Broadway Jukebox: The Greatest Jukebox Musicals

Did you know that Broadway gained four jukebox musicals this spring season? The Who's Tommy returned after three decades featuring music from the band's iconic concept album; Sufjan Stevens' 2005 album Illinoise comes to life on stage in the musical of the same name; the music of Huey Lewis and the News is set to The Heart of Rock and Roll; and Alicia Keys' vast catalogue is covered in Hell's Kitchen.

What is a Jukebox Musical?

A jukebox musical is a type of theatrical production that features pre-existing popular songs as the basis for its music and story. It typically incorporates well-known songs from a particular artist, band, or era and weaves them into a narrative, sometimes with the lyrics serving as dialogue or commentary. The storyline of a jukebox musical is crafted around the selected songs, creating a cohesive theatrical experience that resonates with audiences through familiarity and nostalgia. 

While we await new cast recordings from this season's new jukebox musicals, check out 70 of our favorite songs from jukebox musicals like: Rock of Ages, Ain't Too Proud, Motown, MJ, Beautiful, The Cher Show, American Idiot, Moulin Rouge!, A Beautiful Noise, Jagged Little Pill, and so many more!

Did we miss one of your favorites? Tell us which song from a jukebox musical stands out to you.

Want more showtunes? Study up on Broadway history with music from the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, 2010s and 2020s. Check out our favorite Overtures, Opening numbers, 'I Want' songs, Act 1 finales, Act 2 openers, 11 o'clock numbers, and Finales. And study up on the basics of Broadway with Broadway 101, Broadway 201, Broadway 301, Broadway 401, and Never on Broadway.

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