Rank It: Songs from the "Wicked: Part 1" Soundtrack

“Wicked” has finally hit theaters, and it’s all anyone can talk about. If you’re anything like me, you haven’t stopped listening to the jaw-dropping soundtrack that accompanies the film.

The soundtrack masterfully reimagines the beloved classics from the original musical while introducing stunning new compositions and powerhouse performances. It beautifully captures the magic of Oz while offering fresh perspectives that redefine the story we thought we knew. The album is a feast for both longtime fans and newcomers.

Now that we’ve had time to fully immerse ourselves in this version of the music, it’s time for Madison Rush to attempt the impossible: rank the tracks from “Wicked: The Soundtrack.”

12 - “Ozdust Duet- Bonus Track”

I didn’t want to leave this off the list, but since it's just a standalone orchestral track, it’s destined for last place. It is a touching moment in the movie but doesn’t have the same magic without the visuals.

11- “Sentimental Man”

Jeff Goldblum is a national treasure, but this song? Not so much. It’s slow, a little dull, and feels like the official “bathroom break” anthem of the film.

I love you, Jeff, but I’m skipping this one.

10 - “Something Bad”

Peter Dinklage is out here working magic with just his voice and not getting nearly enough credit for it. His performance as Dr. Dillamond is heartfelt and full of quiet emotion.

This duet with Cynthia Erivo is stunning and their voices blend so beautifully, you almost forget how devastating the context of the song is, almost.

9 - “Dear Old Shiz”

This song gives the ensemble their time to shine, and it’s a lovely one. It sets the stage beautifully, but let’s be real—it’s not the track you’ll find yourself belting to in the car.

8 - “One Short Day”

This might be criminally low for some, especially with the features of the original Broadway cast, Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, but it is one I tend to forget about.

It hits the marks it needs to but doesn't leave the same lasting impression as the heavy hitters coming up.

7 - “I'm Not That Girl”

A very underrated song in my opinion.

This track is just a dagger to the heart every single time and Erivo delivers it with so much raw emotion, that makes it too relatable and achingly sad.

If only Elphaba had Beyoncé’s, “I’m That Girl” in Oz to remind her of how iconic she really is.

6 - “No One Mourns the Wicked”

Ariana Grande gives a vocal masterclass here, proving she was born for this role. Add in the powerful orchestral swells, and you have an emotional opener that perfectly sets the tone for the rest of the story.

5 - “Popular”

How do you even critique a song this iconic? It’s playful, bubbly, and endlessly quotable—what’s not to love? This one feels like pure joy wrapped in a song.

Grande adds some riffs in this track that remind you of the pop star she is and the updated outro with the modulations are such a fun addition that are constantly stuck in my head.

4 - “Defying Gravity”

It is the iconic anthem of the movie, and it doesn’t disappoint.

The film version includes some added dialogue, which can feel a little clunky when listening to the soundtrack, but Erivo’s final war cry makes you forget about all of that. It is so transcendent it might just send you into orbit.

3 - “Dancing Through Life”

Jonathan Bailey is effortlessly charming in this number, capturing Fiyero’s carefree spirit perfectly. It’s an absolute highlight and one I desperately need to learn the choreography for.

2 - “What Is This Feeling?”

This one shot up my rankings compared to the original musical, and honestly, I’m not mad about it one bit.

The chemistry and comedic timing between Erivo and Grande make this track an absolute delight and one I truly can not get off repeat.

1 - “The Wizard And I”

This has always been the standout for me, and Erivo nails it. Her youthful, hopeful take on Elphaba is heartbreaking, and the emotional weight of the lyrics makes it a masterpiece.

“But I swear, someday there’ll be a celebration throughout Oz / That’s all to do with me,” is, hands down, the most gut-wrenching lyric in the show.

And that final crescendo? Pure magic. It’s the moment of the soundtrack, no contest.

Madison Rush is a third-year majoring in public relations. To contact her, email mkr5957@psu.edu.