‘Wicked: For Good’ Soundtrack to Feature Two New Songs Written by Stephen Schwartz for Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande

For the highly anticipated "Wicked" movie, celebrated composer Stephen Schwartz has crafted two brand-new songs, each performed by one of the film’s stars. Cynthia Erivo, in the role of Elphaba, delivers "No Place Like Home," while Ariana Grande, playing Glinda, sings "The Girl in the Bubble." These original compositions are likely to be eligible for Oscar nominations—unlike the first film’s soundtrack, which rearranged existing songs but introduced no new material. The news arrived alongside the announcement that "Wicked: For Good — The Soundtrack" will launch on November 21, the same day the film opens in theaters.

Schwartz shared his excitement in a statement, explaining that the album not only contains the two new tracks but also includes fresh lyrical and musical additions woven into several Act II numbers from the stage version. “Devotees of the original Broadway cast recording will find plenty to enjoy and rediscover,” he noted. The composer had earlier suggested only one new song was planned, making the inclusion of two a welcome surprise. He also restored "The Wicked Witch of the East," a number cut from the stage show for pacing, which features Marissa Bode, Cynthia Erivo, and Ethan Slater.

Historically, Act II of "Wicked" has offered fewer show-stopping musical moments compared to Act I, though its emotional finale, "For Good," remains an audience favorite. The addition of new solos for Grande and Erivo may help address this imbalance, offering deeper character insight and a more satisfying narrative progression in the film’s second half. The soundtrack opens with "Every Day More Wicked," a title not used on stage but drawn from lyrics in "Thank Goodness," suggesting it may be an extended version of an existing piece rather than an entirely new creation.

The album will be released in several formats, including CD, a two-LP vinyl set, a double picture-disc LP, and digital streaming. Exclusive editions will be available from major retailers: Target will offer a lenticular cover version, while Amazon, Walmart, and Barnes & Noble will each carry unique variants. Pre-orders are currently underway. The full tracklist blends new material with reimagined classics, featuring performances by Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, and Jeff Goldblum, among others.

Stephen Schwartz—the visionary behind landmark musicals such as "Godspell" (1971) and "Pippin" (1972)—has been integral to "Wicked" since its record-breaking Broadway premiere in 2003. His ongoing involvement helps ensure the film remains faithful to the stage production’s heart while broadening its emotional and musical horizons. According to entertainment analyst Mara Jenkins, “Original songs performed by talents of this caliber significantly boost awards visibility, especially for a property with such enduring fan appeal.” This strategic expansion may well position "Wicked" as a major contender during the upcoming awards season.