Shania Twain recently shared her honest playlist in a revealing interview, spanning from Abba's "Dancing Queen" to Harry Styles' "Sign of the Times." The country pop icon opened up about the songs that shaped her life, from tear-jerking film scores to secret guilty pleasures.
Shania Twain's Song That Changed Her Life
The song that changed her life was Ennio Morricone's "Gabriel's Oboe" from The Mission soundtrack. Twain recalls pulling over her car and crying like a baby at age 22, realizing the immense power of music. She credits that moment as a turning point in her emotional connection to songs.
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First Single and Early Influences
Her first purchased single was "At Seventeen" by Janis Ian. Twain says it perfectly captured the emotions of a teenage misfit, inspiring her to write with similar depth. She saved money from babysitting and singing in bars—barely $20—to buy that record for herself.
Best Party Anthem: Abba's Dancing Queen
If "Dancing Queen" comes on at a party, Twain insists you rush out of the bathroom—you can't miss a second. This upbeat classic remains her ultimate party starter.
Secret Listen: Phantom of the Opera
Twain admits she secretly nerd-out to the entire Phantom of the Opera album, but only alone. It's a hidden pleasure she doesn't share publicly.
Morning Motivation: Harry Styles
To get out of bed, pop music like Harry Styles' "Sign of the Times" brings her to a new place. She loves its uplifting vibes to start the day.
Songs That Make Her Cry and Karaoke Favorites
Michael Jackson's "Ben" made her cry as a child. For karaoke, she chooses "Killing Me Softly" by Roberta Flack—though she was once purist about performing, now she embraces the fun.
Funeral Song: Don't Worry, Be Happy
Given her grief experiences, Twain wants Bobby McFerrin's "Don't Worry, Be Happy" played at her funeral. It acknowledges life's messiness while offering a simple message of acceptance.
Comparison: Shania Twain's Playlist Genres
| Song | Artist | Genre | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gabriel's Oboe | Ennio Morricone | Classical/Score | Life-changing |
| At Seventeen | Janis Ian | Folk | First single |
| Dancing Queen | Abba | Pop/Disco | Party anthem |
| Sign of the Times | Harry Styles | Pop/Rock | Morning motivation |
| Killing Me Softly | Roberta Flack | Soul | Karaoke favorite |
| Don't Worry, Be Happy | Bobby McFerrin | Reggae/Pop | Funeral song |
Key Takeaways from Shania Twain's Playlist
- Music can be deeply emotional—Twain cried over a film score.
- Her first purchase showed early ambition to write like Janis Ian.
- Abba's "Dancing Queen" is an irresistible party hit.
- She has secret loves like Phantom of the Opera.
- Harry Styles provides morning energy.
- Her funeral song promotes acceptance over sorrow.
FAQ
What is Shania Twain's favorite party song?
Shania Twain loves Abba's "Dancing Queen" as the ultimate party anthem—she says if it comes on, you must rush out of the bathroom to hear it.
Which song changed Shania Twain's life?
"Gabriel's Oboe" by Ennio Morricone from The Mission soundtrack made her pull over and cry, showing her the profound power of music.
What song does Shania Twain want at her funeral?
She chooses Bobby McFerrin's "Don't Worry, Be Happy" to remind mourners that some things can't be controlled, and it's okay to let go.
What karaoke song does Shania Twain pick?
Her go-to karaoke song is "Killing Me Softly" by Roberta Flack—she now embraces the fun after years of being purist about performing.
Shania Twain's honest playlist offers a revealing window into her emotions, memories, and sense of humor. From childhood tears to party dance floors, these songs define her journey. Her new album Little Miss Twain is out now, adding another chapter to her legendary career.