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Famous songs recommended for musical beginners

“Musicals seem a bit intimidating…” Do you ever feel that way?

In fact, the world of musicals is full of timeless songs that almost everyone has heard at least once.

From the passionate dance numbers performed in the rain, to heart-wrenching love songs that resonate deep within, to choral pieces that illuminate grand stories—the magical world woven by music and performance is sure to captivate you.

This time, we’ll introduce a selection of gems that even newcomers to musicals can enjoy.

Why not open the door to the wonderful world of musicals yourself?

Classic songs recommended for musical beginners (11–20)

RENT – Seasons of LoveJonathan Larson

Seasons of Love (From the Motion Picture RENT)
RENT – Seasons of LoveJonathan Larson

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.

The Sound of Music — Do-Re-MiRichard Rodgers

This is a gem of a classic that warmly portrays how music opens children’s hearts.

Crafted by American composer Richard Rodgers to make learning the basics of the musical scale fun, the song was born in 1959 as part of the Broadway musical The Sound of Music.

Julie Andrews’s performance in the 1965 film adaptation is etched deeply in the hearts of people around the world.

In the English version, the choice of words aligned with the scale is exquisite, and in Japan, Peggy Hayama’s Japanese version—which aired on NHK’s Minna no Uta in April 1961—has been loved by many for its friendly, accessible lyrics.

It’s a song you can enjoy singing together with family and friends.

Annie — TomorrowAileen Quinn

Annie is a work that has been performed on stage in Japan in Japanese.

The stage production from Broadway was adapted into a film as the 1982 movie Annie, and a remake was released in 2014.

Tomorrow is a song with a melody line you can’t forget once you’ve heard it.

Diana (DIANA) ~ The World Fell in LoveDavid Bryan

“The World Fell in Love” – Diana: The Musical
Diana (DIANA) ~ The World Fell in LoveDavid Bryan

Created by David Bryan, this piece is one of the most striking songs in the musical DIANA.

In this work depicting the life of Princess Diana, it captures the moment she won the hearts of people around the world.

Its sweeping melody and moving lyrics beautifully convey Diana’s appeal and influence, resonating deeply with listeners.

Premiering in 2021, it was also staged on Broadway.

It’s a highly recommended track for those interested in stories about captivating figures and for music fans seeking an emotional song.

School of Rock ~ If only you would listenAndrew Lloyd Webber

A song that colors a moving story filled with dreams and passion.

Its gentle melody, which tenderly embraces the worries and wishes of children, resonates deeply with audiences.

The piece delicately portrays the earnest desire for parents and teachers to understand their feelings.

This song, featured in the musical based on the film “School of Rock,” was nominated for four Tony Awards in 2016 and won the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Musical.

It’s a recommended track for anyone looking to bridge the emotional distance between adults and children.

Les Misérables ~ Do You Hear the People Sing?Les Misérables Cast

A musical based on Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables.

Its stage premiere was held in London in 1985.

The film adaptation was released in 2012, directed by Tom Hooper.

Hugh Jackman played the lead role of Jean Valjean, showcasing his outstanding singing ability.

Must-Listen Musical Classics for Beginners (21–30)

The Producers ~ I Wanna Be a ProducerMel Brooks

Down-on-his-luck producer Max and accountant Leo scheme to strike it rich by staging a deliberately terrible musical.

That’s the brilliant comedy The Producers.

It’s so comically over-the-top that no one could dislike its story.

“I Wanna Be a Producer” is a song in which, amid the tedium of life as an accountant, he sings about his dream of making it on Broadway.