[2026] Iconic musical numbers: from the latest releases to timeless classics!

Le bien qui fait malMozart Opera Rock

Mozart Opera Rock – Le bien qui fait mal (Clip officiel)

Rock Opera Mozart is a French-made musical that fuses rock and opera.

Centered on Mozart—who displayed his extraordinary musical talent to the fullest within his short 35-year life—and Salieri, the Kapellmeister of the Viennese court who resents Mozart’s fame, the story unfolds around these two figures.

The title of this song means “Pain Is the Truth,” and it is performed by Salieri after he witnesses Mozart’s playing firsthand.

Not only the music but also the stagecraft—such as choreography and lighting—is meticulously crafted, so please enjoy it together with the video.

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HATSUMI

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Circle of LifeElton John

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

It’s no exaggeration to say that “Circle of Life” is one of the most famous songs in musical history.

Mention the opening number of The Lion King and everyone knows what you mean.

In Japan, the Shiki Theatre Company’s production also made major headlines and remains fresh in people’s memories.

While “Circle of Life” is the signature song of The Lion King, it’s surprisingly not widely known that Elton John composed it.

The song was even nominated for a Grammy Award! Knowing this history can make it sound different when you listen to it, can’t it?

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UnderpressureQueen

Under Pressure – Queen – We Will Rock You Musical

We Will Rock You is a musical that makes lavish use of Queen’s legendary hits as numbers throughout the show.

It’s an SF story set in a future where rock no longer exists, following two young protagonists on the run.

The song used in the scene where the two leads meet is Under Pressure, the iconic duet between Freddie Mercury and his close friend David Bowie.

In the musical, you can enjoy it as a male–female duet! It’s so incredibly cool that it’s guaranteed to give you goosebumps.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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ElectricityBIlly Elliot the dancer

Electricity – Billy Elliot The Musical

A stage musical based on the hit film released in Japan under the title “Little Dancer.” Set in northern England, it portrays 11-year-old Billy charging toward his dream of becoming a ballet dancer.

This song is from the scene where, during his audition for a ballet school, the judges ask him, “How do you feel when you dance?” Billy can’t quite express it in words, but his feelings come through directly in the song.

And Billy’s dance after he finishes singing is a must-see!

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HATSUMI

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Dance in the gymnasium

West Side Story – Dance at the Gym – Tony Awards

A song from the musical West Side Story.

It has a great mambo groove—a number that dazzles with dance and movement.

The dancers’ shouts of “Mambo!” ring dramatically through the theater, making it a track that makes you want to get up and dance.

One night onlyDreamgirls

Amber Riley Dreamgirls One Night Only Savoy Theatre London

One Night Only, sung in the musical Dreamgirls.

It’s a powerful, moving number with a commanding performance.

This dramatic musical portrays the journey of American R&B singers as they make their way to success.

Darkness spreadsInoue Yoshio / Kiyomoto Taiga

[Yoshio Inoue × Taiga Kyomoto] / Darkness Spreads (Elisabeth) Compilation

The song that’s been performed on many music shows and gaining more fans is Yami ga Hirogaru (“The Darkness Spreads”).

It’s a number from the musical Elisabeth, which depicts the life of Empress Elisabeth.

I can’t say too much to avoid spoilers, but it plays a crucial role at the climax.

As you listen, try imagining what the “darkness” in the title signifies.

It’s also highly recommended for showcasing the vocal talents of Yoshio Inoue and Taiga Kyomoto.

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