10 Best Musical Television Shows Ranked

The Rhythmic World of Musical TV Shows: A Top 10 Countdown

From toe-tapping tunes to heart-rending melodies, the world of musical TV shows has enchanted audiences worldwide. In this countdown, we explore the highs, the lows, and the unforgettable moments of the 10 best musical TV shows that have graced our screens. So, get ready to embark on a musical journey that transcends genres, as we delve into the captivating realm of song, dance, and drama.

Table of Contents

1. Glee (2009) – A Harmonious Blend of Music and Social Impact

In 2009, the musical TV series Glee burst onto the scene, leaving an indelible mark on the television landscape. Reverberating with groundbreaking impact, Glee seamlessly wove musical theatrics with pressing social issues, notably LGBTQ+ representation. The show dared to tackle daring plotlines, delivering memorable musical numbers such as the iconic “Don’t Stop Believin’.” Its cultural significance in portraying gay teens and celebrating uniqueness inspired a wave of future shows to embrace diversity.

2. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (2015) – A Musical Comedy with Heart

Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, a 2015 musical comedy series co-created and performed by Rachel Bloom, takes the runner-up spot. The show follows Rebecca Bunch, a New York lawyer who impulsively moves to California, chasing her high school crush. What sets Crazy Ex-Girlfriend apart is its empathetic portrayal of mental illness, specifically borderline personality disorder. Through engaging musical numbers and complex character development, the show masterfully blends comedy, tragedy, and musical performance while exploring mental health with nuance.

3. Flight Of The Conchords (2007) – Quirky Adventures in Pursuit of Fame

The fantastic HBO show Flight of the Conchords claims the third spot, taking us on the quirky adventures of two New Zealand musicians seeking fame in New York. Starring Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie, the series combines low-budget charm with refreshing self-awareness. The duo’s escapades, accompanied by their distinctive musical stylings, deliver a delightful viewing experience. Fans clamor for more, and a potential Flight of the Conchords reunion has been teased by Murray actor Rhys Darby.

4. The Monkees (1966) – A Unique Blend of TV and Music Phenomenon

The iconic ’60s show The Monkees grabs the fourth spot, offering a unique blend of television and music. Initially conceived as a fake American band in response to The Beatles’ success, The Monkees evolved into a genuine musical phenomenon. With slapstick comedy and iconic ’60s music, the show, starring the band in two seasons, remains a classic loved by audiences of all ages.

5. High School Musical: The Musical: The Series (2019) – A Disney+ Revival

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series secures the fifth position, marking the 2019 Disney+ revival of the classic High School Musical movies. The series, spanning four seasons, follows East High School students as they navigate personal lives and musical productions. Exploring high school drama, relationship anxieties, and queer dynamics, the show provides a nuanced blend of teenage angst and show business glitz. Notably, it catapulted Olivia Rodrigo to pop stardom.

6. Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist (2020) – A Musical Dramedy with a Twist

Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, released in 2020, lands in the sixth spot with its unique premise. Following Zoey, who gains the ability to hear people’s hidden emotions through song after an MRI accident, the show exudes optimism. While the musical selections occasionally verge on the nose, the series explores complex issues of grief, gender fluidity, and illness with stoicism. An entertaining watch that seamlessly combines music with the exploration of unspoken emotions.

7. Galavant (2015) – A Whimsical, Song-Filled Adventure

ABC’s fairy-tale musical comedy Galavant strides into the seventh position, offering a whimsical, song-filled adventure. Despite struggling with low ratings, the show cleverly combines fantasy satire with musical performances. Galavant humorously deconstructs fairy-tale tropes with jest and wit, making it one of the most underrated shows of the last decade. Available on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+.

8. Empire (2015) – Hip-Hop Drama with a Dash of Intrigue

Empire, a hip-hop drama that debuted in 2015, claims the eighth spot. The show narrates a power struggle within a musical family, initially captivating fans and critics with a Shakespearean battle for control of Empire Entertainment. While the first season was a hit, subsequent seasons lost themselves in far-fetched storylines. Despite some revival in season three, Empire concluded without a season finale airing.

9. Smash (2012) – A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Musical Theater

Smash, a 2012 musical TV drama, takes the ninth position, providing a behind-the-scenes look at musical theater. While boasting fantastic music, excellent casting, and even Steven Spielberg as an executive producer, Smash falls short due to clichés, boring plotlines, and melodrama. The series delves into the challenges faced by musical theater actors juggling stage careers with their personal lives.

10. Nashville (2012) – Country Music Drama with Feminist Undertones

Nashville rounds up the top 10, presenting a musical drama set in the country music scene. Initially exploring the intriguing rivalry between country music stars Rayna James and Juliette Barnes with depth, the show lost its substance in later seasons. Descent into soapiness, accidents, love triangles, and melodrama contributed to its decline. Despite fantastic performances, Nashville ultimately lost its charm.

Conclusion: A Symphony of Diverse Musical TV Experiences

In conclusion, the world of musical TV shows is a vibrant symphony of diverse experiences. From the groundbreaking cultural impact of Glee to the nuanced exploration of mental health in Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, each show on this top 10 list has left an indelible mark on the genre. Whether you’re a fan of classic ’60s humor in The Monkees or seeking a modern Disney+ revival in High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, these shows offer a variety of musical delights. So, tune in, turn up the volume, and let the musical journey begin!