Top 10 Broadway Songs That Are More Famous Than the Show Itself

“Carousel”
If you’re a soccer fan, especially a Liverpool F.C. supporter, a Marcus Mumford stan, or familiar with Captain Tom Moore’s efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic, you’ve likely heard this song. But did you know it started in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical “Carousel?” It’s performed twice: first after Julie Jordan loses her husband in a failed robbery, and later at their daughter’s graduation. In between, Billy, her late husband, is given a chance to help their daughter, who’s become a social outcast, and earn his place in heaven. Over the years, the song has become a powerful anthem of resilience and hope, inspiring people everywhere to find strength, even in the hardest times.

“Babes in Arms”
This song has become such a musical benchmark that it’s almost easy to forget it debuted in Rodgers and Hart’s 1937 musical “Babes in Arms.” In the show, Val, a woman helping Long Island youths put on a show, sings about living life her own way, even if it goes against the grain. Since then, it’s been reimagined by legends like Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Sammy Davis Jr., and, of course, Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga. Fun fact: it supposedly inspired the title of Disney’s “Lady and the Tramp!” And it’s not the only “Babes in Arms” tune to break free from its Broadway roots, either! You’ll thank us when Valentine’s Day rolls around.

“Girl Crazy”
If the Gershwins made their mark anywhere, it’s with “I Got Rhythm.” Though originally written for the 1928 musical “Treasure Girl,” it officially debuted in the 1930 show “Girl Crazy.” This showstopper didn’t end there—it found new life in the 1951 movie “An American in Paris” and the 1992 musical “Crazy for You.” Since its release, it’s become a jazz standard, recorded by legends like Louis Armstrong, Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, and more. And why not? With its irresistible, uptempo melody, it’s a guaranteed toe-tapper. Whether you know it from Broadway, the silver screen, or jazz recordings, “I Got Rhythm” is pure joy—and really, who could ask for anything more?

“Porgy and Bess”
Composed by George Gershwin for “Porgy and Bess,” it quickly became an iconic piece of music, far outshining the opera in fame. It blends jazz, African-American folk rhythms, and a hauntingly simple melody that will move anyone who hears it. The song has inspired countless recordings by icons like Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, and Janis Joplin. Its influence goes far beyond the musical, connecting with musicians and listeners across genres. While “Porgy and Bess” is often considered a landmark in opera history, “Summertime” is the real breakout star, often ranked among the greatest American songs. You’ve probably heard it in movies, TV, and other live shows. Even if you don’t know the opera, you’ll know this classic.

“Fiddler on the Roof”
This show has produced several standout tracks, from “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” to “Sunrise, Sunset,” which are well-known beyond the musical world. But dreaming about what you’d do with more money isn’t just for musical theater fans. Even non-musical lovers can’t help but raise their arms, give a little shimmy, and join in on that “cantor-like chanting.” You can thank the original Broadway Tevye, Zero Mostel, for that! He supposedly reworked Sheldon Harnick and Jerry Bock’s ‘bidi-bidi-bum’ to better fit his character’s culture. In the show, Tevye the milkman sings about how different his life would be—well, it’s right there in the title. Like the other songs here, it’s been covered many times and was notably sampled in Gwen Stefani’s “Rich Girl” featuring Eve.

“Annie”
“Tomorrow” is one of those iconic songs from musical theater that everyone seems to know, even if they’ve never seen “Annie.” Its optimistic lyrics and catchy melody have made it a cultural touchstone for all ages. The message of resilience and hope resonates universally and is often quoted even outside the show. It’s a favorite to cover, whether by famous performers or talent show contestants. This song has been with many of us since childhood and holds a special place, no matter how we first heard it. Then there’s the flip side—“It’s a Hard Knock Life”—which inevitably springs to mind when faced with chores we really don’t want to do.

“Sweet Charity”
When you hear this song, you might think of Dame Shirley Bassey—it’s basically one of her signature tunes. Or perhaps you’re more familiar with Peggy Lee’s version. But theater fans know it actually comes from Cy Coleman’s 1966 musical “Sweet Charity.” It’s performed by the taxi dancers of the Fandango Ballroom quite early on in the show as we see them strut their stuff for their customers. Since then, it’s been covered and parodied endlessly, popping up in “The Simpsons,” “SNL,” and “Schmigadoon!” Even Queen performed it! If you haven’t seen it in its original context, it’s worth a watch. The performance isn’t just vocally stunning—Bob Fosse’s choreography takes it to another level.

“Hair”
This rock musical about a young, free-spirited tribe focused on peace, love, and freedom became a cultural sensation in the late ’60s. You probably know its opening and closing songs. “Aquarius” introduces the tribe, while “Let the Sun Shine In” calls on the audience to help make the world a brighter place. A medley was famously recorded by The 5th Dimension after serendipity intervened: someone found lead singer Billy Davis Jr.’s wallet in a cab and invited the group to see the show. Their version topped the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks, won Grammys, and earned a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame. It’s no surprise these songs outgrew the show, as the Age of Aquarius still feels like a pipedream.

“Funny Girl”
You’ve probably heard this song everywhere—from “Glee” to “Mrs. Doubtfire” and in countless covers and parodies. But it all started in the 1964 musical “Funny Girl,” a loose take on Fanny Brice’s life, with music by Jule Styne and lyrics by Bob Merrill. In the show, Fanny decides to pursue the man she loves despite all the red flags. Since then, the song has become so much more than that—it’s a battle cry to chase your dreams, ignore the doubters, and push forward with confidence. While the song is forever tied to Barbra Streisand, it’s also been sung by Bobby Darin, Shirley Bassey, Diana Ross, Donna Summer, and even Adele during the final ever “Carpool Karaoke.”

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

The Song Performed Exceptionally Well on the UK Charts, Even Becoming Certified Gold

Perhaps Best Associated with Frank Sinatra, This Song Has Popped Up in Films, TV Shows & Been Covered by Other Artists

Putting a Smile on People’s Faces Long After This Musical Was Released

This Has Been One of Many Artists’ Favorite Things to Cover or Use in Christmassy Commercials

Singer Paul Robeson’s Rendition Sits in the Grammy Hall of Fame & in AFI’s 2004 “100 Years… 100 Songs” List

“Annie Get Your Gun”
In “Annie Get Your Gun,” this song is a witty battle of egos and gender politics between Annie Oakley and Frank Butler. But its catchy, competitive theme has long since outgrown the show, becoming a pop culture staple. You’ve probably heard it in TV shows, movies, commercials, and parodies. It’s been in Gatorade ads, “The Crown,” “The Nanny,” and “The Tonys.” Not to mention covered by Ethel Merman, Judy Garland, Barbra Streisand with Melissa McCarthy and more. Plus, it’s been parodied by legends like Groucho Marx and Miss Piggy. It’s been done so often that you half expect every artist to hear someone else’s version and think, “Anything You Can Do…”—well, you get the idea.



Are there any tunes you didn’t know came from a show? Let us know in the comments.