The film and its soundtrack preach the need to break free from the preconceived roles and stereotypes used by teens to define one another (jock, skaterdude, brain, etc.). That message is central to “Stick to the Status Quo,” during which “the crowd” tries to keep students in a box, only to have them confidently express secret interests. Friends enjoy each other’s company on “Start of Something New” and “What I’ve Been Looking For.” A sugary cheer for unity, “We’re All in This Together” notes that teamwork and spirit will make the world a better place (“Everyone is special in their own way/We make each other strong … when we stand hand in hand”). A hoops star strives to stay focused on the court (“Get’cha Head in the Game”). Mutual support engenders confidence that “there’s not a star in heaven that we can’t reach” on “Breaking Free.”
Teens are encouraged to “shake some booty” and do “anything it takes to climb to the top” (“Bop to the Top”).
It’s no shock that Disney’s record label—known for Lizzie McGuire and That’s So Raven material—would release an airy confection like High School Musical. The pleasant surprise is that this movie soundtrack has ruled the pop chart with perky ditties celebrating friendship, teen empowerment and hope for a bright future. An upbeat treat.
After spending more than two decades touring, directing, writing and producing for Christian theater and radio (most recently for Adventures in Odyssey, which he still contributes to), Bob joined the Plugged In staff to help us focus more heavily on video games. He is also one of our primary movie reviewers.
