On Jan. 20, 2006, “High School Musical” was released on Disney Channel. Bringing in 7.7 million members during its premiere in the United States, the TV movie became extremely popular – leading to a TV sequel in 2007 and a third film that received a theatrical release in 2008. The soundtrack for the first film also received major success – it was named the top-selling album of 2006. The film series also helped cast members, such as Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens, rise to Hollywood status.
The first film celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. To celebrate, here are some of the top musical moments from the film series:
10. “I Don’t Dance”
A duet performed by the unlikely duo, Chad and Ryan. With such big differences, Chad being a basketball player and Ryan being a theatrical performer, who would have thought at the end of the first movie that we would be seeing this in the sequel? “I Don’t Dance” is another great song that, despite its title, makes you want to dance.
9. “The Boys are Back”
How could we leave out this jam by Troy and Chad? The song is upbeat and dance worthy. The scene was also one of the most enjoyable. The choreography was spectacular and young Troy and Chad were a great addition as they reflect back on their childhood! The setting of the old junkyard just made it even better!
8. “Everyday”
The perfect reunion! After watching Troy and Gabriella face obstacles in their relationship all summer, fans were ecstatic to see the two come back together, especially in a musical number. Remember how relieved and happy we felt when Gabriella surprisingly showed up to sing?! The incredible song “Everyday” is another amazing hit from the series.
7. “I Want It All”
“I Want It All” could probably be considered the most theatrical scene of the film. As we watched Ryan and Sharpay sing about their dreams of becoming Broadway stars and East High changes into the sets of places like an airplane and New York City, this scene felt like we were watching a real Broadway musical.
Also, how could a song about what Sharpay wants fit her any better?
6. “Breaking Free”
Remember how nerve-racking it was as we all watched to see whether Troy and Gabriella would make it in time for their callback audition? “Breaking Free” was the scene we all held our breaths for. As we all watched Troy and Gabriella sing their hearts out to secure the roles in the school musical, we couldn’t help but feel warm and excited inside.
5. “Can I Have This Dance”
This musical number performed by Troy and Gabriella on the school rooftops is absolutely enchanting. “Can I Have This Dance” is possibly THE most romantic duet by our favorite couple. The lyrics, the melody, the choreography…. ALL AMAZING.
4. “We’re All in this Together”
This memorable finale to the first film is the hit of the series. A message constantly mentioned throughout all three of the films, “We All in this Together” is one of the most prominent parts of our childhoods. The song still comes to our minds when we hear someone say those words. It had to be included on the list!
3. “Scream”
Troy’s solo in “High School Musical 3” about choosing between Gabriella and basketball may seem a bit dramatic, but let’s admit, we’ve all related to Troy at some point in our lives. “Scream” is an absolute masterpiece that allows you to feel the emotions and passion that Troy feels while performing this song. Let’s not forget the amazing guitar solo for the bridge either.
2. “Gotta Go My Own Way”
The saddest song of many of our childhoods, “Gotta Go My Own Way” is at the same time, an amazing ballad. Witnessing what seems to be the end of Troy and Gabriella’s relationship is heartbreaking, but the melody and Gabriella’s voice are beautiful. Let’s also not forget when Troy shows up at the end to bring even more emotions as he sings, “What about us? What about everything we’ve been through?” THE FEELS.
1. “Bet on It”
The song that everybody loves has become a popular meme. Watching a dramatic Troy work out his life problems on the golf course is just the best. “Bet on It” can probably be considered one of the biggest “High School Musical” hits.
A couple songs that deserve to be mentioned are “High School Musical,” “Right Here, Right Now,” “Getcha Head in the Game,” and “What Time is It?” It was so hard to pick just ten scenes, so we had to mention these here. Let’s not forget “You are the Music in Me” either!
If we’re being honest, we’d put the entire soundtracks for all three films up there. “High School Musical” has too many good songs. They are all still in our heads (and maybe our parents’ heads for some of us) all these years later.
Rebekah Davidson
Intern