by Rosa Parra

Lin-Manuel Miranda is one of the most well-known and distinctive songwriters of our time. He is just one Oscar away from achieving PEGOT status (Pulitzer, Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards). Lin has written numerous catchy songs and has established himself as a lyrical genius in our cultural landscape.

Below is a list of my favorite songs that he has written for film or theater. These songs have either stuck with me after their release or made a significant impact on the respective film or play. Spoiler alert: creating this list was one of the most challenging tasks I’ve ever faced. It was difficult to narrow it down with so many great songs to choose from! Ahhhh!

20. “I Always Wanted a Brother” (Mufasa) – This song, featuring the young cubs, is full of innocence and optimism. Its meaning becomes even more poignant when one knows how their story ends.

19. “For the First Time” (The Little Mermaid) – This is the only song from the film that made my list. When Ariel ventures into town and cannot express her awe and amazement, she does so mentally. This song is simply fantastic.

18. “How Far I’ll Go” (Moana) – This Academy Award-nominated song remains one of the most inspirational and memorable songs out there.

17. “The Family Madrigal” (Encanto) – I adore how this song introduces the Madrigal family.

16. “Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story” (Hamilton) – This song collectively captures the essence of what every single one of us experiences in life. We come into this world, live, love, and laugh, but ultimately our stories and lives are passed down to future generations. The question of who tells those stories is the main theme.

15. “96000” (In the Heights) – A catchy song about what many of us have dreamt about at some point in our lives: what we would do if we won the lottery.

14. “Yorktown” (Hamilton) – “Immigrants, we get the job done!”

13. “Inside Your Heart” (Vivo) – Sung by the iconic Gloria Estefan, this beautiful love song is the literal heartbeat of the movie.

12. “The Room Where It Happened” (Hamilton) – The liberties taken in writing this song are undeniable.

11. “Shiny” (Moana) – An underrated song from Moana is sung by the giant crab, Tamatoa, who flaunts his shiny appearance.

10. “Paciencia y Fe” (In The Heights) – This song is incredibly powerful under the vocals of Olga Merediz. The story of Abuela Claudia and her journey to the United States is moving and truly chilling in the context of the film.

9. “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” (Encanto) – The iconic and most memorable song from recent years made my list. It’s not necessarily my favorite from the film, but I cannot deny its cultural impact. It provides the backstory behind Bruno and his absence throughout the movie.

8. “My Shot” (Hamilton) – With its various meanings, this song speaks about seizing opportunities while also alluding to Hamilton’s tragic fate. It is brilliantly written.

7. “One of a Kind” (Vivo) – The introduction of Andres and his beloved kinkajou, Vivo, is simply adorable and heartwarming.

6. “In the Heights” (In the Heights) – The opening song of one of my favorite musicals introduces the recurring characters, the setting, and its main character. The upbeat nature of this introduction is unforgettable.

5. “You’re Welcome” (Moana) – Two simple words that have taken on new meaning. It’s also fitting that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is singing this specific song, showcasing his talent.

4. “Colombia, Mi Encanto” (Encanto) – When the legendary Carlos Vives sings this song, it adds another level of significance. Vives, a well-established Colombian singer, delivers a love letter to his country that is, by far, my favorite song from this film.

3. “The Schuyler Sisters” (Hamilton) – There is nothing more memorable than when three sisters are introduced and leave an impact. Angelica, Eliza, and Peggy showcase their roles in society and individual personalities while simultaneously advocating for progressive treatment of women. Work!

2. “My Own Drum” (Vivo) – When Gabi is asked to behave in a way that doesn’t fit her, she breaks into this wonderful song, explaining why. It’s another catchy tune to keep an eye out for.

1. “Carnaval de Barrio” (In the Heights) – My favorite song from Miranda’s repertoire is an anthem for Latinos. The song plays at a crucial moment when people are moving out of the Heights due to gentrification. It uplifts spirits and reminds everyone of their heritage. It’s a celebration of all Latinos and a reminder of our resilience and sacrifice. I loved seeing the flags flown in such a celebratory manner.