Wicked Broadway soundtrack: A complete guide to the setlist

Since its Broadway debut in 2003, Wicked has cast a lasting spell over audiences with its enchanting music, compelling characters, and reimagining of L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Composed by Stephen Schwartz with a book by Winnie Holzman, the musical explores the untold story of Elphaba, the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West, and her unlikely friendship with Glinda.

Wicked has won multiple Tony Awards and a Grammy Award for its original Broadway cast recording with grand orchestrations. Featuring powerhouse performances, soaring ballads, and lyrical storytelling, the show remains one of the most successful musicals in Broadway history.

🧙‍♀️Act I: The Beginning of a Friendship and a Feud

The first act of Wicked introduces the origins of Elphaba and Glinda’s relationship at Shiz University. As their personalities clash and bonds form, the story explores their individual aspirations, societal pressures, and the political turmoil brewing in Oz. Elphaba’s growing realization of her powers and the deception surrounding the Wizard ultimately lead to a dramatic turning point that sets her on a path of rebellion and self-discovery.

No One Mourns the Wicked

The show opens with the citizens of Oz celebrating the Wicked Witch’s demise. This triumphant choral piece sets the tone for the musical’s exploration of perception versus reality.

Dear Old Shiz

A nostalgic and brief reprise, introducing Shiz University, where Elphaba and Glinda first meet.

The Wizard and I

Elphaba’s first solo, filled with optimism and hope. The soaring melody reflects her dreams of meeting the Wizard and making a difference in Oz.

What Is This Feeling?

A comedic and playful duet between Elphaba and Glinda, expressing their immediate loathing for each other in a bouncy, exaggerated manner.

Something Bad

Dr. Dillamond, a talking goat and professor at Shiz, warns Elphaba about the sinister events happening in Oz. The ominous, minor-key melody hints at the political unrest in the land.

Dancing Through Life

Fiyero’s carefree philosophy set to a lively, jazz-infused number, encouraging his peers to live without worry. This song introduces the romantic entanglements of the show.

Popular

Glinda’s signature song, brimming with charm and humor. The upbeat, bubbly tune captures her efforts to give Elphaba a makeover and transform her into someone “popular.”

I’m Not That Girl

A poignant ballad in which Elphaba realizes her feelings for Fiyero but resigns herself to the belief that he belongs with Glinda.

One Short Day

A fast-paced, celebratory number as Elphaba and Glinda visit the Emerald City, marveling at its wonders.

A Sentimental Man

The Wizard sings a seemingly warm but subtly manipulative melody, expressing his desire to be loved by the people of Oz.

Defying Gravity

The act closes with one of the most iconic musical theatre songs of all time. This powerful anthem sees Elphaba embracing her destiny and rejecting the Wizard’s corruption. The climactic key change and soaring vocals make it an unforgettable showstopper.

🪄Act II: The Price of Power and Truth

The second act delves into the consequences of Elphaba’s defiance and the political machinations that label her as a villain. As Oz turns against her, relationships are tested, love is found and lost, and the lines between good and wicked blur. The act builds toward an emotional climax, culminating in a bittersweet ending that reshapes everything the audience thought they knew about Oz.

Thank Goodness

Glinda, now adored by the citizens of Oz, reflects on the cost of her newfound power in this layered, dramatic piece.

Wonderful

The Wizard tries to justify his actions with a charming yet deceptive song that blends elements of vaudeville and classic Broadway style.

I’m Not That Girl (Reprise)

Glinda, now understanding heartbreak, briefly reprises Elphaba’s earlier ballad in a moment of quiet realization.

As Long as You’re Mine

A passionate duet between Elphaba and Fiyero, expressing their deep love despite the dangers surrounding them.

No Good Deed

Elphaba, devastated by Fiyero’s capture, unleashes raw emotion in this dark and intense solo, vowing to embrace her wicked reputation.

March of the Witch Hunters

A dramatic, aggressive ensemble number as the citizens of Oz rally against Elphaba, fueled by fear and misinformation.

For Good

The emotional farewell between Elphaba and Glinda. This heartfelt ballad, with its intricate harmonies, highlights their deep and complicated friendship.

Finale (Reprise of No One Mourns the Wicked)

The story comes full circle as Oz continues to celebrate Elphaba’s downfall—unaware of the truth. The final moments provide a bittersweet conclusion, leaving audiences reflecting on the nature of good and evil.

🎶Musical Highlights & Signature Sounds

• Grammy Award Winner: The Wicked Original Broadway Cast Recording won Best Musical Show Album, solidifying its place as one of the best-selling musical theatre albums of all time.
• Tony Award for Best Actress: Idina Menzel’s powerhouse performance as Elphaba earned her the prestigious Tony Award, highlighting her vocal prowess and emotional depth.
• Iconic Broadway Anthem: Defying Gravity became a defining number in modern musical theatre, with its soaring orchestrations and climactic key change.
• Groundbreaking Orchestrations: Schwartz’s rich compositions, from the playful charm of Popular to the dark intensity of No Good Deed, showcase a stunning variety of musical styles.
• Emotional Storytelling: For Good delivers one of the most poignant duets in Broadway history, encapsulating the deep, complex friendship between Elphaba and Glinda.

The Wicked soundtrack is more than just a collection of songs—it’s an emotional journey that has captivated audiences for decades. From the uplifting power of Defying Gravity to the poignant farewell of For Good, each song weaves seamlessly into the fabric of the story, making it one of the most beloved and enduring scores in musical theatre history. Don’t miss your chance to experience the wonders of Wicked live on Broadway—Book your tickets and step into the Emerald City at the Gershwin Theater.