By definition, joy.

Even before the O.C. boosted the fame of many indie artists, music and television were closely linked. From National Band Stand to the Peach Pit performances on Beverly Hills, 90210, music has not only been a bonus but an attraction for viewers. This season’s breakaway hit takes it to the next level: every week, the cast of Glee performs show-stopping numbers of popular songs (past and present).

Created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Ian Brennen (the minds behind Nip/Tuck and Popular) originally as a movie, Glee follows the story of a high school show choir in small town Ohio. The characters are so hysterically stereotypical that they have extra depth. Full of love triangles, fake pregnancies, blackmail, and backstabbing, the plot is over the top – making it the most fun hour on television.

The music is chosen well – it’s not just the most recent and popular hits, but also hits from ‘back in the day’ and musicals. The variety of songs and mash-ups keep it interesting (and surprising – like Puck’s sudden rendition of ‘Sweet Caroline’). I like that the show uses several types of music from different decades – it introduces a mostly younger audience to some of the major influences in music today.

The first in a series of albums containing the music from the show will be released on Tuesday. Until then, the music is available for unlimited streaming on the official Glee myspace. Songs performed in the show are also available for purchase on iTunes the day after they air.