Paddington the Musical has taken the West End by storm since opening back in November 2025. Based on the classic books and beloved 2014 movie, Paddington the Musical follows a bear called Paddington who wants to find the explorer. Whilst in London, he discovers where he belongs in the world: finding a family. The show is consistently sold out and continues to receive rave reviews: being the most popular West End show on Mezzanine. With the cast album releasing today (10th April), I thought it would be interesting to choose the top 10 songs from the show.
10: It’s Never Too Late Pt. 1 and Pt. 2
Mrs Bird takes to the stage to sing to Grant about how life is never too late to change, making him consider his role in the story so far. The legendary actress Bonnie Langford gets to sing this song alongside Tarinn Callender. This track is very uplifting: being fun to listen too!
9: Don’t Touch That
The Brown family has invited Paddington back to their home, where he is overjoyed by all the belongings. He goes forth and touches all the objects in the house, whilst the family attempt to stop him breaking everything. This works as a great group number to learn more about the family, whilst having a consistent tune of ‘don’t touch that’.
8: One of Us
After some conflict between Paddington and Mr Brown, Mrs Brown sings about how Paddington is ‘one of them’. The mixed layers add lots of vocal opportunities in this song, with some beautiful vocals by Amy Ellen Richardson, who also sounds amazing in ‘One Page at a Time’.
7: Missing Beat
Towards the end of the show, the found family on stage sing about how Paddington was their missing beat. I enjoy how this song links back to earlier ones in the show, such as The Rhythm of London, making for a fantastic pre-finale song to the entire show. It also has a great melody which are a pleasure to listen too!
6: Marmalade
Marmalade is a joyful ballad to the favourable sandwich filler that Paddington loves to eat. This song was released prior to the cast album to celebrate World Book Day 2026. Though the song is repetitive, it is extremely catchy: making you want to sing ‘ma ma ma marmalade’ for the rest of the day!
5: I’ve Arrived
Paddington arrives in London and eagerly tries to find somewhere to go, though most of the people are not very friendly. Later in the song, the Browns return and meet Paddington. This song works well at introducing the characters, with a great consistent hook of ‘lucy, lucy lucy, I’ve arrived’: which is fun to sing along too!
4: Hard Stare
Paddington is well known for his ‘hard stare’ and this song discusses what this means and when you should use it. Tom Fletcher’s music here is the most similar to his McFly days, adding a bit of a rock pop feel. This song allows James Hameed to show his brilliant vocals, just ahead of his ballad!
3: Rhythm of London
Tony and Tanya introduce Paddington the wonders of London, trying to find the rhythm to join in. The song allows for Timi Akinyosade and Brenda Edwards to show great vocals whilst having a great rhythm in itself. We did have a preview of this song from the cast recording late last year, and I’ve loved it ever since!
2: Pretty Little Dead Things
Victoria Hamilton-Barritt shows some incredible musical theatre vocals in this song! Millicent Clyde sings about her passion for ‘pretty little dead things’ and how she wants a Peruvian Bear to add to her collection. This song was also released early, which has allowed us to enjoy the song for a lot longer than some of the others. Regardless, it is still an fantastic song and brings real villain energy.
1: The Explorer and the Bear
The first song released from this show is still my favourite, with a fantastic ballad written by Tom Fletcher. Paddington discusses his life once he finds the explorer and how they make the perfect pair. James Hameed has the most sensational vocals in this song, really allowing Paddington’s emotions to soar through the lyrics. It is one of the best new musical theatre songs I’ve heard in a long time.
Max
Leave a Reply