Popular

The song 'Popular' from the musical 'Wicked', performed here by the Mexican production, is a playful and satirical take on the concept of popularity and the social pressures to conform to certain standards of beauty and behavior. The lyrics are sung by the character Glinda, who is portrayed as the quintessential 'popular' girl, full of confidence and self-assuredness. She offers to take the less popular Elphaba under her wing, promising to transform her into someone who is socially accepted and liked by teaching her the ways of popularity.

Glinda's approach to popularity is superficial, focusing on external appearances and manipulative social tactics. She talks about advising on fashion choices, flirtatious behavior, and how to interact with potential romantic interests. The song is lighthearted but also carries an undercurrent of critique about the shallow nature of social status and the lengths people go to achieve it. The character's confidence in her ability to make anyone popular underscores the idea that popularity is a skill that can be taught and learned, rather than an innate quality.

The cultural context of the song is important as it reflects the universal desire for acceptance and the value placed on popularity in many societies. It also touches on the idea that being popular often comes at the cost of authenticity, as individuals may feel pressured to change themselves to fit in. The song, while catchy and humorous, invites listeners to reflect on the true meaning of popularity and the importance of staying true to oneself.