It’s official: Glee is back! I never thought I’d see the day, but with Ryan Murphy, anything is possible. After years of listening to iconic covers, referencing out-of-pocket lines, and replaying Sue Sylvester’s best moments, returning to McKinley High feels like full circle. While the reboot remains in the early stages, fans have big expectations for what’s to come.
‘Glee’ Returns
Glee wouldn’t be Glee without chaos, which is a factor I’m sure a new script will bring. However, throughout the seasons, it became more than that. Glee changed the course of music. The show could turn songs into overnight hits. From Rachel Berry and Kurt Hummel’s Broadway-worthy solos to Artie Abrams and Mr. Shue’s hilarious raps, Glee has a way of turning songs into its own.
Naturally, with all the possibilities on the horizon, I can’t help but think of the role the music of today would have. It’s been over 10 years since the show ended; therefore, cramming 10 years of musical culture into the reboot. While I know it’s impossible to cover them all, here are some of my picks for songs the characters should cover.
Rachel Berry: “vampire”
If there’s one thing Rachel knows how to do, it’s give a powerful ballad. Her dramatic nature and need to succeed have her pouring every emotion (and tear) into her performances. She’s never been one to shy away from a dramatic solo, especially when airing out her personal business. Because of this, I believe Olivia Rodrigo’s “vampire” would be on her set list.
Rachel’s never been afraid to pursue her dreams; in fact, she’s risked it all to get to where she is. No one can get in her way, no matter what. This song could be a direct segue to the journey it’s taken her on to make it big on Broadway.
At such an impressionable age, it can be easy to meet people in the industry who make you feel less than. Singing this song could be a breaking point for Rachel, realizing she can do it on her own, and she’s breaking free from management.
Blaine Anderson: “Man I need”
Blaine Anderson, played by Darren Criss, has to be one of the most talented and versatile vocalists on the show. From emotional ballads to iconic pop themes, there isn’t one song out there that he couldn’t pull a “Kelly Clarkson” on.
It’s honestly difficult to limit his talent to one song, but I want to challenge him to try something new. Olivia Dean’s “Man I Need” would be an amazing addition. There’s something soulful and smooth about this song that we don’t often get to see in Blaine’s performances. I also just love the idea of Blaine singing this to Kurt.
Sue Sylvester: “Sue me”
We can almost never count on Sue to hold herself accountable. She does what she wants and has no care in the world about what comes next. While she rarely sings at McKinley, the times she has were groundbreaking. Audrey Hobert’s “Sue me” is perfect for her. Other than the obvious name connection, “Sue me” really encapsulates how she’s unapologetically herself.
New Directions: “Hot to go!”
Glee isn’t Glee without the iconic group numbers. Those moments where people of different backgrounds and all vocal ranges unite into a song and dance routine will get me every time. Having people come together reminds us of the New Directions we all fell in love with.
My pick for the group number is a catchy tune that’ll get people out of their seats. Enter Chappell Roan’s “HOT TO GO!” This might be the most Glee song yet. Not only is this song appropriate for the times, but I can’t help but think of Kurt and Blaine belting out at the end of the song.
If there’s one thing Glee has taught us, it’s to trust the process. Sometimes the strangest or most unconventional ideas end up being the most memorable. The new generations aren’t ready. Whether it’s a soulful cover of Adele or a dance routine to Katseye, we can count on all the nostalgia that Glee is, and that’s how Sue C’s it!
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