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Strong in the Real Way

A Review of the Themes and Messages in Steven Universe

Steven Universe is a coming of age children’s show featuring an unconventional family comprised of Steven Universe, his father, and his mother’s 3-4 best friends. Steven and his 3-4 maternal figures, Garnet, Amethyst, and Pearl make up the Crystal Gems, a group of renegade gems (though Steven is half-humans) who fought to defend the Earth against the diamonds who wanted to use the Earth, which would have ended in its destruction. The show follows Steven as he grows up and learns more about himself, the Crystal Gems, and his mother’s past.

The show features LGBT representation and lessons on love and true strength. Similarly, Steven Universe features many songs that do likewise. Some of the music is used to advance the plot or develop characters. Many of these songs are light-hearted and fun, sung by Steven because he loves music. These songs include “Giant Woman,” “Cookie Cat,” and “Steven and the Stevens.” However, many of the songs are used to illustrate a point, such as for LGBT representation or iterate lessons on inner strength.

When Steven meets Sugilite, a fusion between Garnet and Amethyst, he admires her raw power and strength. As a result Steven decides to start a training regime with other member of the town to become “Strong in the real way.” However, Pearl watches this and sings that Steven is admiring physical strength. She sings that she wants to show Steven how to be “Strong in the real way.” Pearl believes that real strength is supporting those you love by inspiring them and “being their rock.” By the end of the episode, Steven witnesses he chaos that Sugalite’s strength causes and Pearl’s quick defense of him, that true strength isn’t always physical. 

One of the greatest moments in the show is when Garnet sings, “Stronger Than You.” After the gang is captured to be returned to Home World, the gems must escape the spaceship. It is revealed that Garnet is a fusion, composed of Ruby and Sapphire, when they quickly reunite after escaping from their cells. To aid in their escape, the newly reunited Garnet must fight Jasper, whom earlier defeated Garnet.

While fighting, Garnet sings “Stronger Than You.” This song is upbeat and confident, it celebrates the reunion of Sapphire and Ruby, who clearly love each other romantically. This song is a celebration of their love and how their relationship is greater than the sum of its parts. This song is great because it’s more than just a battle cry. It’s a display of the strength of their strength and a representation of a healthy lesbian relationship to young children, which is especially important for these under-represented groups. This song does an excellent job of summarizing the themes of the show: gender, identity, and love.  

These themes are also seen in “Something Entirely New,” sung by Ruby and Sapphire. The episode shows their past, when they first met. Fusing between dissimilar gems was unheard of and unacceptable. In order to save Ruby, Sapphire ran away to the unfamiliar terrain of Earth. The song takes place as they learn more about each other and their relationship, through their adventures in unknown terrain. 

“Here Comes a Thought,” comes at a later episode and deals with anxiety. Connie worries about her previous interactions with a new student at school. Garnet sings “Here Comes a Thought,” to help Connie deal with her feelings. Garnet not only validates Connie’s emotions, but also helps her overcome them with meditation. In doing so, she also sets an example to viewers that anxiety is valid, but it can be overcome, and that meditation may help.

Not all shows dig deep into relevant themes, and of those not many are on par with Steven Universe. This show features a diverse cast, LGBT representation, and strong characters with genuine emotion. The main theme of the show is love and acceptance, and it all comes together in a beautiful story. However, this show goes beyond its plot and teaches young children the value of love. It features an unconventional family of Steven, his rockstar dad, and his gay moms. The story shows the importance of inner strength, and debunks toxic masculinity. The character’s fears and anxieties are validated, and characters are supported in working through their doubts. While this show may just be a “kid’s show,” this doesn’t invalidate the lessons and love that this show and its music provides.

#su #steven universe #garnet #amethyst #pearl #ruby #sapphire #crystal gems #stronger than you #strong in the real way #here comes a thought #the answer #music #music review #su review #cultural criticism

[ghostflowerthings]

Why do you write like you need it to survive?

A Profile of Lin Manuel Miranda and his Work

Lin Manuel Miranda is one of the best and most prolific composer, playwright, and singer in modern times. He has created various plays and composed music for movies. Miranda has won many awards for his work, nearly becoming the youngest person to win an EGOT. He set the record for the most Tony  nominations for a musical, winning 11 of those awards.

The songs in his plays are unique in that most of the music doesn’t sound like Broadway show tunes. Rather, the music is heavily influenced by hip hop, and the music in his shows take on the beats and sounds of this style. In fact, Miranda stated to President Obama, he was working on “the story of the life of someone who embodies hip hop, Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton.” The style is so characteristic that in Hamilton, these different styles were symbolic of old British rule and the newly emerging United States. His other plays, In the Heights and 21 Chump Street, also have music with a clear hip hop influence.

As seen, hip hop is a prominent style in many of his works, but it is best exemplified in the Hamilton mixtape. With the popularity of Hamilton, Miranda collaborated with many different artists to create the mixtape, a revamping of the Hamilton soundtrack, and it sounds just like contemporary hip hop. And, since the music of Hamilton has hip hop motifs, it’s no surprise the Hamilton mixtape has been so well executed.

Although hip hop is a big influence, Miranda is still a theater kid. In order to raise money for the March for Our Lives event, Miranda created the Hamildrops. The most recent being Found Tonight, which is a collaboration between Miranda and Ben Platt. The music is a mash-up of songs from both Hamilton and Dear Evan Hansen. A tear-jerking masterpiece, it’s existence reminds us that although his music may not be traditional theater, there is still a component in his music that is influenced by musicals and theatre.

His music also has many common themes. While unintentional, much of Manuel’s music explores masculinity and the role men play within their own lives. In 21 Chump Street, Justin tries to prove he can provide to the girl he wants to woo in “What the Heck I Gotta Do.” Similarly, in his later work, Hamilton, Hamilton struggles to be a husband to Eliza in “That Would Be Enough.” “Dear Theodosia” explores both Hamilton’s and Burr’s promises to be their for their children and be there, even though their own fathers weren’t. 

Feminism is another strong recurring theme in his work. While this may be more intentional, Miranda cites that he has been surrounded by strong woman. In fact, Miranda’s mother was a doctor, and the dominant force in his childhood home. Many of the characters he creates are strong independent woman. In Hamilton, he demonstrates that Eliza was instrumental in creating the legacy that Hamilton wanted. In “Satisfied,” he paints Angelica as quick-thinking and smart, which he gleamed from the letters she wrote. Miranda himself admitting that in a different time, Angelica would have helped build the United States.

This theme carries in his other works. Moana tells the story of a young girl who sets out to save her island. In each song featuring Moana, despite her struggles, Moana is portrayed as strong, stubborn, but overall a great leader to her people. In “I Am Moana,” Miranda shows Moana’s struggle, as well as her inner strength, when she decides that even though she doesn’t understand why the ocean chose her, she has the capabilities to save the day. In In the Heights, he creates “Abuela” Claudia, the matriarch of the entire town, a character quintessential in raising the protagonist, and playing a maternal role to many of the other characters.

As seen with the the recurring theme of feminism, Miranda’s work is heavily inspired by his experiences. Miranda is Puerto Rican, and has spent time in the country visiting his grandparents. This influence is most clearly seen in his song, “Almost Like Praying,” which he wrote to raise money for Puerto Rico after being hit by Hurricane Maria. However, these influences can also be heard in much of the music of In the Heights. Firstly, this happens because the story takes place in the barrio of Washington Heights, similar to where Miranda grew up, Innwood. Some of these Carribean and barrio vibes can be seen in the opening song, In the Heights, and throughout the rest of the musical.

The influences of his upbringing can also be seen throughout the musical Hamilton. His family immigrated from Puerto Rico, and as such has a very pro-immigrant stance. His diverse background and upbringing allowed him to understand the American experience. When creating Hamilton, in using non-traditional music, and casting non-white actors, he created the America as he knew it. He brought history into the modern century, and showed the United State as the diverse nation it is known to be. He told a truly American story in Hamilton: An American Musical.

One final take away from Miranda’s music, especially in his musicals are how well-written they are. In In the Heights, 21 Chump Street, and Hamilton, nearly all the dialogue and narration is done through music. Not only this, but Hamilton is full of leitmotifs, the extent of which can be seen here. The music he creates helps bring his stories to life. The music and motifs are carefully chosen such that, in the context of the story, become much more than their literal meaning. In “Burn,” Miranda demonstrates that Eliza can destroy his legacy, what he cares about most. With his style and casting, he creates the american story, combining history and the diversity the United States are known for.

Lin Manuel Miranda has created beautiful music and musicals. The themes and motifs found within his work are heavily influenced by his experiences, and it is clear when listening to his music. His works have recurring themes of masculinity and feminism, that come about from his upbringing, but are nonetheless, and important message that should be heard. He uses music, heavily inspired by hip hop and rap, send messages of feminism and tolerance. Miranda could be described by his own words, “Why do you write like you’re running out of time?” But, who are we to complain when the results are such great creations.

#lin manuel miranda #hamilton #in the heights #21 chump street #moana #ben platt #dear evan hansen #feminism #found tonight #artist profile #music #musical #music review #musical review

[ghostflowerthings]

Art and Engineering:

An Interview with Isaiah

For those who don’t know him, Isaiah is passionate about music, while also majoring in Chemical Engineering. He manages to balance his passion for engineering with the enjoyment of creating music. His best known work is Sonic Highway. I got a chance to interview him and learned more about his music and inspirations. 

How did you get into music?

“I learned how to play piano when I was 6 years old, and continued to learn different instruments throughout childhood/high school, including violin, saxophone, French horn, and marching percussion. When I was a senior in high school, I took AP music theory, which really got me interested in music composition and why music sounds the way it does. I pursued these interests further in college by completing a music minor.”

How do you balance between music and engineering?

“If anything I try to listen to all kinds of music in my free time and I try to expose myself to new artists that I find online. The classes for the music minor were also an outlet for me to think critically about composition, especially the online digital audio course I took last Spring. “

Do you wish you could spend more time on your music?

“Yeah, I do wish i could spend more time on it. I would be probably be working on personal compositions in my free time if I wasn’t working so hard on all the engineering classes. “

Would you rather be able to pursue a career in music, if there were no drawbacks?

“Honestly, I would still pursue a career in engineering. For me personally, I think music has always been a hobby and an escape for me. Making music my career might take away the “escape” it provides for me. Also, I think working in engineering gives more to society and solves more problems compared to just working as a performer or a composer. I am more motivated to pursue a career in engineering.”

Even if you don’t want to have a career in it, do you still wish you had more time to devote to music?

“In the future, I would like to spend more time on music when I have free time. I always find that I have like really quick musical motifs or ideas that I play over and over in my head, and I never get the chance to record them or produce them. “

More about your music, how would you describe the music you create. What genre would you say it is? Does your music have any motifs?

“ I would say I like to create stuff that’s super atmospheric and harmonically interesting. In that video, I tried to use a lot of seventh chords, which give it a slightly jazzy feel. In terms of rhythmic motifs, I like to use syncopated rhythms that give the piece forward momentum and energy. In terms of mixing and audio effects, reverb is probably the most useful effect that I used a lot. It makes everything sound more echoey, which helps to make the music atmospheric.”

I could totally see that in Sonic Highway. What inspired the music in that video?

“ Originally, the goal was to find some kind of video footage that I could score with music and also provide all the sound effects for it since it was for a class project. I found a bunch of clips of cars driving and went with the idea of trying to recreate the feeling of driving really fast down a highway. Like a Storm by KNOWER acted as the musical inspiration in terms of orchestration and arranging the music.”

Is this your favorite piece that you’ve made?

“Yes, it’s the most original thing I’ve ever produced.”

Can you describe your music process to me?

“I would say the first thing is to develop an emotional map for the song. I figure out what the song should sound like and what the highs and lows are going to be in terms of dynamics and compartmentalizing the song into parts if necessary. Because I listen to a lot of music, there is probably some artist I would draw inspiration from and use that as the basis for a melody of some kind. From there I just keep adding stuff until everything is the best I think it can be.”

What kind of music do you enjoy listening to?

“Quite a lot of music. Honestly, the only genre I don’t really listen to that much is country music (and there are still some exceptions there). I’ve learned to get some kind of enjoyment out of all kinds of music just by being open to learning more about different genres.”

Do any musicians inspire you?

“There are quite a few musicians that inspire me. Since I grew up playing classical music, I have a soft spot for a lot of classical composers like Chopin, Debussy, and Ravel, to name a few. There are also a lot of great jazz musicians like John Coltrane and Duke Ellington that inspire me to really think deeply about music theory and chords. And in terms of like current musicians, I would say Jacob Collier is super inspiring, since he’s like only slightly older than me and he composes music that I find to be really amazing. Seriously check him out because he’s going to be the future of jazz/modern music.”

I will. Is there any advice you’d give to your younger self?

“I would tell my younger self to practice more. I never practiced my instruments enough when I was younger.”

One more question. What’s your favorite instrument and why?

“Piano, because it’s capable of playing chords that other instruments cannot play. Also, its what I started on way back when I was younger.”

#music #engineering #jacob collier #chopin #debussy #ravel #interview #artist interview #sonic highway

[ghostflowerthings]

The Golden Age of Rock and Roll:

A Short History of Frankie Lymon & The Teenagers, Doo-Wop, and the New York City Music Scene

New York City is a cultural hub, which over time, has allowed several different music scenes arise. Due to its cultural diversity, this city has served as the birthplace of several genres, such as hip hop, punk rock, and salsa. Similarly, other genres such as jazz, rock, and blues were able to thrive within the city. Similar to the culture, the music in New York is immense and richly diverse. The flux of music and culture through New York City has allowed the music scene to nurture and create many different genres of music, including Doo-Wop.

Doo-Wop is a style of music that started on the streets of Harlem and Brooklyn in the 1930s. It really grew in New York City, becoming mainstream in the 1950s and 1960s, although it was also prolific in Chicago and Philadelphia. Doo-Wop relies heavily on vocal harmonies to carry the music, almost like acapella set to music. The earliest Doo-Wop bands, who pioneered the style, include The Ravens, The Crows, The Chords, and the Drifters.

The Teenagers were one of the Doo-Wop bands arising in New York City. The band was comprised entirely of teenagers, hence the name. They rose to fame, becoming one of the earliest rock hits. The band was originally formed in Manhattan, originally part of the Earth Angels and evolved into The Teenagers. They became rock’s first band entirely of teenagers, and soon they left their mark on rock and the music scene in New York City. 

However, The Teenagers’ most popular songs and greatest success happened when they sang with Frankie Lymon, a younger, charming singer who encaptured audiences and whose music was heavily influenced by the gospel music he heard in church. Frankie Lymon and The Teenagers came up with hits such as “Why Do Fools Fall in Love?” and “Please be Mine.” Although The Teenagers did have success on their own and with other singers, with songs such as: “I’m Not a Juvenile Delinquent,” and “The ABC’s of Love.”

However, neither Frankie Lymon nor The Teenagers achieved much more success after their split. Despite their short stint in fame, they left a great impression. Their song “Why Do Fools Fall in Love?” paved the way for the voices of Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder, and inspired many others, such as Ronnie Spector, who quoted his inspiration as “Why Do Fools Fall in Love?”, “I know exactly where I got my voice: Frankie Lymon… Frankie had the greatest voice I’d ever heard.”

Frankie Lymon and The Teenagers may not have left behind many works, but what they did leave behind was music that represented the best of the golden era of rock and roll. Their time in the spotlight may have been short, but the impact it had was lasting, and its influences can be seen in much of the music listened to today. 

#frankie lymon #doo wop #the teenagers #frankie lymon and the teenagers #why do fools fall in love #rock and roll #rock and roll hall of fame #nyc #new york city #music scene #music #music review #michael jackson #stevie wonder

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Why Soundtracks Matter:

An Analysis of How to Train Your Dragon’s “Forbidden Friendship”

“How to Train Your Dragon” is set on an island, Berk, where dragon raids are a frequent occurrence, and killing a dragon is a right of passage. The story follows Hiccup, a young scrawny viking who happens to be the chief’s son. He wants to prove his worth to the village, which he knows he can only do by killing a dragon. With a contraption of his own making, Hiccup shoots down a Night Fury, the deadliest and most fearsome dragon known. However, when going to recover evidence of his deed, he finds the dragon still alive and fails to kill it. Instead, he cuts the dragon loose only to find it trapped in a cove later. The two slowly form a tentative friendship.  

One of the pivotal scenes in the movie “How to Train Your Dragon” is when Toothless and Hiccup overcome their initial distrust and become friends. In snapshots over several days, we slowly see the two opening up and learning to trust each other and become friends. There is very little dialogue in these scenes, which allows the music to shine. The music used is “Forbidden Friendship.” By adding the music, the scene comes alive. The music adds emotion and elevates the scene. 

The music opens with a large bang, as Toothless lunges forwards. Then, the music begins slow and curious, symbolizing their tentative peace. As Hiccup accepts Toothless’s gift of fish, the music becomes more complex. The music slowly builds up as their relationship grows and Hiccup begins spending more time around Toothless to learn more about the Night Fury and get closer to it. In each subsequent interaction, the relationship between the two is clearly growing, as is the music.

The music begins to climax as Toothless to draws Hiccup as a response to Hiccup’s drawing of the dragon. The music reaches its peak when Hiccup weaves between the tree marks to admire the drawing. He stumbles towards Toothless. Upon reaching the edge of the drawing, and within arms length of the dragon, the music immediately mellows into ethereal choir singing.

The calm music enhances this particular sequence because it shows how far the two have come. Hiccup tentatively raises his arm to pet Toothless, but when seeing Toothless’s nervousness, Hiccup turns away. The music fades out as Hiccup places his trust in the dragon, and allows Toothless make the final move. The music ends right when Toothless places his forehead against Hiccup. The music closes, and Hiccup and Toothless are left in silence with mutual trust and a new forbidden friendship.

This movie has beautiful animation and tells a beautiful story, which is greatly enhanced by the wonderful soundtrack. As shown, the music in Forbidden Friendship compliments the scene. The music works both to elevate the mood of the scene and parallels their relationship. On its own, the music is soft and beautiful, becoming more complex as it goes on. It’s a beautiful piece, but when played along with the scene, they work together to make the story come to life. This is a great example of how music can create a scene and how the soundtrack can elevate a movie.

#httyd #how to train your dragon #hiccup #toothless #forbidden friendship #dreamworks #hiccup horrendous haddock iii #hiccup horrendous haddock lll #night fury #soundtrack #music #music review #soundtrack review

[ghostflowerthings]

A short podcast reviewing how the themes and music intertwine in Pixar’s new movie Coco.

#coco #pixar coco #disney pixar coco #coco rivera #hector rivera #miguel rivera #disney pixar #imelda rivera #hector #miguel #music #music review #movie #movie review #coco 2017

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The Art of Composing:

A Track-by-Track of Some of Lin Manuel Miranda’s Most Prominent Music

Lin Manuel Miranda is a prolific song-writer and playwright. He has won several awards, which include Tonys, Grammys, and an Emmy. His most notable works are Hamilton, which was nominated for a record breaking 16 Tony’s,  and In the Heights. However, he has also worked on shorter musicals and movie soundtracks. A lot of Miranda’s music has been influenced by his life. His father was an immigrant and hails from Puerto Rico. His entire life, he has been surrounded by strong, successful women, which include his mother and wife. These influences are apparent in his music and plays.

“Alexander Hamilton”

Many of Miranda’s song deal with politics. However, when asked about this, Miranda replied that politics were inherent to Hamilton’s story. This song opens Hamilton: An American Musical. Hamilton’s story is the classic story of an immigrant working hard to make it to a new country in the hopes of a better life.  Being the son of an immigrant, Miranda connected to the story. The opening of this narrative shows how Miranda’s music has been influenced by his life.

The show is very pro-immigration. The lyrics include, “Another immigrant comin’ up form the bottom.” Hamilton made himself from nothing. He was self-taught and worked his entire life to make something of himself. However, Hamilton’s story is not unique. However, through Hamilton’s rise as Washington’s right hand man, and eventually becoming Secretary of the Treasury and founder of the Federalist party, Miranda narrates that immigrants are valuable member of society, regardless of where and what they come from. The opening of this narrative shows how Miranda’s music has been influenced by his life.

“The Schuyler Sisters”

In Hamilton, this music introduces the Schuyler sisters, who are lesser known historical figures. In order to create these characters, Miranda had to thoroughly research Hamilton’s life and that of his peers. Miranda includes feminist themes in his work, and this is seen in including the Schuyler Sisters in Hamilton.

Eliza Hamilton was incredibly selfless and instrumental in Hamilton’s story. She gave up a life of luxury because she fell was willing to give up a life of luxury to be with Hamilton, and was content in poverty because she loved Hamilton. However, Eliza lived an extraordinary life. She founded the first private orphanage, which still operates today. It is thanks to her that Hamilton’s story lives on. Including the Schuyler sisters in Hamilton, Miranda remembers the importance of women throughout history, even though their stories are often not told.

This song is empowering. Angelica sing, “And when I meet Thomas Jefferson, I’m ‘a compel him to include women in the sequel!” referring to the Declaration of Independence. Women watching will be cheering her on. Angelica does not shy away from asserting herself or her ideas, and it’s inspiring. 

“Best of Wives and Best of Women”

This song is a short ode to Eliza Schuyler. Hamilton sings this the morning before his death. Although this song does not further the plot, it highlights the importance of Eliza Schuyler to Hamilton, both in his life and for his legacy. Eliza really is one of the best women in Hamilton’s life, and the best wife he could have asked for. This song is just another example of Miranda’s respect for women in his work.

“Satisfied”

As Renee Elise Goldsberry states, “We know the founding fathers, but the mothers are a mystery.” This song gives an insight into Angelica’s wit and intelligence. Miranda has stated that if not for the sexism of the time, Angelica would’ve helped to build the United States.  

In meeting Alexander, although they were soul mates, she was able to discern Hamilton’s station and the implications of that, as well as what was expected of her as a result of her being the oldest. As a result, she was unable to marry him. However, she let her sister marry him. Hamilton and Angelica corresponded throughout their lives, and she was able to match Hamilton intellectually. She was hungry for news and as the song says, “He will never be satisfied, I will never be satisfied.” Like Eliza, Angelica was selfless and supportive, but she was also a strong and intelligent, and would’ve been a force to be reckoned with in another life.

The musical includes a lot of hip-hop and rap. This shows the influence of the music Miranda listened to. In fact, this song includes an incredible rap performed by Renee Elise Goldsbury. The rap serves to demonstrate not only Angelica’s quick thinking and intelligence, but also allows for diversity in the cast. The music styles and call for minority actors to audition created opportunity and a unique story.  In doing this, Hamilton becomes a celebration of diversity and Miranda is able to create a truly American story.

“I Am Moana”

This song is from the movie, Moana. This song best describes the strength of the character. Moana has hit her lowest point. She failed to restore the heart and Maui has abandoned her. In her quiet reflection, she speaks with her grandmother’s ghost, and finds the inner strength to try again. In a resounding call, the words, “I am Moana,” shows the character finding herself. This shows the determination of a young girl who will fight for her people, despite what the world throws at her.

In watching Moana, this song becomes a battle cry, especially young women in the theater. Moana becomes an example for women to fight for what they believe in. This song can impart the courage to face fears, stand up to obstacles, or create your own path. The lyric may be “I am Moana,” but the song speaks to a much larger audience. The song instead says, “I am me, and this is what I will do.”

“Non-Stop”

One of the main themes of Hamilton, is the power of writing. Hamilton is born poor and it is only through his writing that he has managed forge his own path. Hamilton is described writing like “he’s running out of time,” and “every second you’re alive.” This serves to show not only Hamilton’s familiarity with death, but Hamilton’s incredible work ethic. 

This song also inadvertently describes Miranda. He has written, composed, and starred in three musicals. He has won many awards for his songs and musicals. Miranda may not have helped to found the United States, but he was able to make a history story relatable to many. This speaks of Miranda’s work ethic and how writing has impacted his own life.

“Dear Theodosia”

A common theme of many of Miranda’s works is masculinity and what that means. This song shows two men showering their newborn sons with love and affection. While traditionally, men are shown as stoic and expected to repress their emotions, this song introduces the opposite. Miranda shows that emotions should be experienced.

This is a touching song about two new fathers. Both Hamilton and Burr sing this song to their children promising to create a better world for them. It is important to note that both Hamilton and Burr had absent fathers growing up, but Burr and Hamilton both sing, “I’ll be around for you.” This shows their desires to be what their parents weren��t.

This song demonstrates that masculinity isn’t necessarily bottling up your emotions. It refers more to caring and providing for your family. This song showcases the emotional care necessary to raise a child, since it’s assumed, especially within the time period, that the father is the bread-winner of the household.

“The Money”

This song is featured in 21 Chump Street. While this may not have any themes regarding politics or feminism, it demonstrates Miranda’s ability to craft music in a story. Hamilton is full of leitmotifs, recurring lyrics or tunes used to connect songs with the same theme or idea. This song comes towards the end of the musical, but calls back to songs earlier in the musical. Miranda uses this tool expertly, especially in Hamilton, but also within this musical.

Justin sings that Naomi was transferred here for a reason. This calls back to the first song, where Justin develops a crush on Naomi. The audience knows that the reason Naomi is here is because she is an undercover cop collecting evidence against students for selling and/or consuming marijuana. However, Justin does not know this. This highlights the dramatic irony in the scene, and the audience can only helplessly watch as Justin fall right into Naomi’s trap.

As Naomi sings, “Just take the money,” which would allow her to convict Justin, a chorus of “Naomi” is sung in the background, similar to as in the opening. While in the opening, the chorus sounded more lovelorn, highlighting Justin’s crush on her the reprise has a much more ominous tone. The difference in tone serves as a reminder of the different motives of the characters.

These elements are expertly used in order to highlight the drama of the situation. The leitmotifs are used to enhance the dramatic irony. In calling back to the opening song, it shows the contrasting motives and emotions of the characters. The story becomes more emotional, and the ending becomes all the more heart-breaking.

“Almost Like Praying”

After the recent hurricane that destroyed Puerto Rico, Miranda wrote this song to raise money to support the island. The influence of this song is clearly Miranda’s ties to Puerto Rico. His father immigrated from Puerto Rico, and he spent summers there with family. This song shows Miranda’s pride for his heritage as a Puerto Rican. These influences can be seen in many of his other songs, but none express it as clearly as this.

“Love is Love is Love”

While this is a poem by Miranda, rather than a song, it should be mentioned in a list of Miranda’s  Miranda is. The 2016 Tony Awards occured soon after a shooting at a gay bar in Orlando, Florida. With only a limited amount of time, Miranda was able to craft this powerful poem as remembrance and solidarity for the victims of the shooting. As CNN reported, “Miranda’s raw emotion touched everyone sitting in the audience at the Beacon Theater.” However, Miranda’s speech and emotion reached a much larger audience. It was a tribute that needed to be heard by everyone. Because, “love is love is love,” and no one should discriminate against any form of it.

The music of Lin Manuel Miranda is influenced by his life, which is seen in his work. Feminist themes are commonly seen in his work, and are parallel to his life in the form of his wife and mother. These two women are strong, intelligent, and successful and their influence is clear. Cultural influences are also apparent within his work. Hamilton’s use of hip-hop and rap music are influenced by the music Miranda listened to. Hamilton’s diverse cast shows Miranda’s appreciation for diversity in America, and his inclusivity. This is once again highlighted in his poem, love is love is love. The influence of Miranda’s Puerto Rican heritage is best seen in his song “Almost Like Praying.”

Miranda is a creative genius when it comes to crafting stories and music. The music choice, leitmotifs, and word choice create stories that impart important themes and connect to large audiences.

#hamilton #21 chump street #lin manuel miranda #moana #hamilton musical #alexander hamilton #eliza schuyler #angelica schuyler #eliza hamilton #renee elise goldsberry #phillipa soo #auli'i cravalho #musicals #musical review #track-by-track #music review #theatre

[ghostflowerthings]

An Introduction to Optimism:

A Review of Spongebob Squarepants: The Broadway Musical

Spongebob the Musical has been called the “surprise hit of the season,” receiving a plethora of good reviews. Spongebob is inspired by the children’s show Spongebob Squarepants. The musical reimagines the world and characters of the hit show. Anyone may have their doubts about a musical focusing on a sponge from a children’s TV show; however, the consensus is that this musical will keep you smiling the whole way through.

Bikini Bottom is a colorful wonderland composed of everyday objects and junk that might sink to the bottom of the ocean. The characters are just as bright and imaginative. Instead of gaudy costumes, the characters are dressed as humans.  Yet, there is no doubt that these actors are the characters. The music is a mix of styles from various artists. Despite this, the music, set, and characters work together to create a great story.

The show opens with “Bikini Bottom Day,” which brings the audience into Bikini Bottom, making them love the town just like Spongebob does. The catchy tune grabs the audience's attention, as they learn more about the individual characters.

The characters learn of the nearby volcano erupting, “No Control” describes the fear of each character, through a chorus of “The End is coming!” Plankton hatches a plot to take advantage of the situation, which is enacted in “When the Going Gets Tough.” In the song, Plankton manages to bust a rhyme that could put Lin Manuel Miranda to shame, though it’s not  in the Chicago version available.

“[Just a] Simple Sponge”  follows Spongebob as he figures out how exactly he will save his town. He battles with his own anxiety and doubts. But what makes this moment so great is that, despite his eternal optimism, he worries, too. But he regains confidence, singing, “I am not a simple sponge!” He then enlists his friends singing, “Hero is My Middle Name.”

“Tomorrow Is” closes out the first act, and summarizes the major plots and storylines. However, this song is beautiful, and shows the characters planning to live to the fullest and fight to save themselves. The tone is melancholic because the characters all know that this could very well be their very last day. However, at the end, it is the first time that all the characters say that it’s a “beautiful Bikini Bottom day.” It solidifies, that while things may seem hopeless and chaotic, each character still loves the city and the community within it.

The plot resumes in “Chop to the Top,” Sandy and Spongebob climb the volcano to prevent the eruption. It’s an upbeat country song, despite they could easily die on the climb. The song exudes confidence, saying that with strength and determination, anything is achievable.

At the end, Spongebob finds the town in chaos and reminds each citizen of the importance of community. At the end, the town sings “Best Day Ever.” Spongebob and the town have done all they could. Joining hands, they make it the best day ever, knowing they could all die in a few minutes. This moment describes the entire musical. While things may be terrible, there’s always a positive, even if it’s just being with your community.

The story isn’t just a happy-go-lucky story about a sponge saving the day. The musical addresses current problems, such as discrimination and immigration, presented so children can understand. For example, Sandy is chased out because she’s a land mammal. But at the end, she is accepted as a valuable member of the town.

The end result is a wonderful story about friendship and unwavering optimism. While this musical might seem like it’s just for children or fans of the show, it’s something anyone can enjoy. It may not be groundbreaking like Hamilton, or cathartic like Dear Evan Hansen, but what this show brings is 2.5 hours of happiness. Spongebob’s optimism in the face of fear and doubt might the story someone needs. As director Tina Landau says, “I think the world needs a Spongebob musical.”

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[ghostflowerthings]

When Music and Story Intertwine:

A Review of the Music of Dear Evan Hansen

Pasek and Paul’s music in Dear Evan Hansen hits you with all the feels in an unrelenting storm of emotions. The premise of the musical follows Evan as a letter he writes to himself on the orders of his therapist is found on a fellow student who recently committed suicide. The audience follows as Evan tells a lie that spirals out of control until it all falls apart.

Without even understanding the story, two songs stick out. “Waving Through a Window” and “You Will Be Found” are the two songs that can stand alone. These two songs speak to a larger audience. “Waving Through a Window” introduces Evan’s anxiety and depression, and Ben Platt’s voice exudes angst. With mental health issues at a high for teenagers, this song becomes so relatable. Similarly, “You Will Be Found” is such a great song because it becomes an anthem for all those who struggle and feel alone, going as far as becoming the tagline for the musical itself. In fact, the overall music according to Holzer in Broadway World, “should serve as an inspiration and a consolation to teens and parents enduring or remembering the tough high-school years.”

That’s not to say the music is uplifting either. The music touches upon serious subjects, such as Evan’s anxiety and the grief due to a colleague/sibling/child’s death. “For Forever” kicks off the plot, and we see Evan creating a fictitious story of him as friends with Connor. In “Disappear,” the characters say that “No one deserves to be forgotten.” However, all these happy notes leave a sour taste, because the audience knows that it’s a reflection of Evan’s desire for human connections as well as a desire to ease the suffering of the Murphys, and the lie gets even bigger. 

When the lie unravels in “Words Fail,” the result is a heart wrenchingly honest Evan apologizing because he let the lie get to big because he wanted to be part of the family. The words spew from Evan as he attempts to explain his reasoning, though he knows there is no excuse. At the end of the song, Evan calls back to “Waving Through a Window,” and according to Pasek (2017) in Dear Evan Hansen through the window, Evan can “overcome himself by facing the truth” (p. 175). However, the power of these moments rely heavily on the story.

The music doesn’t really stand alone. The music itself, with no story, is still good, but it doesn’t catch your attention and fails to pull the audience in. The heartbreaking nuances and meaning behind each song are lost without the story. This is the kind of music that one must actively pay attention to, or at least be familiar with the story, and even then, it can take many listens to pick up on all the details within the music.

A lot of the power of this music is in the nuances of the lyrics. In “For Forever,” Evan makes up a story where there’s someone there for him when he breaks his arm. In reality, he lies alone waiting for help, calling back to “Did I even make a sound?” in “Waving Through a Window.” “Requiem” tugs on your heartstrings when Jennifer Laura Thompson sings “I hear your voice, I feel you near. Within these words, I finally find you.” But the audience knows its not her child’s words, it’s Evan’s fabrication. “So Big/ So Small,” is one of the saddest songs in the musical, but it’s so character driven that so much of the emotional impact is gone if you aren’t familiar with the situation.

While the music for this musical is beautiful,  watching the story unfold makes you fall in love with the songs. However, the emotion and story within this music are what make this track so powerful; there’s so many nuances within each song that listeners can pick up on a new heart breaking detail after each listen. The music also deals with the many issues facing teenagers today, and they give a heralding “You will be found,” to all those facing social anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. The power of this music isn’t that it tells a story well, it’s that it sends a clear message of love to those who need it.  

#dear evan hansen #deh #pasek and paul #ben platt #mike faist #will roland #laura dreyfuss #kristolyn lloyd #rachel bay jones #jennifer laura thompson #michael park #waving through a window #you will be found #musicals #musical #musical review #music analysis #theatre

[ghostflowerthings]

How Performance Affects Meaning:

An Analysis of Be More Chill’s “Michael in the Bathroom”

Michael in the Bathroom has been sung and performed by George Salazar and Will Roland. While the song doesn’t change, the final product differs drastically in presentation. In George Salazar’s version, Michael’s anxiety shines through and it is clear the character is having a panic attack. Will Roland’s version highlights the anger and self-pity the character feels. 

This song is from the musical Be More Chill centers around two friends, Michael and Jeremy. With the advent of a new drug, Super Quantum Unit Intel Processor (SQUIP), that implants in the brain and tells the user how to gain social standing. When Jeremy takes this drug, he distances from Michael, which culminates in Michael hiding in the bathroom at a party after attempting to speak to Jeremy at the start of Act 2.

In George Salazar’s version, anxiety is the main emotion portrayed. Salazar begins singing rather calmly. Once the refrain begins, Michael’s anxiety creeps out. By the last “Michael in the bathroom,” of the refrain, it becomes clear the character is having an anxiety attack. In the second verse, Michael’s anxious thoughts continue. There is a brief reprieve as he listens to the girl singing Whitney, but these thoughts just lead straight back to his situation, and Michael remains anxious. This anxiety keeps building into and through the second refrain. When the knocking begins, Salazar’s tone and movements become more frantic, showing the character’s anxiety increasing exponentially, until he splashes water in his face, effectively calming himself down to open the door. When he finds he doesn’t have to leave his bathroom space, the character’s anxiety builds back up. His thoughts begin spiral out of control, and become more self-deprecating, wishing he was never born. These negative thoughts continue as the character loses control of his anxiety, until the very end. At this point, Salazar’s singing becomes less desperate and more sarcastic, showing that while the character does not feel better, but rather has calmed himself down enough to exchange the necessary pleasantries. Salazar’s version follows the ups and downs of the character during his moments in the bathroom and his thoughts as his anxiety spirals out of control, and the audience can feel these emotions in listening or watching along. 

When Will Roland sings “Michael in the Bathroom,” his tone is much more bitter.  He starts off singing quietly, expressing his awkward feeling at being alone, locking himself away in the bathroom, as he is friendless at the “hottest party of the fall.” When he begins singing about Jeremy ditching him, he sounds sadder. In entering the first refrain, he starts off self-pitying, but midway shifts to an angrier tone. In this version, Michael is resentful of being left alone, and it shown through Roland’s tone. This anger is carried into the second verse. When he quotes the girl singing Whitney Houston, he mocks her in singing, “I wanna dance with somebody.” When faced with the knocking, his anger shines through, and he bites back at the knocking, rather than, as Salazar’s Michael, spiral down into a much more anxious state. Later in the song, the lyrics are self-deprecating, but Roland sounds sarcastic, which further highlights his resentment. In the final line, Roland is at his most sarcastic, showcasing the characters anger and resentment.

These two versions of the same song have vastly different tones, and the character’s emotions are represented vastly differently. Roland presents the character as bitter and self-pitying. Salazar showcases Michael’s anxiety, and the roller-coaster of emotions he experiences locked in the bathroom. While both singers work with the same notes, music, and lyrics, these interpretations are vastly different. By singing the exact same song, these performers are able to tell completely different stories. Through their acting and tone, these two artists present two completely different characters.

#be more chill #bmc #michael mell #dear evan hansen #deh #george salazar #will roland #michael in the bathroom #music #music review #music analysis #musicals #musical #musical review #theatre