The Best Audition Songs for Escape to Margaritaville (By Character)

Auditioning for a role in “Escape to Margaritaville” presents a unique opportunity to channel the carefree spirit of Jimmy Buffett’s music while diving into rich character narratives set against a tropical backdrop. This musical blends romance, adventure, and humor in a setting that allows for vivid storytelling through song. Whether you’re aiming to portray the laid-back Tully, the ambitious Rachel, or any of the vibrant supporting characters, your song choice at the audition can profoundly influence your portrayal. This blog post provides tailored song suggestions for each character, designed to enhance your performance and resonate with the thematic elements of the musical. From classic hits to lesser-known gems, these songs will help you capture the essence of your character and stand out in your audition.

Tully

1. “Come Monday” by Jimmy Buffett – Captures the sentimental side of a laid-back lifestyle.
2. “Island in the Sun” by Weezer – Reflects a carefree, tropical lifestyle.
3. “Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson – A song about escaping the busy world, perfect for Tully’s easygoing nature.
4. “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz – A lighthearted and warm love song that fits Tully’s charming persona.
5. “Upside Down” by Jack Johnson – Reflects a fun, carefree approach to life.
6. “Knee Deep” by Zac Brown Band feat. Jimmy Buffett – Perfect for showcasing a beachy, relaxed attitude.
7. “Son of a Son of a Sailor” by Jimmy Buffett – Fits the nautical and wanderlust themes related to Tully’s life.

Rachel

1. “Brighter Than the Sun” by Colbie Caillat – Upbeat and optimistic, much like Rachel’s disposition.
2. “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield – Reflects Rachel’s ambition and her focus on the future.
3. “Roar” by Katy Perry – A strong, empowering song that mirrors Rachel’s determination.
4. “Science & Faith” by The Script – A song that cleverly blends romance with a respect for science, suitable for Rachel’s character.
5. “Dog Days Are Over” by Florence and The Machine – Emphasizes liberation and joy, aligning with Rachel’s journey.
6. “Pocketful of Sunshine” by Natasha Bedingfield – Captures Rachel’s need to break free and find happiness.
7. “Try Everything” by Shakira – Highlights Rachel’s adventurous spirit and willingness to take risks.

Brick

1. “Riptide” by Vance Joy – A quirky and fun song that fits Brick’s personality.
2. “Banana Wind” by Jimmy Buffett – Another laid-back, Buffett-style song ideal for Brick.
3. “Flake” by Jack Johnson – Reflects Brick’s easygoing and somewhat unpredictable nature.
4. “Accidentally in Love” by Counting Crows – Perfect for a light-hearted and spontaneous character like Brick.
5. “Everybody Talks” by Neon Trees – A lively track that can match Brick’s energetic side.
6. “Bubbly” by Colbie Caillat – Emphasizes a sweet and likable nature, similar to Brick’s demeanor.
7. “One Love” by Bob Marley – Captures the communal and friendly vibe of Brick.

Tammy

1. “White Houses” by Vanessa Carlton – Discusses growth and change, reflecting Tammy’s journey.
2. “Suddenly I See” by KT Tunstall – Represents Tammy’s realization of her own value and potential.
3. “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten – An empowering anthem perfect for Tammy’s transformative arc.
4. “Follow Your Arrow” by Kacey Musgraves – Encourages living true to oneself, fitting for Tammy’s character development.
5. “Firework” by Katy Perry – A powerful song about realizing one’s inner strength.
6. “Wide Open Spaces” by Dixie Chicks – Speaks to the need for personal exploration and independence.
7. “Breakaway” by Kelly Clarkson – Symbolizes Tammy’s desire to break free from restrictions and find her own path.

Marley

1. “Son of a Preacher Man” by Dusty Springfield – For a strong, mysterious woman with a backstory.
2. “Chain of Fools” by Aretha Franklin – Reflects Marley’s tough and resilient side.
3. “Tin Man” by Miranda Lambert – A song with depth and emotion, suitable for Marley’s complex character.
4. “You Know I’m No Good” by Amy Winehouse – Perfect for a strong, flawed, and enigmatic female character.
5. “Black Velvet” by Alannah Myles – Combines a sense of mystery and strength.
6. “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac – Offers emotional depth, reflecting Marley’s life experiences and wisdom.
7. “Back to Black” by Amy Winehouse – Suits a character with a rich past and a touch of sorrow.

J.D.

1. “Southern Cross” by Crosby, Stills & Nash – Reflects J.D.’s adventurous spirit and life experiences.
2. “Sailing” by Christopher Cross – Captures the sense of freedom and reflection, ideal for a character like J.D. who has a rich history.
3. “A Pirate Looks at Forty” by Jimmy Buffett – Perfect for an older character looking back on his life with a mixture of regret and acceptance.
4. “Cool Change” by Little River Band – Emphasizes the reflective nature of J.D., who’s considering the different phases of his life.
5. “Into the Mystic” by Van Morrison – A song that captures the soulful and mysterious side of J.D.’s personality.
6. “Old Man” by Neil Young – Speaks to the wisdom and the passage of time, fitting for J.D.’s role as a mentor-like figure.
7. “Tequila Sunrise” by The Eagles – A song that combines the feeling of ending and reflection, suitable for J.D.’s contemplative nature.

Jamal

1. “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley – For a laid-back and optimistic character, this song’s reassuring message fits well.
2. “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers – Captures Jamal’s positive outlook and the soothing effect he has on others.
3. “Bright Side of the Road” by Van Morrison – An upbeat, feel-good song that reflects Jamal’s ability to see the good in situations.
4. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams – A modern tune that matches Jamal’s upbeat and cheerful disposition.
5. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and The Waves – Ideal for showcasing Jamal’s energetic and positive vibes.
6. “Island in the Sun” by Harry Belafonte – A song that exudes tropical warmth and happiness, aligning with Jamal’s character.
7. “Don’t Worry Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin – Emphasizes a carefree attitude and a knack for easing worries, similar to Jamal’s role.

Ted

1. “Sharp Dressed Man” by ZZ Top – A song that could reflect Ted’s focus on appearance and material success.
2. “Take It Easy” by The Eagles – While generally laid-back, it can be sung with a hint of irony for Ted, who struggles with control and stress.
3. “Everybody’s Talkin'” by Harry Nilsson – Reflects Ted’s alienation or disconnect from the simpler joys of life.
4. “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra – A classic that could showcase Ted’s more charming, romantic side.
5. “Rich Girl” by Hall & Oates – Could be used ironically to showcase Ted’s materialistic worldview.
6. “Big Shot” by Billy Joel – Captures Ted’s self-importance and his eventual realization of his shortcomings.
7. “Life in the Fast Lane” by The Eagles – Reflects the fast-paced, high-pressure life that Ted is accustomed to.

Choosing the right audition song is crucial in demonstrating not only your vocal talent but also your understanding of the character’s journey and the overall tone of “Escape to Margaritaville.” The songs listed in this post are selected to align with each character’s personality traits and their narrative arcs within the story. They offer a mix of the thematic depth and lighthearted fun that is pivotal to the musical’s atmosphere. As you prepare to bring these characters to life, let these songs guide you to a performance that is both compelling and true to the spirit of Jimmy Buffett’s world. Embrace the opportunity to showcase your interpretative skills and connect with your character’s emotional landscape—your audition is not just a chance to perform, but to transport your audience straight to the heart of Margaritaville.