Famous songs recommended for musical beginners

Beauty and the Beast — Be Our GuestAlan Menken

Beauty and the Beast Broadway OST – 12 – Be Our Guest

The dazzlingly lively “Be Our Guest,” where dishes and candles dance in splendor, is also well known as “Hitoribocchi no Bansankai.” Among the songs featured in the musical Beauty and the Beast, it’s recognized as one of the most impactful numbers.

In addition to the ensemble’s chorus, the servants’ costumes on stage are a highlight to watch.

It’s also a great one to enjoy with parents and kids!

Les Misérables — I Dreamed a DreamClaude-Michel Schönberg

Les Misérables (2012) – I Dreamed A Dream Scene (1/10) | Movieclips

A young girl who once cherished pure dreams and ideals is buffeted by fate and driven to the brink of despair—her heart’s cry rendered in a beautifully heartrending melody in this gem of a ballad.

Since its Paris premiere in 1980, the piece has been continually covered by many artists; in the 2012 film Les Misérables, Anne Hathaway performed it, earning her an Academy Award.

It is a song that resonates deeply with anyone who has known life’s hardships and setbacks, and with those who treasure sincerity and purity of feeling.

Cats ~ MemoryElaine Paige

Memory – Elaine Paige (from Cats )

The musical Cats is one of the works that achieved major worldwide box-office success.

The score was composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, who has created many musical numbers.

“Memory,” sung with heartrending emotion by Grizabella, an aging former glamour cat, is arguably the most moving song in the show.

The Phantom of the Opera — The Music of the NightAndrew Lloyd Webber

The Music Of The Night (From ‘The Phantom Of The Opera’ Motion Picture)

The Phantom of the Opera, a novel by the French author Gaston Leroux.

Based on real events that occurred at the Paris Opera in the 19th century, the work is also known as the source material for musicals and films.

“The Music of the Night” is a tender, romantic song sung by the Phantom—the titular Opera Ghost—to Christine, the object of his affection.

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The Lion King — Circle of LifeElton John

The Lion King – Circle of Life | Musical Awards Gala 2018

The Lion King is beloved not only as a Disney production but also as a staple in Japan’s Shiki Theatre Company repertoire.

Its opening number, Circle of Life, is cherished worldwide as the song that symbolizes the work.

The music was composed by the world-renowned singer-songwriter Elton John.

The song was even nominated for a Grammy Award! Knowing this history makes it sound all the more captivating.

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The Greatest Showman — This Is MeKeala Settle

The Greatest Showman Cast – This Is Me (Official Lyric Video)

A song that resonates with a message of courage to speak to the world and pride in the “true self” everyone possesses.

Released by Atlantic Records in October 2017, it won Best Original Song at the 75th Golden Globe Awards.

As part of the soundtrack for the film The Greatest Showman, it became beloved worldwide and was a massive hit, reaching a peak of No.

3 in the UK.

Celebrating the strength to stand up to prejudice and discrimination and the importance of accepting oneself, this heartwarming track supports everyone who wishes to live authentically.

RENT – Seasons of LoveJonathan Larson

Seasons of Love (From the Motion Picture RENT)

A song from the Broadway musical Rent, which is based on Puccini’s opera La Bohème.

The musical tells the story of young people facing various challenges, such as being unable to pay their rent.

This song also makes a strong impression as the opening in the film version.

Centered on the theme of “a year,” it’s a piece that reminds us of the importance of everyday moments.

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