A Definitive Guide to the Sister Act Songs
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Sian McBride
Adapted from the cult 90s film, Sister Act: A Divine Musical Comedy has been blessing us with its presence since its world premiere back in the year of our lord 2006. The musical broke box office records when it first opened at the Pasadena Playhouse, and has since gone on to receive six Olivier and five Tony award nominations, including an Olivier nod to Clive Rowe, who currently stars as the loveable cop, Eddie.
From the self-empowering ‘Fabulous, Baby’ to the heartfelt ‘The Life I Never Led’, the musical's score seamlessly weaves a narrative of friendship, love, and self-discovery. This definitive bible delves into the almighty power of Sister Act's songs, offering insights into their meanings, musicality, and the impact they've had on audiences across the globe.
The most famous Sister Act songs
The heavenly production follows a talented disco diva on the run from her part-time boyfriend, and full-time mob boss, Curtis Jackson. Forced into police protection, Deloris Van Cartier finds herself stuck in a totally unfabulous convent. Unhappy with the arrangement at first, Deloris quickly finds herself singing a different tune (literally) when she is put in charge of the nuns' flailing choir. Music helps her bond with her Sisters and gives her, and the convent, a new sense of purpose and new lease of life.
As you can imagine for a show centred around the power of music, the Sister Act songs performed by the talented West End a talented cast, have become cherished favourites among theatregoers. Each song is unique to the musical and plays a crucial role in advancing the narrative, by providing emotional depth to the characters in the award winning show. But don’t just take our word for it, hear the incredible Sister Act songs for yourself when you visit London’s Dominion Theatre this summer.
What is the biggest hit from Sister Act?
The most recognisable songs from the Sister Act hymn book are ‘Fabulous, Baby’ and ‘Take Me to Heaven’. In fact, Sister Act fans love these songs so much that each of these numbers has a reprise in the second act!
What songs does Deloris Van Cartier sing in Sister Act?
Deloris Van Cartier is a fabulous club singer-cum-choir leader, so it’s no surprise that she has a LOT of numbers throughout the musical. Her solos in the show include ‘Take Me to Heaven’, ‘Fabulous, Baby’ and ‘Sister Act’. The disco diva is backed up by the nuns and Mother Superior in the songs ‘It’s Good to be a Nun’, ‘Raise Your Voice’, and ‘Bless Our Show’ too.
What is the last song of Sister Act?
The final song of the heavenly hit is a reprise of ‘Raise Your Voice’, which is performed by the entire company.
Take Me to Heaven
Fun and flirtatious, ‘Take Me to Heaven’ is our first introduction to rising star Deloris Van Cartier. Much like the luxury jewellery she’s named herself after, Cartier shines on stage in a purple sequined mini dress and knee high boots. Set in her boyfriend's nightclub, her self-penned song reflects her desire for excitement, love, and a glamorous life,and showcases her talent as a performer, as well as her dynamic and lively personality.
Fabulous Baby
If ‘Take Me To Heaven’ didn’t already prove that Deloris is a powerhouse not to be messed with, then ‘Fabulous, Baby’ definitely will. When her boyfriend, Jackson, gives Deloris a second-hand Christmas present, she responds with this ultimate self empowerment song. The upbeat number is bold and self-assured, reflecting Deloris's larger-than-life persona and her belief in her own greatness. She sings about her aspirations for stardom and her belief that she is destined for a fabulous life beyond her current circumstances.
The Perfect Place
Deloris reflects on her unexpected journey and how she has found a sense of belonging and purpose in the convent. The nuns join in, expressing their newfound confidence and joy in their singing and community. The song highlights the transformative power of music and friendship, as well as the theme of finding one's true home in unexpected places. It is a heartwarming and uplifting number that underscores the central message of the musical: that love, acceptance, and unity can create a perfect place for everyone.
Here Within These Walls
Sung in response to Deloris’s arrival, Mother Superior’s poignant and introspective number provides insight into her character, and her perspective on convent life. Performed in a gentle and earnest style, it’s a stark contrast to the earlier solos, and reflects the solemnity of convent life.
It’s Good to Be a Nun
Lighthearted and humorous, ‘It’s Good to Be a Nun’ highlights the camaraderie among the nuns, as well as providing a glimpse into the daily life within the convent. It celebrates the nuns' dedication and the fulfilment they find in their spiritual commitment, while also setting the stage for the transformative journey that Deloris and the choir will undergo. Well, we can’t imagine Deloris joining in with the ‘Joy of waking up at four A.M, right on the dot’ can you?
When I Find My Baby
Menacing and comically sinister, ‘When I Find My Baby’ is performed by ex-boyfriend Jackson and his henchman. The song reflects Jackson's anger and desire for revenge, and is characterised by its driving rhythm, catchy melody, and energetic vocals. The dark number creates a sense of urgency and danger, and establishes the stakes for Deloris if her ex catches her.
I Could Be That Guy
Eddie, a policeman with a crush on Deloris, dreams of becoming the kind of man she could love, showing his vulnerable and hopeful side. Eddie's longing for Deloris reflects a universal desire for connection and acceptance, while his struggle with self-doubt highlights the importance of embracing one's true identity.
Here Within These Walls (Reprise)
The reprise of "Here Within These Walls" gives space for Mother Superior to reflect on the changes Deloris has brought to the convent, and her mixed feelings about the disruption and revitalization. It showcases her capacity for introspection, and her seeming willingness to embrace change and growth, though it is still hard for her to accept and act on.
Raise Your Voice
Uplifting and motivational, ‘Raise Your Voice’ is a pivotal song in the show, and is a rallying cry for courage and confidence. Deloris encourages the choir of nuns to sing with their heart, instilling pride and self-worth into the shy sisters, and by doing so transforming their hesitant and off-key singing into a powerful choir.
Take Me to Heaven (Reprise)
The nuns perform a gospel version of Deloris's nightclub hit during a church service, impressing the congregation and attracting new members to the church. The spirited vocal harmonies create a sense of unity, and celebrate the power of faith and friendship.
Sunday Morning Fever
The nuns, inspired by Deloris, bring an energetic and joyous gospel style to their Sunday service, revitalising the church's community. A vibrant and uplifting song, ‘Sunday Morning Fever’ celebrates the communal experience of worship, and shows off the choir's newfound confidence, unity, and passion for music.
Lady in the Long Black Dress
Jackson's hapless henchmen outline their plan to infiltrate the convent in disguise to capture Deloris, through song, naturally. The darkly comic number heightens the suspense and drama, reinforcing the stakes for Deloris as she navigates the dangers of her new life in hiding.
I Haven’t Got a Prayer
In her third solo, Mother Superior expresses her feelings of being overwhelmed as she tries to maintain control, and uphold the convent's strict rules. The song captures her inner turmoil and the conflict between her duty to the convent, and her resistance to Deloris's changes. The lyrics are both poignant and funny, showcasing Mother Superior's wit and the depth of character.
Bless Our Show
Deloris prays for the success of the choir's upcoming performance for the Pope, highlighting her growing connection to the nuns and the convent. The lyrics are reverent and sincere, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to perform and a desire to uplift and inspire their audience.
The Life I Never Led
Sister Mary Robert, the youngest and most withdrawn of the nuns, sings about her suppressed aspirations and dreams in this deeply moving and heartfelt solo. introspective and emotive, the song expresses her inner turmoil and yearning for a life of adventure and self-discovery. The powerful, yet deeply vulnerable number, highlights her courage as she begins to confront her own fears and limitations.
Fabulous, Baby (Reprise)
The lyrics of the reprise echo the themes of the original song, celebrating individuality, confidence, and the joy of self-expression. Deloris reaffirms her dreams of stardom but now with a deeper understanding of what truly matters in life, showcasing her character growth.
Sister Act
The titular song of the show, Deloris sings about the unexpected sense of purpose and belonging she has found with the nuns, celebrating her transformation and new identity. The show-stopping number serves as an exuberant anthem of solidarity and camaraderie with her new life-long friends at the convent.
When I Find My Baby (Reprise)
Jackson reiterates his determination to find Deloris. The tone remains menacing, and wickedly funny as he describes, in great detail, the lengths he will go to exact his revenge, and maintain control over his criminal operations. It serves to remind the audience of the danger Deloris is in, and the stakes involved if she is discovered.
The Life I Never Led (Reprise)
The lyrics of the reprise echo the themes of the original song but with a stronger sense of determination and empowerment. Sister Mary Robert's voice is more confident, symbolising her transformation from a hesitant follower to someone ready to take charge of her destiny. The song highlights her personal growth and the impact Deloris has had on her and the other nuns.
Sister Act (Reprise)
Energetic and uplifting, the reprise mirrors the celebratory tone of the original song, but with an added layer of resolution and joy. It serves as a culmination of the characters' growth and the positive changes they have effected in each other's lives. The lyrics of the reprise underscore the unity, friendship, and mutual support that have developed among the characters. Deloris's influence has brought a new vibrancy to the convent, while the nuns' acceptance and love have helped her discover a deeper sense of fulfilment and community.
Spread the Love Around
The penultimate song of the show, Deloris and the nuns celebrate the positive changes they have brought to each other and their community, encapsulating the musical's uplifting message.
Raise Your Voice
An uplifting and triumphant number that embodies the essence of the musical's message: that everyone has a voice worth hearing, and through support and encouragement, people can achieve remarkable things together. It provides a moment of celebration and resolution, highlighting the success of Deloris and the nuns in transforming their choir and themselves.
Book Sister Act tickets today!
Reading about the iconic Sister Act songs is one thing, but hearing them at the Dominion Theatre is something else! Book your official tickets today, and experience the heavenly hits for yourself.