When the world feels impossible — and after that election, we’re definitely in one of those moments — there’s nothing like musical theater to lift you up. The canon is PACKED with powerful songs that are tailor-made for a revolution. Whether you’re following the FAFO updates on TikTok or out in the world doing the real work, these 10 musical theater songs will help you stay strong. And we’re with you!
Top image: Bain News Service, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
1. “Defying Gravity” – Wicked
In this, the year of the Wicked movie, this one seems especially appropriate. It’s one of the most iconic empowerment songs in musical theater — it’s all about breaking free from the constraints that hold you down and embracing your true potential. When Elphaba decides to stop playing by the rules (get it?) and defy the expectations placed on her, she takes control of her own destiny. The soaring melody and meaningful lyrics are a reminder that sometimes, you need to go against the grain to live your best life.
Lyric to remember:
“I’m through with playing by the rules of someone else’s game!”
2. “The March” – Suffs
Our foremothers fought like hell to get us the right to vote, and “The March” from Suffs is a powerful anthem that captures their spirit of activism and perseverance. With its stirring lyrics and incredible call to action, this song will ignite your inner sense of purpose and determination — especially when you need to rally your strength for the most important cause in front of us right now. It’s an excellent choice for when you feel the weight of fear but need to move forward, step by step.
Lyric to remember:
“We’re the daughters of liberty, we will rise, we will rise, we will rise!”
3. “One Day More” – Les Misérables
“One Day More” is a rousing, defiant anthem sung by the entire cast of Les Misérables, and it can help you face your personal struggles. This song captures the power of perseverance, as they stand together in the face of fear and uncertainty (why is it so timely). It’s an inspiring song when you’re facing obstacles or difficult decisions, reminding you that strength lies in unity and determination.
Lyric to remember:
“Tomorrow, we’ll be worlds away, and yet with you, my world has started!”
4. “This Is Me” – The Greatest Showman
Though not originally from a Broadway show, this song’s incredible power has earned it a place in the hearts of musical theater lovers everywhere. “This Is Me” celebrates individuality, courage, and embracing all of your imperfections. The chorus, “This is me!” echoes the idea that you should stand tall and proud, no matter the odds.
Lyric to remember:
“When the sharpest words wanna cut me down, I’m gonna send a flood, gonna drown them out!”
5. “My Shot” – Hamilton
Hamilton’s bold, revolutionary energy is exactly the vibe we need right now, and “My Shot” encapsulates the spirit of resilience perfectly. The song speaks to the idea of standing up in the face of oppression, adversity, and fear. It’s a call to arms, a reminder that even in our most difficult moments, we have the power to rise and fight for what we believe in.
Lyric to remember:
“I’m joining the rebellion ’cause I know it’s my chance!”
6. “You Can’t Stop the Beat” – Hairspray
To the people in government who want to strip our rights and bring us back to the dark ages, “You Can’t Stop the Beat” has a message: we’re here, and we aren’t going ANYWHERE. A lively and infectious anthem from Hairspray, this song captures the spirit of defiance and joy. It’s all about embracing your true self, standing up for what’s right, and never allowing anyone or anything to hold you back. (Again, it’s heartbreaking that it’s just as relevant today.) With its upbeat tempo and unstoppable energy, it’s the perfect reminder that you can’t let fear keep you from living your truth.
Lyric to remember:
“You can’t stop the motion of the ocean, or the rain from above!”
7. “You’ll Never Walk Alone” – Carousel
One of the most uplifting and timeless songs in musical theater, “You’ll Never Walk Alone” speaks to the heart of enduring hope and solidarity. It’s a song that gives you encouragement in times of hardship, reminding you that even in your loneliest moments, you are never truly alone. (And friends, you’re not alone. We’re right here with you!) The powerful, comforting message and soaring melody make this a perfect anthem when you’re feeling scared or uncertain.
Lyric to remember:
“Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart, and you’ll never walk alone.”
8. “I Am Here” – The Color Purple
You already know that Cynthia Erivo has a once-in-a-generation voice — and it’s never more impressive than in this powerful song from The Color Purple. It’s a bold, unapologetic proclamation of resilience and self-empowerment. As Celie begins to recognize her own worth, she declares, “I am here, I am here.” It’s a song of overcoming oppression and adversity, of finding the courage to stand up and take space in the world, regardless of the circumstances. It’s a triumph of personal strength and the realization that no matter how small you may feel, you have the power to make a difference.
Lyric to remember:
“I believe I have inside of me everything that I need to live a bountiful life.”
9. “The Next Right Thing” – Frozen II
Okay, so it’s not a stage musical (yet), but this song from Frozen II is about finding the courage to move forward, even when you don’t have all the answers. It reminds you that, even when you’re scared and unsure of the future, doing the “next right thing” is always the best way to keep going. Elsa’s powerful journey toward self-acceptance and courage is a perfect metaphor for anyone needing the confidence to take one small step at a time.
Lyric to remember:
“Just do the next right thing.”
10. “The World Will Know” – Newsies
An incredibly powerful anthem from the musical Newsies, “The World Will Know” is a song about what happens when we band together and stand up for what’s right. It’s a reminder that when you work with others, you have the power to make a change. It’s a great song for moments when you need to channel your courage, stand up for yourself, or speak out for something that matters.
Lyric to remember:
“We’re gonna rise up, and we’ll be heard!”
11. Make Them Hear You – Ragtime
This is one of the most beautiful songs in all of musical theater — and one of the most empowering. The lyrics say it all: we will try again and again until they hear us. Even when the world feels impossible and hard. Even when it seems like so many people are neglecting our rights. We will fight on and MAKE them hear us.
Lyric to remember:
“How justice was our battle, and how justice was denied — make them hear you”
Hold strong, friends! We will survive.