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

Ol’ Man RiverJerome Kern／Oscar Hammerstein II,

Ol’ Man River

From the 1927 musical Show Boat by Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II—who produced numerous masterpieces that have gone down in American music history—we present a moving song.

Set against the timeless flow of the Mississippi River and told from the perspective of Black laborers, this piece is a weighty ballad steeped in elements of spirituals and the blues.

Its pentatonic melody unfolds at a leisurely tempo, symbolically expressing life’s hardships and hopes.

Premiering in December 1927 at New York’s Ziegfeld Theatre, the work was later adapted into films in 1936 and 1951; in particular, Paul Robeson’s deep bass rendition captured the hearts of many.

It is a classic that ranked 24th on the American Film Institute’s list of the 100 Greatest Songs in American Movies.

Lot’s WifeTonya Pinkins

Lot’s Wife

A gem of a number from the Broadway musical Caroline, or Change, where grand dramatic expression meets overwhelming vocal power.

American performer Tonya Pinkins’s commanding expressiveness brilliantly colors the story’s climax, set in Louisiana in 1963.

The piece is included on the Original Broadway Cast Album released in June 2004, allowing listeners to savor the delicate musical world crafted by Tony Kushner and Jeanine Tesori.

Pinkins received such acclaim that she was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Actress that same year, and her performance at the 58th Tony Awards captivated the audience.

It’s the perfect song for anyone who wants to experience emotions welling up from deep within, or to feel the conflict between society and the individual through music.

The Phantom of the OperaGerard Butler, Emmy Rossum

The Phantom of the Opera

This is a song from The Phantom of the Opera, which has a large fan base, including a film adaptation and performances in Japan by Shiki Theatre Company.

It’s a beautiful duet between the masked Phantom and the chorus girl Christine.

The ominous sound of the pipe organ, combined with Christine’s beautiful voice and astounding high notes, brings out the atmosphere of the song and the story’s world.

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Some Enchanted EveningRichard Rodgers／ Oscar Hammerstein II

‘Some Enchanted Evening’ from SOUTH PACIFIC (1958)

A masterpiece that shines brilliantly in Broadway musical history, this love ballad by the golden duo Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein, created in 1949, is a gem that portrays a fateful encounter and the universality of love.

Its rich melody and poetic lyrics quietly resonate in the listener’s heart.

At its premiere, Ezio Pinza captivated audiences with his resonant voice, and in the same year Perry Como reached No.

1 on the Billboard chart while Bing Crosby climbed to No.

3, propelling the song to swift popularity.

It drew renewed attention with the 1958 film adaptation and has continued to be covered by illustrious artists such as Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand.

An eternal classic loved across generations, it’s a song to cherish in life’s special moments or during a tranquil evening.

Beat ItMichael Jackson

‘MJ the Musical’ Cast Performs ‘Beat It’

A signature song by Michael Jackson that carries a social message to show strength without resorting to violence.

It was released in November 1982 and later included on the landmark album Thriller.

Eddie Van Halen’s guitar solo is unforgettable, too.

In 2021, it was performed at the opening of the Michael Jackson musical, cementing its status as an important track that explores Michael’s music and life.

It’s a recommended song when you want to blow off stress or boost your confidence.