1. We Put the Spring in Springfield The Simpsons (S8E5)
One of only two Simpsons songs to win an Emmy and the writers' second favourite song of all time, "We Put the Spring In Springfield" sees Marge leading the entire Springfield community in a crusade to shut down the local burlesque house that has just come to her attention after she discovers Bart has been working there. At the last minute, Homer steps up and leads Belle and her showgirls in a rousing number that defends the house as part of Springfield's character. This musical moment is classic because it's one of the few songs that involves the whole cast of characters. One thing that has always separated The Simpsons from other animated sitcoms is the strength of all the supporting characters - the writers never neglect any of them and they all show up for this moment. Nothing brings people together like a good sing-song and what makes it even more entertaining is how, line after line, characters reveal they have all enjoyed the services of the Maison Derriere. It's the first time we've really seen this darker, naughtier side of Springfield as a whole community. On one level, this song is an entertaining show number, but like with a lot of The Simpsons episodes, there's a slightly deeper message - that we should embrace the side of ourselves that might seem distasteful at first but is part of who we are. As Homer exclaims, 'We could tear it down. But we'd be tearing down a part of ourselves.' What follows is a list of metaphors that essentially argue The Maison Derriere is just a bit of harmless fun that makes existence that little bit nicer. And who would want to destroy that? The song was written by the Simpsons song master and resident composer Alf Clausen in the style of 1920s jazz to match the burlesque setting and has everything from key changes to a hilarious three-part interlude sung by the school bullies proclaiming 'We just heard this place existed!' before the song goes into its swinging finale. All incredible musical moments that make our favourite TV shows all the more memorable. It takes a particularly brave group of professionals to step outside their comfort zone and risk embarrassment or criticism, especially for the live action episodes included in this list and they deserve to be saluted. There were many more considered and honourable mentions should go to The Simpson's songs "Flaming Moe" and The Planet of the Apes Musical as well as Malcolm in the Middle's musical episode, "Dewey's Opera." What are your favourite original musical moments? Or do you prefer you shows to stick to what they're best at?