Top 10 Opening Songs from Broadway Musicals

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  • Опубліковано 29 сер 2024
  • These Broadway musicals opened on high notes. For this list, we’ll be looking at the most show-stopping musical numbers that bring down the house as soon as the curtain rises. Our countdown includes "Wicked," "Cabaret," "The Lion King," and more! What's YOUR favorite Broadway opening song? Let us know in the comments!
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    #Broadway #Music #Songs #Showtunes #OpeningSongs #OpeningNumbers

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  • @MsMojo
    @MsMojo  2 роки тому +40

    What's YOUR favorite Broadway opening song? Let us know below, and be sure to also check out our video of the Top 10 Funniest Broadway Songs - ua-cam.com/video/DnE3GCbAvBI/v-deo.html

    • @365bumpingthat
      @365bumpingthat 2 роки тому +7

      Mines got to be 'Welcome to the Moulin Rouge!' From 'Moulin Rouge! the musical'

    • @maldub88
      @maldub88 2 роки тому +7

      Seasons of Love from Rent

    • @silviamoranr
      @silviamoranr 2 роки тому +6

      I missed Rent and Into the woods opening numbers. The funniest for me are “It’s a musical” from Something Rotten, “Don’t lose your head” from Six 👑; and “turn it off” from The Book of Mormon.

    • @sam5am_
      @sam5am_ 2 роки тому +1

      Four Jews in a Room Bitching from Falsettos

    • @keelieohta
      @keelieohta 2 роки тому +1

      this musical is often overlooked in my opinion but “urinetown” from urinetown has such a good tune and it introduces the audience to the setting of the show

  • @DreamGyrl360
    @DreamGyrl360 2 роки тому +629

    I think Phantom of the Opera's beginning, with the chandelier going up and the way the music comes in, is amazing. Sends chills up me the whole time

    • @fermangogo
      @fermangogo 2 роки тому +7

      Ditto

    • @rubygracemoseley8144
      @rubygracemoseley8144 2 роки тому +2

      Amazing

    • @JulianaBlewett
      @JulianaBlewett 2 роки тому +6

      Absolutely! I saw it in New York City and I had a front row seat and the chandelier came so close to our heads it was almost scary. Almost

    • @happychaosofthenorth
      @happychaosofthenorth 2 роки тому +15

      It's an amazing moment, but it's an overture, not an opening song with lyrics and whatnot.

    • @biancasmindpalace9024
      @biancasmindpalace9024 2 роки тому +3

      You are absolutely right but it's a west end musical and not originally from the Broadway 😉

  • @sjfaraoni
    @sjfaraoni 2 роки тому +348

    I’m so surprise that “Prologue” from “Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812” and “Prologue” from “Into the Woods” weren’t even in the honorable mentions. They are both such masterpieces that perfectly set up the show.

    • @carlosalejandroalvarenga4913
      @carlosalejandroalvarenga4913 2 роки тому +7

      TES RHEY ARE. For great comment it sets the energy of the show and hooks you in. And into the woods it’s just a perfect prologue. And it’s catchy and everything

    • @morganbrandr4228
      @morganbrandr4228 2 роки тому +6

      You should check out Sideways’ video on into the woods and how great it is

    • @introverted_artie
      @introverted_artie 2 роки тому

      I honestly think "If/Then" had a perfect opening.

    • @asterismos5451
      @asterismos5451 2 роки тому +2

      I was going to add Great Comet, yeah. It's not a spectacle or anything but it's really clever and perfectly campy and unique and super necessary to help the viewer understand the rest of the show. And it's just really fun and catchy.

    • @IslesYankeeLady
      @IslesYankeeLady 2 роки тому +2

      Let’s see, I typed notes, and come to this conclusion. Something like-
      1. Tradition (Yep)
      2. Circle of Life (It’s too good)
      3. Oh What a Beautiful Morning (changed musical theater forever)
      4. I Hope I Get it (It’s so classic it’s absurd)
      5. Alexander Hamilton
      6. Willkommen
      7. Good Morning Baltimore
      8. Hello
      9. All that Jazz
      10. Prologue- Into the Woods
      11. Prologue- Great Comet (HM)
      I agree with the other HMs
      No One Mourns the Wicked (HM) doesn’t beat these
      I’d like to personally shout out “Untitled Opening Number” from [Title of Show] for my HM contribution. 😊

  • @mattg177
    @mattg177 2 роки тому +192

    I personally believe Phantom Of The Opera has the best opening song. When that overture hits after the auction I get goosebumps every time without fail.

    • @samuelblachon95130
      @samuelblachon95130 2 роки тому +7

      Les Misérables too

    • @dragonstouch1042
      @dragonstouch1042 2 роки тому +2

      And that’s the problem I believe, it’s an overture

    • @mattg177
      @mattg177 2 роки тому +2

      @@dragonstouch1042 It is but it is also the opening song.

  • @TheCamdog9
    @TheCamdog9 2 роки тому +363

    "The Whole Being Dead Thing" from Beetlejuice should of at least gotten an honorable mention. Especially since they change the lyrics based on where it's sung.

    • @purple4596
      @purple4596 2 роки тому +10

      but it's not the first song. the first song is "invisible".

    • @TheCamdog9
      @TheCamdog9 2 роки тому +13

      @@purple4596 True, but that song is more of a prologue than an opening number.

    • @Kpopk1ng
      @Kpopk1ng 2 роки тому +2

      AGREE THATS SUCH A GOOD SONG

    • @purple4596
      @purple4596 2 роки тому

      @@TheCamdog9 You are correct, I didn't think about that.

    • @slagarcrue85
      @slagarcrue85 2 роки тому

      I agree

  • @minus_the_boss9714
    @minus_the_boss9714 2 роки тому +268

    They need to make a part 2 to this. There is so many musical opening that should have been mentioned.

    • @KC-qi7gn
      @KC-qi7gn 2 роки тому +2

      I SECOND THAT WITH SEASON OF LOVE AS NUMBER 1

    • @rachelthigpen1389
      @rachelthigpen1389 2 роки тому +1

      Isn’t the list opening songs? I don’t think it’s an opening song?

    • @lazarsharky
      @lazarsharky Рік тому +1

      I third that with "Carrying the banner"

    • @hannahmckee5592
      @hannahmckee5592 Рік тому

      @@KC-qi7gn Seasons of Love opens Act 2, not the show.

  • @nicoleavp1994
    @nicoleavp1994 2 роки тому +88

    I think Hadestown “Road to Hell” The way that the music is sung is joyful and a party. It also introduces the characters and the plot. The song is so catchy and talks about the ending and the audience doesn’t fully realize it. So when the show ends and before they sing “Road to Hell Reprise” you hear genuine gasps from the audience!

    • @SarahCarvela
      @SarahCarvela 2 роки тому +3

      Fully agree. It perfectly sets up the show we and delivers the gut punch at the end. Realizing the entire musical set you up for that ending, but you wanted to believe it’ll turn out this time 🥲 probably my most played musical soundtrack right now for that reason.

    • @raniwasacyborg
      @raniwasacyborg 2 роки тому +1

      This song definitely deserves to be up there. The way it gradually builds up to that breathtaking climax is incredible, it perfectly sets the tone of the show, and for those who are familiar with Greek mythology that last minute shock of "so this is about Orpheus and Eurydice and we're in for a wild ride" is a very nice extra touch!

    • @asterismos5451
      @asterismos5451 2 роки тому

      I disagree but only because I prefer the off-Broadway production's choice to start with Any Way the Wind Blows. Road to Hell is a great opener but Any Way the Wind Blows I think is better, just less showy and thus not what they went with for Broadway.

  • @kristashafer93098
    @kristashafer93098 2 роки тому +77

    “Overture” from The Phantom of the Opera is my favorite opening song! As it plays and the music swells, we watch the opera house restored to its former glory and beauty!

  • @happychaosofthenorth
    @happychaosofthenorth 2 роки тому +92

    My list for part 2...
    10. Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats
    9. Heaven on their Minds - Jesus Christ Superstar
    8. What's Inside - Waitress
    7. Rock Island - The Music Man
    6. Into the Woods - Into the Woods
    5. Urinetown - Urinetown
    4. Another Opening Another Show - Kiss Me, Kate
    3. Welcome to the Rennaisance - Something Rotten
    2. Look Down - Les Miserables
    1. Road to Hell - Hadestown

    • @MHruskamusic
      @MHruskamusic 2 роки тому +1

      I was wondering where Cats was and I completely forgot about Into the Woods although that is like a true musical. It's pretty much all singing, if I am not mistaken.

    • @mehere8038
      @mehere8038 2 роки тому

      Ah, I like some of those :)
      Add "Annie - it's a hard knock life" in there somewhere too, maybe as an honourable mention :)

  • @Anime_theatre_lover
    @Anime_theatre_lover 2 роки тому +152

    Why in the heck wasn’t there the into the woods opening? It’s a masterpiece

  • @taravignola5982
    @taravignola5982 2 роки тому +26

    The opening song of Rent, "Rent" is awesome and VERY impactful when setting the stage for the story. I'm shocked it's not on here!

    • @PelafinaLievre
      @PelafinaLievre 2 роки тому

      It’s technically not the opening number. Tune Up #1 is. There are three songs before “Rent”

    • @BlazeDupree1525
      @BlazeDupree1525 2 роки тому +1

      I'm surprised Seasons of love isn't on here. It's literally one of the most iconic songs in Broadway.

    • @PelafinaLievre
      @PelafinaLievre 2 роки тому +1

      @@BlazeDupree1525 It’s not an opening in the Broadway show. It’s the Act 2 opening.

  • @MsJubjubbird
    @MsJubjubbird 2 роки тому +138

    The Sound of Music should have been in it. Especially with Julie lending her voice

    • @raisinyao
      @raisinyao 2 роки тому +4

      AGREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    • @chelseahazlehurst
      @chelseahazlehurst 2 роки тому +6

      I don’t think it counts as it’s a film musical and this list is talking about Broadway musicals (musicals on stage)

    • @ashleydowney1222
      @ashleydowney1222 2 роки тому +13

      @@chelseahazlehurst Well the Sound of Music originally was on Broadway before it was a movie.

    • @MsJubjubbird
      @MsJubjubbird 2 роки тому +7

      @@chelseahazlehurst it's still a stage musical. Even without Julie it's an iconic opening. Les miserables is probably the other one is add.

    • @Sara-hz9zk
      @Sara-hz9zk 2 роки тому +2

      Isn’t the stage version super boring in its opening? I think it’s just a nun chorus and the SOM song doesn’t actually kick in until like 6 minutes in.

  • @annarosales1491
    @annarosales1491 2 роки тому +30

    The Circle of Life from The Lion King is breathtaking . I watched the play 2x and the opening still took my breath away.

  • @kkmmrew
    @kkmmrew 2 роки тому +43

    As soon as I read the title, I immediately thought of Tradition. It sets the show up so beautifully. I am a firm believer that you need a strong ensemble number to start a show and Fiddler knocks it out of the park. It gives the exposition on the characters and draws you into the community and their lives. Plus as an actor it is just the most enjoyable opening I have ever performed.

  • @phoenix7hope894
    @phoenix7hope894 2 роки тому +59

    Look Down from Les Miserables would definitely be No.1 on my list, it is an epic masterpiece. 🤯 and Sound of Music too

    • @chemina8541
      @chemina8541 2 роки тому +3

      Yes! I love the 10th-anniversary version, it was so epic, the clank of the chains, the rhythmic 'work' of the prisoners - it is a very strong opening number and should have at least warranted an honorable mention - well, or they want to avoid having Les Mis in every musical top list? Still, a shame.

    • @phoenix7hope894
      @phoenix7hope894 2 роки тому +2

      @@chemina8541 yes, absolutely! The 10th anniversary version is actually my favourite Les Mis soundtrack, the entire orchestra and choir was epic, not to mention that cast is something else.

    • @samuelblachon95130
      @samuelblachon95130 2 роки тому

      @@phoenix7hope894 the 25th cast IS great too

    • @phoenix7hope894
      @phoenix7hope894 2 роки тому +1

      @@samuelblachon95130 Yes, they are. I liked watching that version... Michael Ball went from being Marius to Javert. 😱 I think it's mostly childhood nostalgia that I like the 10th, but their performances truly are incredible, full of heart and soul.

    • @RENTnerd87
      @RENTnerd87 2 роки тому +1

      "Look Down" isn't the opening song, "Look Down" happens about halfway through the first act when we meet Gavroche, Marius, & Enjolras. You're thinking of "Work Song"

  • @thomasbradley4505
    @thomasbradley4505 2 роки тому +61

    Ragtime was definitely missing. It sets up all the stories, introduces all the characters and uses all the musical styles that will used throughout the show

    • @dreamerjj
      @dreamerjj 2 роки тому +8

      Yes!! It should be in the top 5! It’a perfect as a prologue, it’s perfect introduction of LITERALLY EVERYONE IN THE SHOW and is the best opening ever. Sorry Ms Mojo, this list is not right.

    • @danerobinson837
      @danerobinson837 2 роки тому +4

      I was reading through the comments ready to add “Ragtime” if no one else had. The first time I saw the production, when the opening number finished, I thought, “well that alone was worth the price of admission!

    • @gordongraham7
      @gordongraham7 2 роки тому +2

      YES!!!

    • @dukeofkings8942
      @dukeofkings8942 2 роки тому

      Ragtime's opening number is genuinely amazing, really should be on this list.

    • @scottmiller7779
      @scottmiller7779 5 місяців тому

      I was hoping to see the exclusion of Ragtime listed here. I just love how the song builds and blends the disparate groups into a swirl of sound and syncopated rhythm. Perfectly sets the tone for the changes that were about to happen in the characters lives, and was happening to American society at the time Ragtime became a popular musical genre and paving the way for the Jazz age and modern American music/culture.

  • @kelleyceccato7025
    @kelleyceccato7025 2 роки тому +22

    I wish there had been a spot in the Honorable Mentions for "In the Heights."

  • @garveyneal1672
    @garveyneal1672 2 роки тому +50

    0:36 10. Welcome to the Rock - Come from Away
    2:03 9. I Hope I get it - A Chorus Line
    3:18 8. No one mourns the wicked - Wicked
    4:41 7. Hello! - The Book of Mormon
    6:04 6. Willkommen - Cabaret
    7:23 5. Good Morning Baltimore - Hairspray
    8:43 4. Circle if Life - The Lion King
    9:53 3. Oh What a beautiful mornin - Oklahoma!
    11:25 2. Alexander Hamilton - Hamilton
    12:51 Honorable Mentions:
    A. Prologue: Little Shop of Horrors - Little Shop of Horrors
    B. All that Jazz - Chicago
    C. Prelude: The Ballad of Sweeney Todd: 'Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd' - Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
    D. Magic to do - Pippin
    E. Ex-wives - Six
    15:06 1. Tradition - Fiddler on the Roof

  • @rafaelz6211
    @rafaelz6211 2 роки тому +45

    The Ballad of Sweeney todd will always be my number 1. A perfect song to start a perfect musical and sets the tone beautifully with haunting lyrics and sweeney’s feature at the end of it really bringing it all together

    • @cethomas324
      @cethomas324 2 роки тому +4

      Great choice, and I agree, though it certainly is grim, if in a hilariously macabre way. "And what if none of their souls were saved; They went to their maker impeccably shaved" is one of my favorite lines of any musical, and Sweeney Todd popping out of his grave saying he wouldn't want to give away what happens in the play (haha) is next level.

    • @dominicsanimatedreviews5966
      @dominicsanimatedreviews5966 2 роки тому +2

      I love it too! Wonderful opening to a wonderful musical. Especially "Swing your razor high Sweeney hold it to the skies!"

    • @rafaelz6211
      @rafaelz6211 2 роки тому +1

      @@cethomas324 yep!

    • @rafaelz6211
      @rafaelz6211 2 роки тому +1

      @@dominicsanimatedreviews5966 it’s brilliant

    • @theineffableshipper297
      @theineffableshipper297 2 місяці тому

      agreed!! i cant wait to do this show next year

  • @trinaq
    @trinaq 2 роки тому +69

    Just like the original movie did many moons ago, "The Circle of Life" warms my heart, it's such a superb way to open the story! ♥️😍

    • @carminecdinoproductions
      @carminecdinoproductions 2 роки тому +2

      I definitely agree! It’s a classic heartwarming showstopper that starts and ends the story the same way and also brings the story full circle!

    • @general_hayes
      @general_hayes 2 роки тому +1

      Got to see it on Broadway back in 2017....it was magical. With the mic'd percussionists and the final bass drum hit...I was crying at the end of the song. It was so...beautiful!

    • @johntompkins
      @johntompkins 2 роки тому

      @@carminecdinoproductions I see what you did there

    • @What_Makes_Climate_Tick
      @What_Makes_Climate_Tick 2 роки тому +1

      I see you use the logo from The Addams Family musical. That one has a great opening number, too. When you're an Addams, the standard answers don't apply!

    • @ELmayberry
      @ELmayberry 2 роки тому

      ​@@general_hayes yeah, I saw the musical over 10 years ago (only once tho) and I got chills bc of that opening 😍

  • @gonzalomunozaliste200
    @gonzalomunozaliste200 2 роки тому +9

    "The circle of life" brought tears to my eyes, the teather experience was out of this world, I dont know why, but it really touch hearts

  • @annek1226
    @annek1226 2 роки тому +24

    For me, it is and always will be Lion King hands down! I have never had a Broadway production effect me they way it did! Everything from music to costumes and set are outstanding! My second would be Hamilton! Great music, as well as cast are great!

  • @The.Lilomay
    @The.Lilomay 2 роки тому +24

    There’s no way All that Jazz is an honorable mention
    It is legendary

  • @aisadal2521
    @aisadal2521 2 роки тому +59

    Hell yeah, _No One Mourns the Wicked_ definitely is one of the best intros to a musical 😄

  • @bongolong
    @bongolong 2 роки тому +20

    "Ragtime" should have been an honorable mention. I do agree with "Fiddler" as probably the best ever opener.

    • @ObliviouslyLucid
      @ObliviouslyLucid 3 місяці тому +1

      The Ragtime Opening is amazing. Such a great an introduction to the show.

  • @rleutz13
    @rleutz13 2 роки тому +34

    "Prologue" from "Ragtime" and "Comedy tonight" from "Forum" should have been at least honorable mentions

    • @kimberlysimek7349
      @kimberlysimek7349 2 роки тому +2

      YES! I came here for both of these!!

    • @jeffreywayne3127
      @jeffreywayne3127 2 роки тому +3

      Terrible omission for "Comedy Tonight". A Sondheim tune that's easy to sing! 😉🎼🎵🎶

    • @kristiern9281
      @kristiern9281 2 роки тому +1

      They needed about 20 Honorable Mentions.

    • @Kpopk1ng
      @Kpopk1ng 2 роки тому +2

      AGREE WITH RAGTIME THAT PROLOGUE IS FANTASTIC

    • @dreamerjj
      @dreamerjj 2 роки тому

      Couldn’t agree more. Both. Please redo

  • @fallonfish190
    @fallonfish190 2 роки тому +16

    I was hoping Beetlejuice, Rent, or Cats would get a mention, all of those openings are great

  • @FeatheredWingz
    @FeatheredWingz 2 роки тому +36

    Come From Away is a beautiful musical; a little painful but mostly heartwarming. Welcome to the Rock is a great example of how to introduce an audience to the general mood of a place. I've known a few old family friends from Newfoundland and this number always has me thinking of them & wonder how they're doing.
    And there's nothing quite like watching the amazing puppeteering performances in The Lion King. Circle of Life is a showstopper on it's own as a piece of music, but the stage performance is a work of art that elevates it further!
    And....I know it doesn't have lyrics and doesn't qualify as an opening number per se, but the Phantom of the Opera overture is such an experience to open with, live! I love feeling the music, the low low notes of the brass section especially. I love to feel the notes reverberate through my bones as Raoul reminisces, and the opera house reverses back to it's former glory...

    • @lydwinaofschiedam2685
      @lydwinaofschiedam2685 2 роки тому +3

      I agree. I didn’t know much about Come from Away when I bought tickets. However, the opening number pulled me right in and the musical kept me riveted throughout.

    • @j.d.e.7416
      @j.d.e.7416 Рік тому

      Come From Away is one of the best shows of the many, many shows I've seen. The talented cast is remarkably seamless as they swap hats, scarves, jackets, and identities.

  • @wdwnanab6221
    @wdwnanab6221 2 роки тому +14

    I love that Pippin and Cabaret are on the list. Can't argue with Fiddler at the top. I would add Hello Dolly and Cats.

  • @luca7165
    @luca7165 2 роки тому +14

    Personally, “Bikini Botton Day” from SpongeBob and “Beautiful” From Heather’s are my favourite opening numbers, not only do they both SLAP, but they introduce all the characters and set the tone for their respective shows beautifully :)

    • @djjavonn6777
      @djjavonn6777 2 роки тому +2

      Heathers was never on Broadway .

  • @DeathLadyShinigami
    @DeathLadyShinigami 2 роки тому +20

    I wasn't expecting it to make the list but I was glad to see Six's Ex-Wives in the honorables. That whole soundtrack is top tier.

    • @dreamerjj
      @dreamerjj 2 роки тому

      It’s not a soundtrack, it’s a Score, a cast recording if something, and in any case, with titles like COMPANY and INTO THE WOODS out, it’s stealing a spot!! 😂😂😂

  • @Foxwolf9Tails
    @Foxwolf9Tails 2 роки тому +9

    How did RENT's "Seasons of Love" not get even so much as an honorable mention? It is a powerful, moving song that sets the mood for the whole musical.

    • @jsimpers
      @jsimpers 2 роки тому +3

      Seasons of Love wasnt the opening number, though. It opened Act 2.

    • @bp2608
      @bp2608 11 днів тому

      Please pay attention, the video is about opening numbers, which Seasons of Love is not.

  • @spencers4198
    @spencers4198 2 роки тому +13

    I know it's a "newer" musical but was SO hoping to see Moulin Rouge's opener on here. I saw it on Broadway and had goosebumps. IMO they blew the movie out of the water with "Lady Marmalade"!

  • @lueagle09
    @lueagle09 2 роки тому +15

    A recent favorite of mine would be “Road to Hell” from Hadestown, especially when you see it live.

    • @happychaosofthenorth
      @happychaosofthenorth 2 роки тому

      How can you not be hooked with the first few notes of that trombone? I know I was. I saw it in 2017 and within the first few seconds knew I was going to love this show and buy the soundtrack. It's my favourite show and the opening introduces all the characters beautifully.

  • @thomasamgarten5719
    @thomasamgarten5719 2 роки тому +3

    In to the woods prologue is such an amazing way to introduce the play, and what’s about to happen.

  • @MrGoat-cd8lt
    @MrGoat-cd8lt Рік тому +7

    Carrying The Banner from Newsies(the broadway musical) is very underrated. It really sets the tone of the show, explains what’s going on in one song, showcases most of the characters, has brilliant lyrics, had great choreography, and basically just everything about it is perfect.

    • @mukundsadasivan6872
      @mukundsadasivan6872 6 місяців тому

      That’s not the opening number though

    • @MrGoat-cd8lt
      @MrGoat-cd8lt 6 місяців тому

      @@mukundsadasivan6872 it basically is. It’s not the first number, but it’s like the big opening number

    • @bp2608
      @bp2608 11 днів тому

      @@MrGoat-cd8lt I agree, I would call it the opening number and it is under rated!

  • @SweetTikTokLife
    @SweetTikTokLife 2 роки тому +9

    My absolute favourite is of 'The Phantom of the Opera', I watched it in London and had chills the whole time LOVE it 🥰

  • @Daveodad
    @Daveodad 2 роки тому +18

    The opening number from "Spring Awakening" would be on my list for sure, along with "Les Miserables" and "Rent"...and just to mention in passing, I think the opening of "In The Heights" is superior to "Hamilton"

  • @araasis3239
    @araasis3239 2 роки тому +8

    The first note of The Circle of Life gives me goosebumps every time. Also, thank you for including Hello! Definitely one of my favorites.

    • @MsMojo
      @MsMojo  2 роки тому

      It's so good!

  • @Bwayswiftmac
    @Bwayswiftmac 2 роки тому +42

    It wouldn’t be a watch mojo musical video without Hamilton taking a top 5 spot on

  • @Molson-xg9hs
    @Molson-xg9hs 2 роки тому +15

    Love this list! Tradition is still amazing and was worried it wouldn’t be here, but save the best for last!
    Not sure what to take off, but would personally bump up All That Jazz and the Sweeney Todd opening from HM.

  • @chemina8541
    @chemina8541 2 роки тому +7

    Hm, I love Look Down from Les Mis, it sets the mood and the sounds are haunting, the clanking of the chains always gives me chills.

  • @larisa5656
    @larisa5656 2 роки тому +3

    I will never forget seeing The Lion King for the first time. I was 12, and my brother was 9. No one knew about the opening spectacle, so it was a very welcome and delightful surprise. The audience (including my family) went nuts when the song ended. My mom says that my brother and I danced in the aisle during one of the other numbers, but that part eludes my memory.

  • @rubygracemoseley8144
    @rubygracemoseley8144 2 роки тому +8

    My absolute favorite is Phantom. It’s already so chilling and mysterious from the very beginning. But I also love Wicked’s opening. Sets up the story very well and gets us interested right off the bat. Lion King’s opening is so beautiful and powerful and…woenjcjejdkensjjedokd *chills! It’s been year since I saw it live but I do remember that it was amazing.

  • @dkbiology
    @dkbiology 2 роки тому +2

    Ragtime opening number exquisitely introduces the characters and stories
    of the musical.

  • @ricovega4791
    @ricovega4791 2 роки тому +5

    I'm so glad Magic To Do was an honorable mention cuz I've always felt Pippin was constantly looked over. It's such an amazing show!

    • @manuelorozco7760
      @manuelorozco7760 2 роки тому

      I’ve seen it once on the 2014 tour with Sasha Allen John Rubinstein and Lucie Arnez

    • @bestnameeverf
      @bestnameeverf 2 роки тому

      Agreed! It’s my top 3 fav shows ever. Glad it’s at least hm since msmojo didn’t put the Pippin finale on its list of best closing songs.

  • @glenngatlen8179
    @glenngatlen8179 2 роки тому +3

    Chicago I thoughts would be number one!!! My favorite musical.

  • @elly_hermione
    @elly_hermione 2 роки тому +4

    Alexander Hamilton is really something else. I've never seen Fiddler on the Roof, so I can't really judge if its opening is better or not as the video says, but from all the musicals I've watched, Hamilton has the best opening number ever. It sets up the drama and creates a good background for what's about to come - you already feel for the main character (how can you not when they describe such a tragic backstory!) and there are so many things you want to know: who are these people who are talking about him? why is his murderer telling his story and why did he kill him? why are they saying "he rewrote the game", or "never learnt to take his time", or "the world will never be the same"? So many questions, and you are immediately SO interested in getting answers. And the music itself is fantastic. Even after literal hundreds of re-listening, I never get tired of the parts that are sung by the company, they really make me ~feel~, you know. The melodies, the harmonies, they are so dramatic. Like, I remember when I was watching Hamilton for the first time, I didn't know it was a rap/hip-hop musical (and just had no idea what the musical was about, I'm not American so I didn't even know Hamilton was a real guy, I just knew it was a super-popular musical, so I decided to go for it), so when Burr started his verse I was like "WTF?". But by the end of Alexander Hamilton I was SO IN. That's what a good opening number should look like.

  • @sallyniemzyk6964
    @sallyniemzyk6964 2 роки тому +5

    My favorite opening from these choices would be "Fiddler!" Such and amazing show!

  • @user-zo2oy7lr5u
    @user-zo2oy7lr5u Рік тому +3

    The fact that Into The Woods wasn’t on here is a crime!

  • @laurenmccartney1316
    @laurenmccartney1316 2 роки тому +2

    ‘Carrying the banner’ from Newsies will always be my favorite Broadway opening number😱😱

  • @dawnjensen6560
    @dawnjensen6560 2 роки тому +3

    “The Heat is on in Saigon” from Miss Saigon is such a great opening number.

  • @noelr.3471
    @noelr.3471 2 роки тому +10

    I really think Aida’s Every Story is a Love Story should be in this. It’s such a unique piece that honestly gives you a false impression of the musical until the second half where it shows the real drama and tragedy of the musical. It also shows what type of musical it is. First half is more classical while second half is for sure Elton John.

  • @ColtraneAndRain
    @ColtraneAndRain Рік тому +2

    Lion King' Circle of Life sent chills down my spine! The ensemble coming down the isles was phenomenal!

  • @jessicabejarano6065
    @jessicabejarano6065 2 роки тому

    i was in high school musicals for a couple of years. My first was carousel. I remember my first opening night and when I heard the opening notes and one girl was in a wheelchair she squeezed my hand and said 1,2,3,4. I felt myself completely relax. Years later I can’t forget that waltz. Circle of life has special place in my heart. My grandma took me when I was 5. Then after she had passed away my mom took me to the Broadway show. She didn’t tell me what we were seeing I remember she had me close my eyes. I hearding the opening drums and crying because I felt like my grandma was still with me.

  • @alyrios
    @alyrios 2 роки тому +7

    If you added a mostly dance number with I hope I get it from A Chorus Line, you should had added Jesus Christ Superstar Overture. I mean that opening literally rocks the house.

  • @codyhiginbotham6616
    @codyhiginbotham6616 2 роки тому +5

    If we do Opening Movie Musical songs:
    30/90 (tick, tick…BOOM!)
    Another Day of Sun (La La Land)
    The Greatest Show (The Greatest Showman)
    The Candy Man (Willy Wonka)
    Over the Rainbow (The Wizard of Oz)
    Circle of Life (The Lion King)
    Belle (Beauty and the Beast)
    Family Madrigal (Encanto)

    • @sadiesmith1509
      @sadiesmith1509 2 роки тому +1

      Agreed

    • @calebwarner4104
      @calebwarner4104 2 роки тому

      Circle of life was on the list already

    • @codyhiginbotham6616
      @codyhiginbotham6616 2 роки тому

      @@calebwarner4104 That’s the great thing of it being a movie first
      It can work for both lists

  • @jonnarobinson7541
    @jonnarobinson7541 2 роки тому +1

    Overall I think your list is wonderful. However my niece was in the lion King for about three years and I attended over 20 performances. Every time the audience was completely in awe over the opening number. I have seen all of the musicals on this list and the only change but I think it’s necessary is having the lion king be number one.

  • @brycenbohl5657
    @brycenbohl5657 2 роки тому +1

    Everyone talking about how many shows should have been mentioned, still failing to mention this list is still incredible!
    Sure, Prologue (Into the Woods), Try to Remember (The Fantasticks), and Road to Hell (Hadestown) all should have been mentioned.
    But the fact that we’re saying more really shows how many good opening numbers there really are.
    Super happy to be apart of such an incredible medium!!

  • @codyhiginbotham6616
    @codyhiginbotham6616 2 роки тому +5

    My personal favorites:
    Alexander Hamilton (Hamilton)
    Circle of Life (The Lion King)
    In the Heights (In the Heights)
    Hello (The Book of Mormon)
    Wilkomen (Cabaret)
    Into the Woods (Into the Woods)
    Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

  • @wuttatota148
    @wuttatota148 2 роки тому +6

    From the musicals i've seen, my favorites are Circle of Life, Alexander Hamilton, Road to Hell, and Hello

  • @carlfogelin1388
    @carlfogelin1388 2 роки тому +1

    I've always liked the opening number to "Bye, Bye Birdie". Truly a fun, ensemble song

  • @silviamoranr
    @silviamoranr 2 роки тому +7

    I liked the countdown, but I would have like to see also the opening of Into the woods 🤩

  • @brodiger
    @brodiger 2 роки тому +4

    Circle of Life is my favorite opening song on the lion king Broadway honestly when it first starts it sounds like something you would use as an alarm clock to get you up in the morning when I first saw the lion King on Broadway pretty blown away and like it was pretty well as much as the 2019 version was and honestly I love the original 1994 I’m a big fan of it

  • @jasminejohnston6393
    @jasminejohnston6393 2 роки тому +1

    Thanks for including Come From Away on this list, I love that musical!

  • @sazfretz1945
    @sazfretz1945 2 роки тому +9

    It's hard to believe that the Cassie in the movie version of "A Chorus Line" (mark 3:14) is Miss Darbus in "High School Musical."

  • @rubygracemoseley8144
    @rubygracemoseley8144 2 роки тому +2

    I saw Wicked with my sisters for the first time live last September. I’d heard the soundtrack my whole life, I’d seen scenes and I was so excited!! And the opening is just as crazy, exciting, fun, powerful and emotional as the rest of the story

  • @NaurelEclipse
    @NaurelEclipse 2 роки тому +3

    Honorable mention should have brought up the opening to the 2013 tonys with Neil Patrick Harris performing 'Bigger'

  • @asianpanda888
    @asianpanda888 2 роки тому +6

    How is Newsies not on this list?

  • @kamiclements7456
    @kamiclements7456 Рік тому

    I’m so glad you put “Circle of Life” “Good Morning Baltimore” and “No One Mourns the Wicked” on this list!

  • @jillybeanc
    @jillybeanc 2 роки тому +1

    Anyone else burst into tears during the Lion King opening? That has never happened to me before but sitting in the theatre with all of that going on around you and that song with those voices, I lost it. I have heard that this is not that uncommon.

  • @beccac6812
    @beccac6812 2 роки тому +1

    Omigod you guys totally should’ve been on the list ! I feel like the fact they were poking fun at themselves and it’s just so damn catchy made it an instant classic opening

  • @olvialee7221
    @olvialee7221 2 роки тому +1

    That’s my dad’s favorite. Complained at first but fell in love with Fiddler On the Roof

  • @mark-briansonna7670
    @mark-briansonna7670 2 роки тому +2

    The opening of 42nd Street is simply brilliant.

  • @PatrickRsGhost
    @PatrickRsGhost 2 роки тому +3

    I was hoping "Tradition" was on this list, and was very happy to see it as #1.
    A couple of my favorite opening songs are "Overture/Heaven On Their Minds" from "Jesus Christ Superstar" and "Oh, What A Circus/Sing You Fools" from "Evita".

  • @DirtMoss
    @DirtMoss 2 роки тому +1

    the choice for #1 makes me so happy!!!! I know it's a classic but this musicals feel slept on still, its so good!!

  • @rubygracemoseley8144
    @rubygracemoseley8144 2 роки тому +1

    Oh! I forgot about All That Jazz! I love that one as well

  • @sailorsayaka6928
    @sailorsayaka6928 2 роки тому +7

    Bikini Bottom day from Spongebob The Musical is a really good opening number. Should have been somewhere here 😕, good list regardless though. 💙💜

  • @annaluciaherrera5562
    @annaluciaherrera5562 2 роки тому +1

    "Welcome To The Moulin Rouge!" from Moulin Rouge definitely deserves to be on the list. It's really fun, catchy and the and the staging is a whirlwind of colors and dance...

  • @Sara-hz9zk
    @Sara-hz9zk 2 роки тому +1

    So pleased to see PIPPIN on here! And LITTLE SHOP too, with WICKED, OKLAHOMA, and LION KING…solid list indeed. A little surprised PHANTOM’s opening didn’t make it buuut I get that it’s an overture. But talk about iconic.

  • @SmashBroRazz
    @SmashBroRazz 2 роки тому

    The fact that you put "Tradition" as number one proves you get it. Well done, Ms. Mojo.

  • @scottyarbour2570
    @scottyarbour2570 2 роки тому +2

    “Jellicle Songs”, “Road to Hell” and above all the “Prologue” to Les Miz all should be on here. This first two notes to the “Prologue” tell you “this is going to be epic.”

  • @maddiehauersperger5406
    @maddiehauersperger5406 2 роки тому +5

    I may be in the minority, but I kept waiting for Cats to pop up. ALW was a master at harmonies and I loved everytime I've seen the show

  • @KeeperOfUntoldDreams
    @KeeperOfUntoldDreams 2 роки тому +1

    What about "Look Down" from Les Miserables!? My intro to Les Mis was the 2012 movie, I had no idea what to expect, but, as soon as I heard that first song started up, the movie had my full attention.

  • @AtarahDerek
    @AtarahDerek Рік тому

    I'm just glad that all of my favorites are listed. Many of them became favorites precisely because the opening number grabbed me and sucked me in.

  • @Tapdancerc4u
    @Tapdancerc4u 2 роки тому +2

    How is the opening to Ragtime not on here?!?!? It is one of the most epic openings that sets the stage and ends leaving you speechless.
    On that note, the opening to Hunchback is also an amazing and epic opening!!!!
    Also, Titanic!!!
    Now I’m done!!!

  • @JohnK75136
    @JohnK75136 2 роки тому +5

    “Heaven On Their Minds” and “Look Down” at least warranted honorable mentions.

  • @johannatobies
    @johannatobies Рік тому +1

    I literally just watch those videos to see Hamilton😂 Been there one week ago in Hamburg (Germany) and now I am more obsessed than ever!!

  • @TulsaKanette
    @TulsaKanette 2 роки тому +1

    Good Morning, Baltimore is one of my favorite showtunes

  • @renaborg2996
    @renaborg2996 2 роки тому +5

    Circle of Life should have been #1. It gives me chills every time I listen to it. When I saw it live, I cried.

    • @ZVT946mtr36
      @ZVT946mtr36 2 роки тому +1

      The Festival of the Lion King was my all-time favorite attraction at Disney World. Definitely reduced me to tears. It was spectacular.

  • @mynameismusic11
    @mynameismusic11 2 роки тому +1

    I’m surprise Look down from Les Mis wasn’t included. It’s definitely one of the most powerful openings for sure!

  • @braedanrosenow2807
    @braedanrosenow2807 2 роки тому +1

    OMG so happy this came out. Love your content

  • @usernamenotloaded0945
    @usernamenotloaded0945 2 роки тому +4

    jellicle songs for jellicle cats from cats and seasons of love from rent

  • @seanhorace925
    @seanhorace925 2 роки тому +15

    I've got a few other opening songs from broadway musicals that should've been mentioned here:
    .The Whole Being Dead Thing from Beetlejuice The Musical
    .Bikini Bottom Day from Spongebob The Musical
    .Prologue/Belle from Beauty and the Beast The Musical
    .Heaven on Their Minds from Jesus Christ Superstar
    .Any Dream Will Do from Joseph and the Amazing Techicolor Dreamcoat
    .Into The Woods from Into The Woods

  • @iceprincess1898
    @iceprincess1898 2 роки тому +3

    Ex-Wives from Six is definitely up there.

  • @eljordinio7647
    @eljordinio7647 2 роки тому +3

    Wish Arabian Nights from Aladdin was here. The choreography is amazing and the Genie really knows how to open a show

    • @manuelorozco7760
      @manuelorozco7760 2 роки тому +1

      Major Attaway is the STAR when he was the Genie

    • @eljordinio7647
      @eljordinio7647 2 роки тому +1

      @@manuelorozco7760 gotta love the man Major

    • @manuelorozco7760
      @manuelorozco7760 2 роки тому

      @@eljordinio7647 I saw him on the Aladdin tour a couple years ago. Wish it was still James Monroe Iglehart. Been a fan of him since Memphis

  • @JW-vt9bd
    @JW-vt9bd 2 роки тому +2

    Requiem Evita would’ve been a nice honorable mention!

  • @hannahpryseski7817
    @hannahpryseski7817 9 місяців тому

    I always LOVED the lion king as a kid. When i eventually saw the stage production several years back in Cleveland I started crying the moment I heard that first opening note. The chills never stopped. So freaking amazing.

  • @jpendowski7503
    @jpendowski7503 2 роки тому +5

    Um, Ok, so this list needed to be longer and include ‘Overture / Heaven on Their Minds’ from Jesus Christ Superstar, the guitar and passionate vocals plunge into the soul. 💜

  • @phinsanity5
    @phinsanity5 2 роки тому +4

    I wonder what a top 20 list would like that just to see where you have some of the other great opening numbers