Broadway musicals have produced some of the most iconic and memorable songs in the history of music. These songs often showcase the incredible range and talent of the singers who perform them, from soaring ballads to fast-paced showstoppers. However, there are some Broadway songs that are particularly challenging for even the most skilled performers. These songs require not only incredible vocal range, but also complex lyrics, difficult rhythms, and intricate harmonies. In this article, we will explore some of the 20 hardest Broadway songs of all time. We will examine what makes each song challenging, and highlight some of the singers who have managed to conquer them. From classic shows like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera to more recent hits like Hamilton and The Great Comet, these songs represent the pinnacle of musical theatre performance. Whether you are a fan of Broadway, a singer yourself, or just interested in the art of musical theatre, this list is sure to impress and amaze you with the sheer talent and skill required to perform these songs at the highest level.
1. “Defying Gravity” by Wicked
“Defying Gravity” from the hit musical Wicked is a powerful and inspirational song that speaks to the human spirit’s desire for freedom and independence. Sung by the character Elphaba, the song is a declaration of her determination to defy the expectations placed upon her by society and follow her own path, no matter the cost. With soaring vocals, bold lyrics, and a catchy melody, “Defying Gravity” is a show-stopping anthem that has become a fan favorite and a symbol of the musical’s enduring popularity.
2. “Glitter and Be Gay” by Candide
“Glitter and Be Gay” from Leonard Bernstein’s Candide is a dazzling, satirical tour de force that showcases the singer’s virtuosity and comedic timing. Sung by the character Cunegonde, the song is a hilarious send-up of the trappings of wealth and status, as she laments her lost innocence while decked out in a glittering array of jewels. With witty lyrics, rapid-fire vocal runs, and a playful, operatic style, “Glitter and Be Gay” is a showstopper that has become a classic in the musical theater canon.
3. “Made of Stone” by The Hunchback of Notre Dame
“Made of Stone” from The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a hauntingly beautiful song that captures the emotional turmoil of the character Quasimodo. Sung with raw vulnerability, the song expresses Quasimodo’s feelings of isolation and his longing to connect with the world outside of Notre Dame. With powerful lyrics, evocative melodies, and a rich orchestral accompaniment, “Made of Stone” is a moving exploration of the human condition that resonates with audiences long after the final note.
4. “The Phantom of the Opera” by The Phantom of the Opera
“The Phantom of the Opera” from the musical of the same name is a grand, operatic showstopper that showcases the vocal prowess of the character the Phantom. With soaring high notes, dramatic sweeps, and a haunting melody, the song is a seductive invitation into the Phantom’s world of passion, obsession, and darkness. With its memorable hook and lush orchestration, “The Phantom of the Opera” has become an iconic anthem of musical theater and a beloved favorite of audiences worldwide.
5. “Gethsemane” by Jesus Christ Superstar
“Gethsemane” from Jesus Christ Superstar is a powerful, emotionally charged song that explores the inner turmoil of the character Jesus in the final hours before his crucifixion. Sung with intense passion and vulnerability, the song expresses Jesus’ doubts, fears, and struggles with his impending fate. With its soaring vocals, dramatic shifts in tempo and tone, and evocative lyrics, “Gethsemane” is a tour de force that showcases the character’s complexity and humanity, and has become a classic in the musical theater canon.
6. “Bring Him Home” by Les Misérables
“Bring Him Home” from Les Misérables is a poignant and heartfelt song that showcases the vocal and emotional range of the character Jean Valjean. With a simple yet powerful melody and lyrics, the song expresses Valjean’s hopes and prayers for the safety and well-being of the young revolutionary Marius. With its tender and heartfelt delivery, “Bring Him Home” has become a beloved favorite of musical theater fans and a moving reminder of the power of love and compassion in the face of adversity.
7. “Rainbow High” by Evita
“Rainbow High” from Evita is a bold and triumphant song that captures the ambition and confidence of the character Eva Perón. With its soaring vocals, fiery lyrics, and Latin-inspired melody, the song is a defiant declaration of Eva’s determination to succeed and rise to the top. With its memorable hook and bold instrumentation, “Rainbow High” has become a beloved anthem of female empowerment and a testament to the enduring legacy of the real-life icon it portrays.
8. “Guns and Ships” by Hamilton
“Guns and Ships” from Hamilton is a high-energy, rapid-fire rap battle that showcases the wit and cunning of the character Lafayette. With lightning-fast rhymes and a propulsive beat, the song is a dizzying display of wordplay and verbal dexterity that leaves audiences breathless. With its blend of historical detail and contemporary musical style, “Guns and Ships” has become a standout number in the groundbreaking musical and a favorite of fans for its infectious energy and memorable lyrics.
9. “I Read” by Passion
“I Read” from Stephen Sondheim’s Passion is a hauntingly beautiful song that captures the obsessive, intellectual nature of the character Fosca. With its spare, ethereal instrumentation and evocative lyrics, the song expresses Fosca’s love of literature and the world of ideas. Sung with a delicate vulnerability and intimacy, “I Read” is a strikingly intimate and introspective moment in the musical that speaks to the power of words and the human spirit’s quest for connection and understanding.
10. “(Not) Getting Married Today” by Company
“(Not) Getting Married Today” from Company is a fast-paced, comedic tour de force that showcases the vocal and comedic talents of the character Amy. With its rapid-fire lyrics, complex rhymes, and frantic delivery, the song captures the character’s anxiety and doubts about getting married. With its catchy melody and hilarious wordplay, “(Not) Getting Married Today” has become a classic in the musical theater canon and a favorite of fans for its wit, humor, and sheer theatricality.
11. “Pity the Child” by Chess
“Pity the Child” from Chess is a powerful and moving song that tells the story of the character Freddie’s tragic childhood and his struggle to find love and acceptance. With its sweeping melody and emotional lyrics, the song is a showcase for the character’s pain and longing, as well as the soaring vocals of the performer. With its blend of rock, pop, and classical influences, “Pity the Child” has become a fan favorite for its theatricality and emotional impact.
12. “After Midnight Dies” by The Wild Party
“After Midnight Dies” from The Wild Party is a haunting and atmospheric song that captures the melancholy and despair of the characters Queenie and Burrs. With its moody instrumentation and evocative lyrics, the song is a testament to the power of love and the destructive forces that can tear it apart. With its beautiful melody and haunting harmonies, “After Midnight Dies” has become a beloved favorite of musical theater fans and a reminder of the power of passion and the consequences of our actions.
13. “So Much Better” by Legally Blonde
“So Much Better” from Legally Blonde is an upbeat and empowering song that celebrates the character Elle’s triumph over adversity. With its catchy melody and sassy lyrics, the song is a testament to the power of self-confidence and determination. Sung with energy and enthusiasm, “So Much Better” has become a fan favorite for its infectious energy and optimistic message, inspiring listeners to believe in themselves and their abilities.
14. “Memory” by Cats
“Memory” from Cats is a timeless classic that has become synonymous with the magic of musical theater. With its beautiful melody and poetic lyrics, the song expresses the bittersweet nostalgia and longing of the character Grizabella for her youth and past. Sung with raw emotion and vulnerability, “Memory” is a stirring reminder of the power of memory and the fleeting nature of time.
15. “Electricity” by Billy Elliot The Musical
“Electricity” from Billy Elliot The Musical is a powerful and uplifting song that captures the excitement and joy of discovery. With its energetic instrumentation and inspiring lyrics, the song is a testament to the transformative power of art and the importance of following one’s dreams. With its soaring vocals and exuberant energy, “Electricity” has become a beloved favorite of musical theater fans and a symbol of the power of imagination and self-expression.
16. “I’m Here” by The Color Purple
“I’m Here” from The Color Purple is a poignant and emotional song that celebrates the strength and resilience of the human spirit. With its soulful melody and powerful lyrics, the song is a testament to the character Celie’s journey of self-discovery and self-love. Sung with raw emotion and a sense of triumph, “I’m Here” has become a fan favorite for its empowering message and inspiring vocals.
17. “Satisfied” by Hamilton
“Satisfied” from Hamilton is a tour de force of storytelling and musical composition. With its intricate lyrics and inventive structure, the song retells the events of Hamilton’s courtship and marriage to Eliza from the perspective of her sister Angelica. Sung with passion and energy, “Satisfied” has become a fan favorite for its innovative approach to storytelling and its impressive vocal performances.
18. “Putting It Together” by Sunday In The Park With George
“Putting It Together” from Sunday In The Park With George is a witty and inventive song that explores the creative process of an artist. With its clever lyrics and playful melody, the song is a tribute to the joys and frustrations of making art. Sung with wit and charm, “Putting It Together” has become a beloved favorite of musical theater fans and a reminder of the power of creativity and imagination.
19. “Days and Days” by Fun Home
“Days and Days” from Fun Home is a haunting and emotional song that captures the pain and confusion of the character Alison as she comes to terms with her own sexuality and her father’s hidden desires. With its introspective melody and poetic lyrics, the song is a testament to the power of introspection and self-discovery. Sung with raw emotion and vulnerability, “Days and Days” has become a fan favorite for its honest and heartfelt depiction of a complex and difficult journey.
20. “Pierre and Anatole” by Great Comet
“Pierre and Anatole” from Great Comet is a thrilling and energetic song that captures the excitement and chaos of a wild night in Moscow. With its infectious melody and playful lyrics, the song is a tribute to the joy and excitement of living in the moment. Sung with enthusiasm and energy, “Pierre and Anatole” has become a beloved favorite of musical theater fans for its sense of fun and adventure.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
