Popular Lyrics - Wicked

Popular Lyrics

Popular

GALINDA
(spoken) Elphie - now that we're friends, I've decided to
make you my new project.

ELPHABA
(spoken) You really don't have to do that

GALINDA
(spoken) I know. That's what makes me so nice!
(sung) Whenever I see someone
Less fortunate than I
(And let's face it - who isn't
Less fortunate than I?)
My tender heart
Tends to start to bleed
And when someone needs a makeover
I simply have to take over
I know I know exactly what they need
And even in your case
Tho' it's the toughest case I've yet to face
Don't worry - I'm determined to succeed
Follow my lead
And yes, indeed
You will be:

Popular!
You're gonna be popular!
I'll teach you the proper ploys
When you talk to boys
Little ways to flirt and flounce
I'll show you what shoes to wear
How to fix your hair
Everything that really counts

To be popular
I'll help you be popular!
You'll hang with the right cohorts
You'll be good at sports
Know the slang you've got to know
So let's start
'Cause you've got an awfully long way to go:

Don't be offended by my frank analysis
Think of it as personality dialysis
Now that I've chosen to be come a pal, a
Sister and adviser
There's nobody wiser
Not when it comes to popular -
I know about popular
And with an assist from me
To be who you'll bee
Instead of dreary who-you-were: are:
There's nothing that can stop you
From becoming popular

La la la la
We're gonna make
You popular

When I see depressing creatures
With unprepossessing features
I remind them on their own behalf
To think of
Celebrated heads of state or
Specially great communicators
Did they have brains or knowledge?
Don't make me laugh!

They were popular! Please -
It's all about popular!
It's not about aptitude
It's the way you're viewed
So it's very shrewd to be
Very very popular
Like me!

(spoken) Why, Miss Elphaba, look at you. You're beautiful.

ELPHABA
(spoken) I - I have to go:

GALINDA
(spoken) You're welcome!
(sung) And though you protest
Your disinterest
I know clandestinely
You're gonna grin and bear it
Your new found popularity
La la la la
You'll be popular -
Just not as quite as popular
As me!


Song Details and Overview

Wicked, "Popular" lyrics
Scene from the musical 'Wicked' featuring the song "Popular".
  • Featuring Artist: Kristin Chenoweth
  • Producer: Stephen Schwartz
  • Writer: Stephen Schwartz
  • Release Date: December 16, 2003
  • Album: *Wicked (Original Broadway Cast Recording)*
  • Musical Genre: Broadway, Musical Theater
  • Language: English
  • Mood: Humorous, Upbeat, Satirical

Exploring the Meaning of Popular

Popular, performed by Kristin Chenoweth in the role of Glinda (then Galinda), is a comedic number from the hit Broadway musical Wicked. The song highlights Glinda's lighthearted and superficial worldview as she attempts to give Elphaba (the future Wicked Witch of the West) a makeover. It serves as a satirical commentary on societal expectations and the pursuit of popularity.

Meaning and Interpretation

Scene from 'Popular' in Wicked
Glinda giving Elphaba a makeover during 'Popular' in Wicked.
In the musical 'Wicked,' 'Popular' is performed by Glinda, portrayed by Kristin Chenoweth, during the first act. The song captures Glinda's attempt to transform her roommate, Elphaba, into a more socially accepted and 'popular' individual. Glinda, embodying the quintessential popular girl, believes that by teaching Elphaba the art of popularity—such as fashion choices, social behaviors, and conversational tactics—she can help her gain acceptance in their society. The song's lyrics are intentionally superficial, reflecting Glinda's shallow understanding of popularity. Lines like "It's not about aptitude, it's the way you're viewed" highlight the emphasis on outward appearances over genuine qualities. The upbeat, bubblegum pop style of the song contrasts with the deeper themes of the musical, underscoring the triviality of Glinda's perspective on popularity. Throughout the performance, Glinda's actions are filled with comedic physicality, including exaggerated hair tosses and playful dance moves, emphasizing her bubbly and self-assured personality. This not only adds humor to the scene but also showcases the stark contrast between Glinda's and Elphaba's characters—one being lighthearted and concerned with social status, the other being serious and focused on deeper issues.

Songs with Similar Themes

Thumbnail from 'Popular' performance in Wicked
A moment from 'Popular' capturing Glinda's attempt to teach Elphaba about popularity.
  1. 'Pumped Up Kicks' by Foster the People: This song delves into the darker side of popularity, focusing on a troubled youth who feels marginalized and envisions gaining attention through violent means. The catchy tune juxtaposes with the serious subject matter, prompting listeners to reflect on the pressures and consequences of seeking popularity. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
  2. 'We Are Young' by Fun featuring Janelle Monáe: This track captures the reckless abandon often associated with youth and the desire to be seen and acknowledged. It touches on themes of camaraderie, the fleeting nature of youth, and the lengths individuals go to feel important and included. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
  3. 'Royals' by Lorde: This song critiques the glorification of luxury and high status in popular culture. Lorde reflects on her own outsider status and rejects the notion that wealth and fame are the ultimate goals, offering a counter-narrative to traditional ideas of popularity.

Questions and Answers

What is the significance of Glinda's character singing 'Popular'?
Glinda's performance of 'Popular' serves to highlight her superficial understanding of acceptance and the societal emphasis on outward appearances. It also sets up a contrast between her character and Elphaba's, who values authenticity over conformity.
How does 'Popular' contribute to the overall narrative of 'Wicked'?
The song provides insight into Glinda's character and her initial shallow worldview. It also marks a pivotal moment in her relationship with Elphaba, as it showcases Glinda's attempt to mold Elphaba into someone she's not, which is a recurring theme in their evolving friendship.
Why does Stephen Schwartz incorporate a bubblegum pop style for 'Popular'?
The lighthearted, catchy style of 'Popular' contrasts with the more serious themes of the musical, emphasizing the triviality of Glinda's concerns about social status and appearance. This musical choice enhances the satirical commentary on the concept of popularity.

Awards and Chart Positions

While 'Popular' itself was not released as a standalone single and therefore did not chart independently, the 'Wicked' Original Cast Recording album, featuring 'Popular,' achieved significant success. The album reached number one on the Billboard Cast Albums chart and has been certified multi-platinum, reflecting its enduring popularity among audiences.

Fan and Media Reactions

Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda in Wicked
Kristin Chenoweth's portrayal of Glinda during 'Popular' has been widely praised.
'Popular' has been lauded by both fans and critics for its catchy melody, witty lyrics, and Kristin Chenoweth's standout performance. Audiences often highlight the song as a memorable and entertaining moment in the musical, appreciating its humor and the insight it provides into Glinda's character. The playful nature of the song, combined with Chenoweth's dynamic delivery, has made it a favorite among 'Wicked' enthusiasts and a standout number in musical theater.

Quotes

“It's not about aptitude; it’s the way you’re viewed.”
Glinda’s humorous philosophy on what defines popularity.
“Don’t be offended by my frank analysis. Think of it as personality dialysis.”
Glinda’s tongue-in-cheek explanation of her intent to “help” Elphaba.


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Musical: Wicked. Song: Popular. Broadway musical soundtrack lyrics. Song lyrics from theatre show/film are property & copyright of their owners, provided for educational purposes