.