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?
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Classic songs recommended for musical beginners (31–40)
A Chorus Line — OneA Chorus Line Cast
A Chorus Line premiered on stage in 1975 and was adapted into a film in 1985.
The renowned actor Michael Douglas serves as the producer, and his former lover, Cassie—who comes to audition—is played by Alyson Reed.
The song One is a piece you can still hear today, including in commercials.
Grease — Love Duet (You’re the One That I Want)John Travolta & Olivia Newton John
A high school girl (played by Olivia Newton-John), who used to be a straight-A student, transforms into a fully sexy woman! Travolta is stunned by her, and then the two sing, “You’re the one that I want.” It’s the youth of 1950s America.
Man of La Mancha — The Impossible DreamPeter O’Toole
A musical film in which the great British actor Peter O’Toole appears as Don Quixote.
The original work is a novel by the Spanish writer Cervantes.
In Japan as well, Kōshirō Matsumoto has long played the role of Don Quixote on stage.
“The Impossible Dream” is a renowned song that can be considered the film’s main theme.
The Band Wagon — Dancing in the DarkMGM Studio Orchestra
A young Cyd Charisse strolling through a park at night, and Fred Astaire, already entering middle age.
The highlight is Astaire’s exquisitely refined dance as he escorts Charisse.
Playing in the background of the scene where the two dance with feather-light steps is “Dancing in the Dark.”
Chicago ~ Nowadays (Finale)Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones
It’s a musical well known in Japan as the work in which Ryoko Yonekura made her Broadway debut.
The setting is Chicago in the 1920s.
The story unfolds around the world of show business and centers on Roxie, who dreams of success there, and Velma, the star she admires.
“Nowadays” is the number performed in the finale, sung in the scene where Roxie and Velma stand together on stage.