In a delightful surprise for music lovers, classic film aficionados alike and Michael Jackson Fans, the original soundtrack to the 1978 musical The Wiz is now officially available on Spotify for the very first time. This long-awaited release marks a significant cultural moment, especially for fans of Michael Jackson, who delivered unforgettable performances in the movie’s reimagined Wizard of Oz universe.
The Wiz, a Motown-fueled adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s classic tale, featured a predominantly Black cast and brought together an all-star team of talent. Diana Ross took on the role of Dorothy, while a young Michael Jackson mesmerized audiences as the Scarecrow. The soundtrack, a vibrant blend of soul, funk, and disco, remains one of the film’s most powerful legacies.
Songs like “Ease on Down the Road,” “Be a Lion,” and “Home” showcase not only the vocal brilliance of Diana Ross and Michael Jackson, but also the creative genius of producer Quincy Jones and songwriter Charlie Smalls. For decades, fans could only access this music through vinyl records or CDs, but now, it’s finally accessible in high-quality streaming.
Bringing The Wiz soundtrack to Spotify means a new generation can discover (or rediscover) its energetic charm and cultural significance. It also marks a step forward in preserving the contributions of Black artists to musical theatre and pop culture.
So whether you’re easing on down memory lane or hearing it for the first time, turn up the volume. The Wiz is back.
Listen on SPOTIFY.
What? I’ve been listening to that soundtrack on Spotify (and Deezer) for more than 10 years. I guess it was never available in the US?