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!
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Song Details and Overview
Featuring Artist: Kristin Chenoweth
Writer: Stephen Schwartz
Release Date: December 16, 2003
Album: Wicked (Original Broadway Cast Recording)
Language: English
Mood: Humorous, Upbeat, Satirical
Exploring the Meaning of Popular
"Popular," performed by Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda (then Galinda), is a comedic number from the hit Broadway musical Wicked. The song showcases Glinda’s superficial worldview as she attempts to give Elphaba (the future Wicked Witch of the West) a makeover. It humorously critiques societal expectations and the pursuit of popularity.
Song Composition and Performance
The song is playful, with an upbeat melody and clever lyrics. Kristin Chenoweth’s performance combines charm and humor, emphasizing Glinda’s bubbly personality. The structure includes conversational exchanges with Elphaba, giving the song a dynamic and entertaining rhythm.
Meaning and Annotations
In the spoken introduction, Glinda confidently decides to make Elphaba her "project," setting the tone for the song’s lighthearted message.
The first verse highlights Glinda’s self-assurance in her ability to transform others and her belief in her social superiority.
The chorus emphasizes the mechanics of popularity, focusing on fashion, behavior, and charm.
The bridge humorously cites historical figures, showing Glinda’s philosophy that popularity outweighs intellect.
The outro humorously reinforces Glinda’s vanity as she acknowledges that Elphaba’s newfound popularity will never rival her own.
Similar Songs
"Popular" is similar to other humorous, character-driven Broadway songs:
"Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend" from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes — a playful take on materialism and social norms.
"Master of the House" from Les Misérables — a self-centered anthem with humor and charm.
"You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile" from Annie — focuses on the importance of appearances.
"Gaston" from Beauty and the Beast — a satirical look at vanity and self-perception.
"Cell Block Tango" from Chicago — mixes humor with commentary on human behavior and expectations.
Quotes
"It's not about aptitude; it’s the way you’re viewed." – Glinda humorously defines the key to popularity.
"Don’t be offended by my frank analysis. Think of it as personality dialysis." – Glinda explains her intentions with playful humor.
Last Update: November, 22nd 2024