Top 10 Broadway Songs with Harmonies That Give Us Chills
#10: Anything the Fates Sing
“Hadestown”
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Every time the company unites for “Wait for Me,” an electric charge runs through the theater. However, The Fates’ harmonies steal the show. They do a phenomenal job of hitting those emotional moments right on the mark. Their voices blend so smoothly, creating haunting melodies that fit perfectly with the themes of fate, loss, and longing that run deep throughout the show while drawing us deeper into its emotional core. The blend of their powerful voices and stunning overlaying harmonies create an intricate and breathtaking tapestry of sound that will keep your hair on end long after the curtain call. Just listen to “Nothing Changes,” and you’ll see what we mean.
#9: “Will I?”
“Rent”
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“Will I?” is truly one of the most touching tracks on the “Rent” soundtrack. It delves into the anxieties of individuals in a Life Support group facing the challenges of living with AIDS and their uncertain futures. Apparently, Jonathan Larson drew on his own experiences of sitting in on a similar meeting and initially even named characters after friends he lost to the epidemic. With its emotional depth and heartrending melodies, this song digs deep into your core and takes a firm hold of your heart. We hear it again in “Finale B.” However, this time, it’s intertwined with the show’s message to cherish the present because tomorrow is never guaranteed. Goosebumps galore.
#8: “Shadowland”
“The Lion King”
At this point in the show, Scar has taken over the Pride Lands, and seeing no hope in her future there, Nala decides to seek refuge elsewhere. She tells the other Lionesses her plans, and they respond with the most stunning counterpoint harmonies, both joining Nala in mourning this former sanctuary while giving her their blessings. It features a mix of traditional African beats and musical theatre compositions while Nala and the Lionesses sing both English lyrics and Zulu chants. However, it’s the way the ensemble’s vocals interact with Nala’s that makes this number soar. Despite the anguish of their situation, this is still their fight song. It can make even the bushiest of manes stand on end.
#7: “Those You've Known”
“Spring Awakening”
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After learning his sweetheart Wendla’s pregnant with his child, Melchior returns to town, hoping to meet her at the cemetery. However, he’s heartbroken to find her name on a headstone and contemplates taking his own life. Yet, the spirits of Wendla and his friend Moritz appear, urging him to live on in their memory. The trio’s counterpoints call back to earlier events, weaving them together as they lead to this pivotal juncture. The delicate mix of bittersweetness, heart-wrenching arrangements, and moving vocal performances holds the audience long after the final note fades. Seamlessly transitioning into the finale, “The Song of Purple Summer,” instills hope for a brighter tomorrow while a tingling sensation keeps us glued to our seats.
#6: “Flying Away (Finale)”
“Fun Home”
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The show’s finale feels like hopping on a musical time machine, linking together different parts of Alison’s life. As she faces her past and looks to the future, the harmonies beat at the heart of the number, reminding us of the show's most intense and touching moments. When Alison immortalizes her father in her graphic novel, we can feel the weight of her emotions pouring out. Though it’s her personal journey, the themes of self-acceptance and finding closure hit home for everyone. Jeanine Tesori and Lisa Kron really nail the universality of these notions. The number hits its peak as Alison finally captions a pivotal memory, capturing every emotion this song stirs up.
#5: “Tonight (Quintet & Chorus)”
“West Side Story”
This Quintet is like a lightning bolt in a small package. The Sharks and Jets are gearing up for their rumble; Anita’s bubbling with excitement for her date with Bernardo, and Tony and Maria are lost in the bliss of their romantic duet. As the song rolls on, the vocal lines start to intertwine, ramping up the anticipation for the night ahead. It crescendos into a breathtaking choral section, blending all five parts seamlessly. The arrangements strike a perfect balance, ensuring no voice totally eclipses the others. By the time everyone unites for the final climactic “Tonight,” our hearts pound as if we’ve been running a marathon while chills race up and down our spines.
#4: “Sunday”
“Sunday in the Park with George”
Stephen Sondheim’s harmonies are known for stirring deep emotions – just try listening to “No One Is Alone” from “Into the Woods” without getting chills – it’s nearly impossible. However, if you want a Sondheim classic that will raise those little hairs so high you’ll look like you’ve had a static shock, might we suggest “Sunday” from “Sunday in the Park with George.” Like Georges Seurat’s famous painting, the harmonies here layer colors to create depth and emotion. Each chord is like a brushstroke, adding richness and texture. The song builds slowly, mirroring the careful movements of a painter, culminating in a climactic chorus that feels like the finishing touches on a masterpiece.
#3: “Gold (A Cappella)”
“Once”
In 2011, much of the beloved soundtrack of the 2007 film “Once” was brought to life on Broadway, offering audiences the chance to experience its magic live. In one of its most breathtaking yet slept-upon moments, the ensemble reprises the song “Gold,” but this time in a capella. While the original is stunning, there’s just something so moving and almost hypnotic about this version. Stripped of instrumentation and solely relying on the raw talent of its cast, the song’s emotion is amplified enough to reverberate across all of Ireland. As it comes to a close, we feel like we need a second interval just to let the quiet greatness of the song wash over us.
#2: “Finale - Do You Hear The People Sing? (Reprise)”
“Les Misérables”
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“Les Mis’” music is celebrated for its emotional depth and magnetic melodies, offering moments of beauty amidst the misery. “A Heart Full of Love” delicately explores the complexities of a love triangle. Meanwhile, “One Day More” mesmerizes with its dynamic shifts and powerful ending. However, the show saves the most chill-inducing number for last. As Jean Valjean’s life reaches its end, his voice blends with Fantine and Eponine’s in an ethereal harmony. Yet, before the goosebumps can fade, the company joins together for a stirring reprise of “Do You Hear the People Sing?” The swelling anthem pulses with energy, transcending theater walls to touch all hearts. It’s enough to make you want to grab a flag and join the chorus.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“First Date / Last Night,” “Dogfight”
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“You Will Be Found” “Dear Evan Hansen”
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“A Step Too Far,” “Aida”
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“Once and for All,” “Newsies”
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“Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story,” “Hamilton”
So Many Gorgeous Harmonies, If You Don’t Have Chills by the End, Were You Even Listening?
#1: “Prayer”
“Come From Away”
“Come From Away” tells the story of travelers stranded after 9/11 and the kind folks in Gander, Newfoundland, who took them in. In a time when differences in religion and culture seem to pull us apart, Irene Sankoff and David Hein composed a beautiful piece that reminds us of our shared humanity. Their music bridges language and faith barriers, blending prayers from different beliefs into a universal call for peace. It’s a powerful reminder that, deep down, we all long for peace and harmony, regardless of our backgrounds. Even the staunchest atheist cannot remain unmoved by its sheer emotional resonance. We just need to think about this positive and life-affirming tune, and yep, there go the tingles.
Which Broadway song sends your chills into the stratosphere? Let us know in the comments.
