[Galinda:]
Elphie, now that we’re friends, I’ve decided to make you my new project
[Elphaba:]
Oh, you really don’t have to do that
[Galinda:]
I know!
That’s what makes me so nice
Whenever I see someone less fortunate than I
And let’s face it, right? 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
Though 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, ooh!
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 become 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 be
Instead of dreary who-you-were
Well, are!
There’s nothing that can stop you from becoming populer… —lar!
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 especially great communicators
Did they have brains or knowledge?
Don’t make me laugh
They were
[Elphaba:]
Popular
[Galinda:]
Right!
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, me
And though you protest
Your disinterest
I know clandestinely
You’re gonna grin and bear it, your newfound popularity
Woo!
La-la, la-la
La-la, la-la
La-la, ooh
You’ll be popular
Just not quite as popular as me
A Playful Take on Popularity
“Popular” by Ariana Grande is a vibrant reimagining of a classic musical number, blending wit and charm as it explores the concept of popularity. The lyrics follow Galinda as she offers to transform Elphaba into someone “popular,” highlighting social norms, peer influence, and the often humorous lengths people go to fit in. The song cleverly balances satire and sincerity, poking fun at the superficial markers of popularity while also exposing the universal desire for acceptance. Ariana Grande’s rendition brings fresh energy, making the narrative both modern and relatable.
Beneath the Surface
Beyond its catchy melody and playful wordplay, “Popular” invites listeners to reflect on the pressures of conformity and the idea that popularity is more about perception than substance. The dynamic between Galinda and Elphaba showcases the complexities of friendship, self-acceptance, and the courage to stand out, turning a seemingly light-hearted song into a thoughtful social commentary.
Song Credits
- Songwriters: Stephen Schwartz
- Performed by: Ariana Grande