Chris Villain’s cover proves treat art isn’t confined by tradition.
Sometimes, defying gravity just means daring to land in uncharted territory
New York, N.Y. — Since its 2003 debut, Wicked’s show-stopping anthem “Defying Gravity” has become a cultural touchstone, synonymous with empowerment and rebellion. Originally written for Elphaba, the misunderstood “Wicked Witch of the West” (traditionally played by a woman), the song’s soaring vocals and themes of liberation have inspired countless covers.
Yet in a twist worthy of the musical itself, male performers have increasingly claimed the song as their own—defying not just gravity but gendered expectations in the process.
From Broadway to Boycotting Norms
Composed by Stephen Schwartz, “Defying Gravity” was crafted to showcase Elphaba’s metamorphosis from ostracized outcast to defiant heroine. Actresses like Idina Menzel and Cynthia Erivo have made the role iconic, but the song’s universal message—“It’s time to try defying gravity”—has transcended its origins. Enter a wave of male artists reimagining the powerhouse ballad, often adding raw vulnerability or theatrical flair.
Simon Cowell Impersonators and Viral Moments
The trend took a playful turn on Britain’s Got Talent in 2019, when contestant Jonathan Goodwin, a Simon Cowell impersonator, swapped snarky critiques for a surprise performance of “Defying Gravity.” Clad in Cowell’s signature tight T-shirt and deadpan demeanor, Goodwin’s act blurred parody and passion, earning a standing ovation and headlines like “Simon Sings Schwartz!” The clip went viral, proving the song’s adaptability—and its knack for upending expectations.
Chris Villain’s DIY Triumph
Among the most celebrated male covers is Chris Villain’s self-produced rendition, a tour de force blending vocal prowess with cinematic storytelling. Filmed in a moody, industrial setting, Villain’s 2020 YouTube video reinterprets the song as a gritty battle cry, swapping Elphaba’s broomstick for brooding visuals and a rock-infused arrangement.
His soaring falsetto and emotional delivery struck a chord, amassing nearly 200,000 views and comments praising his “chills-inducing” take. Fans and theater bloggers alike have dubbed it “the definitive male cover,” with one user writing, “He didn’t just sing it—he reclaimed it.”
Why Male Covers Resonate
The rise of male “Defying Gravity” covers reflects broader shifts in how audiences engage with musical theater. Social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok have democratized performance, allowing artists to reinterpret roles traditionally bound by gender.
For some male singers, tackling the song is a technical challenge—navigating its demanding range (originally written for a mezzo-soprano) requires creative key changes or vocal hybridity. For others, it’s a political statement, queering a narrative about societal rejection.
“Theatre is about empathy, not gender,” argues vocal coach Mariah Jensen. “When a man sings Elphaba’s struggle, it underscores that her fight against labels isn’t just a ‘witch’s’ story—it’s everyone’s.”
Controversy and Celebration
Not all reactions have been positive. Purists argue that male covers dilute the song’s feminist roots, while others accuse performers of “stunt singing.” Yet many fans, including LGBTQ+ advocates, champion the trend as a celebration of fluidity. “Elphaba’s an outsider—why gatekeep her anthem?” tweeted Broadway composer Andrew Lippa in 2022.
As Wicked heads to the big screen in 2024 with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, “Defying Gravity” continues to evolve. From drag bars to college recitals, its legacy lies in its ability to inspire anyone brave enough to rise—regardless of who they are, or how high the notes.
Defying Expectations: How Wicked Anthem Soars Beyond Gender, Tradition (March 3, 2025)
Discover more from The Stewardship Report
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
