Top 10 Happiest Broadway Songs for When You Need a Pick Me Up
#10: “Two By Two”
“The Book of Mormon”
From curtain up, this hilarious tongue-in-cheek musical is almost guaranteed to plaster a huge grin on your face. One of its most lively moments comes when the young missionaries learn about where they’re headed and with whom. They’re just so excited to get going and their enthusiasm rubs off on the audience. The upbeat melody and their amusingly misguided use of generic stereotypes never fail to fill us with joy. It’s so catchy that it lives in our heads rent-free and pops up anytime we need some musical cheer. Just don’t be surprised if your cheeks start aching long before the song is over.
#9: “Spread the Love Around”
“Sister Act”
It’s been an uphill battle for Dolores to find common ground with her new companions. But now that she has, she wants to spread that love with the world. And what better way to do so than to bless listeners with a funky disco number that leaves them feeling elated. While we’re dancing, we can’t help but smile as we’re reminded to celebrate the things that unite us. The glamorous final number gets audiences to their feet and leaves them with an uplifting message that goes straight to their hearts. Blast this heavenly feel-good finale whenever you need your spirits lifted.
#8: “We Go Together”
“Grease”
In the original musical, “We Go Together” appeared at the end of Act One with a reprise at the end. But since the 1978 movie adaptation, it’s more famously known as the ideal albeit surreal big, fun finale. High School is over and all everyone’s left with are the memories that they created together. Rather than focus on the sadness of closing this chapter, they sing about the joy that their friendships created. Also, what an epic way to end high school, right? With its nonsensical lyrics, uptempo rhythm, and celebratory tone, this song will pick you up like Womp bop a-looma, a-womp bam boom.
#7: “Positive”
“Legally Blonde the Musical”
Although the name alone makes it worthy of our list, the song proves to be positive in almost every other way too. In need of a morale boost, Elle’s imagination conjures up her Delta Nu sorority sisters, who offer some much-needed support. They encourage Elle to stay optimistic and renew her determination in going after what she wants. We could all use a Greek Chorus to remind us of just how awesome we are and to give us that push to follow our dreams too. As you shake your junk to this song, you’ll find a fresh wave of optimism and empowerment wash over you.
#6: “Carnaval del Barrio”
“In the Heights”
If you’re looking for a song filled with good vibes, look no further. During a power cut on a hotter-than-average 4th July, Daniela rallies everyone through a neighborhood-wide party. They celebrate the cultures, heritages, and everything else that makes them a community. Regardless of whether you’re watching the scene play out or just listening to the soundtrack, the song’s cheerfulness radiates in abundance. It’s so uplifting, incredibly catchy and just try resisting the urge to get up and dance along. Whether you’re at the theater, movies, or just wanting to party solo, this song is bound to leave you in a great mood.
#5: “Six”
“Six the Musical”
They might have married a king, but for Henry VIII’s exes, life was far from a fairytale. But thanks to this reimagining, they’re reclaiming the narrative in pop concert form. Although each Queen is given her moment to shine, it’s this ensemble number that really gets us popping. In this captivating finale, each woman is given her much-deserved happy ending. The rhythm has us bopping along and fortunately, it comes with choreography that we can easily follow. The happy melody teaches us that there’s a light at the end of even the darkest tunnel. And that it’s up to us to write our own story.
#4: “My Shot”
“Hamilton”
Speaking of writing your own story… if there was ever a song to motivate you to live life to the fullest, it’s this one. Among “Hamilton’s” countless iconic tunes, this song arguably stands above the rest. While it didn’t achieve commercial success per se, it garnered a life of its own thanks to the show’s devoted fanbase. Using his signature hip-hop integrated with musical theatre, Lin-Manuel Miranda managed to blow us all away with this epic “I Want” song. It’s the perfect hype anthem for when you’re feeling deflated and just need that extra boost to steer you back on the right path.
#3: “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life”
“Spamalot”
First heard in Monty Python’s “Life of Brian,” this tongue-in-cheek burst of optimism never fails to cheer us up or brighten our day. Written by Eric Idle and inspired by British Music Hall, the song hilariously pokes fun at the British stiff upper lip stereotype. It was such a hit that in 1991 it even peaked at no.3 on the UK Singles Chart. Thanks to its cheeky lyrics and upbeat tune this song could make even the tightest upper lip crack a smile. It’s no wonder that it reappears during the finale. What better way to send your audience back out into the world.
#2: “You Can’t Stop the Beat”
“Hairspray”
Tracy’s eternally optimistic disposition is something we can all aspire to adopt, even if just to a small degree. A great place to start is by playing this song as loud as you can and shaking and shimmying with all of your might. The invigorating finale is animated, energetic and all about uncovering what brings you joy. You only need to hear that first note to feel instantly happier and more energized for whatever life throws your way. Tracy’s idealistic energy unites everyone and paves the way to a brighter future. And really who among us couldn’t use more of that in our lives right now?
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“La Vie Boheme,” “Rent”
Re-Enacting This Celebratory Scene Is Every Renthead’s Dream
“Happiness,” “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”
It’s Literally There in the Title
“Popular,” “Wicked”
A Window into Galinda’s Rose-Tinted World
“Don’t Rain on My Parade,” “Funny Girl”
An Anthem to Make You Feel Empowered & Invigorated
“Schadenfreude,” “Avenue Q”
Happiness from the Misfortune of Others, Hey, We’re Just the Messenger
#1: “Raise You Up / Just Be”
“Kinky Boots”
Sassy, exhilarating, and with a wonderful message, this is one of the most uplifting songs in modern musical theater. Not only does it celebrate Kinky Boots’ success but also shows just how much happiness you can find in self-acceptance and the acceptance of others. Engaging the entire ensemble, this spirited melody will have you strapping on your highest heels and busting out your best moves. With its high energy, positive lyrics, and animated choreography, this song belongs on all of your pick-me-up playlists. For a sure-fire way to lift your mood, turn this song up to full volume and strut your way to complete elation.
