Composer: John Kander
Lyricist: Fred Ebb
The songs in “Chicago” were written for the Broadway show by the successful team of John Kander and Fred Ebb. They are integral to the plot and the lyrics include subtle parodies of Chicago in the 1920s.
All That Jazz
Velma, after murdering her sister and husband, performs "All That Jazz" at a nightclub while Roxie kills her lover, Fred.
Funny Honey
Roxie sings about what a sap her husband, "Funny Honey" Amos, is while the police question him after he confesses to the murder to protect Roxie.
When You’re Good to Mama
Prison warden Mama Morton explains the rules of prison life as "When You're Good to Mama" and give her money, she will be good to you in return.
Cell Block Tango
The female prisoners on murderers' row explain why they committed murder while dancing to the "Cell Block Tango." According to the women, the men they murdered deserved to die.
All I Care About is Love
Billy Flynn explains that he defends female murderers not for the money but because "All I Care About is Love."
We Both Reached for the Gun
Billy tells Roxie that her explanation for Fred's murder is self-defense and she should tell the media that "We Both Reached for the Gun." This song is performed with "puppet" Roxie sitting on Billy's knee while he pulls all her strings and speaks for her to the media.
Roxie
Roxie imagines herself on the stage as a star, singing "Roxie."
I Can’t Do It Alone
Roxie has risen to the top and Velma tries to convince Roxie that they should team up. She describes the act she had with her sister and that she needs Roxie for it because "I Can't Do It Alone."
Mr. Cellophane
Amos, used by Roxie, explains that he is Mr. Cellophane, an invisible person who is not noticed by anyone.
Razzle Dazzle
Billy explains to Roxie that she has nothing to worry about in court because the justice system is just "Razzle Dazzle."
Nowadays
Roxie imagines herself on the stage singing about life "Nowadays."