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Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth Share Their Favorite Wicked Songs
Nov
In celebration of the highly anticipated Wicked film adaptation’s release, Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, the original Broadway stars of Elphaba and Glinda, reflected on their favorite songs from the iconic musical. During a conversation with the film’s stars, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the legendary duo revealed surprising picks that go beyond their own signature performances. Below, we dive into their song choices and how these pieces resonate with both the actors and the legacy of Wicked.
Idina Menzel: A Soft Spot for “Thank Goodness”
Despite being the voice behind Elphaba’s powerful anthems, Idina Menzel confessed that her favorite song is not one of her own. Instead, she chose “Thank Goodness,” a second-act number led by Glinda. Menzel explained, “I love all the Elphaba songs, of course, but when you’re doing it eight shows a week, you [start to love the songs that aren’t yours].” Her appreciation highlights the beauty and complexity of the Wicked score beyond her own celebrated solos like “Defying Gravity.”
Menzel’s pick reflects the multifaceted storytelling of Wicked. “Thank Goodness” reveals Glinda’s inner turmoil beneath her bubbly exterior, showcasing Stephen Schwartz’s ability to give emotional depth to every character. The song’s layered themes and nuanced delivery make it a standout moment in the show, even for those who originated different roles.
Kristin Chenoweth: The Heartbreak of “I’m Not That Girl”
For Kristin Chenoweth, the song that resonates most deeply is Elphaba’s poignant ballad, “I’m Not That Girl.” Although Glinda reprises a version of the song later in the musical, Chenoweth’s admiration goes beyond her own involvement. She explained, “‘I’m Not That Girl’ is my favorite.” Her connection to the piece speaks to its universal themes of longing and unfulfilled love.
Chenoweth’s choice underscores the emotional impact of Wicked. The simple, heart-wrenching melody of “I’m Not That Girl” contrasts with the show’s grandiose numbers, offering an intimate moment that strikes a chord with audiences. For Chenoweth, this ballad encapsulates the vulnerability that defines Wicked’s most touching moments.
The Legacy of Wicked’s Music
The enduring popularity of Wicked lies in its ability to balance spectacle with heartfelt storytelling, a quality reflected in both Menzel’s and Chenoweth’s favorite songs. While numbers like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular” have become cultural touchstones, pieces like “Thank Goodness” and “I’m Not That Girl” remind fans of the quieter, more introspective moments that make the musical so impactful.
Composer Stephen Schwartz’s work continues to resonate across generations, blending intricate melodies with lyrics that delve into themes of friendship, ambition, and self-discovery. As the Wicked film adaptation introduces these songs to a broader audience, their emotional resonance is sure to remain timeless.
Connecting Past and Present Performances
As Menzel and Chenoweth reminisce about their time on Broadway, their conversation with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande highlights how the next generation of performers interprets these iconic roles. Erivo, who plays Elphaba in the film, shared her own connection to the music, noting her public performance of Glinda’s “Thank Goodness” before auditioning for Elphaba. Grande’s attention to detail, correcting the Wicked social media account on the lyrics to “Popular,” underscores the care with which the new cast approaches their roles.
This dialogue between the original and film cast exemplifies the enduring spirit of Wicked. As new interpretations emerge, they honor the foundation laid by Menzel and Chenoweth while bringing fresh perspectives to these beloved characters.
Why Wicked’s Music Endures
The revelations from Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth underscore why Wicked remains a global phenomenon two decades after its Broadway debut. The music transcends individual performances, resonating with audiences through its exploration of universal themes. Songs like “Thank Goodness” and “I’m Not That Girl” serve as reminders that Wicked is more than just a spectacle—it’s a deeply human story of hope, heartbreak, and the power of friendship.
As the film adaptation prepares to introduce the magic of Wicked to a new generation, these musical moments will undoubtedly continue to inspire, reminding fans old and new why they fell in love with Oz in the first place.
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