As anyone will tell you, I am 100% a musical theater geek. However, I can't afford to fly up to New York City and see all of the best shows right when they open. Worry not! I've compiled the 5 best musical theater albums (in my opinion) you can get obsessed with (without the hassle or the money needed to see the show in person).
1. "Hamilton"
You know I had to start with this incredible show. The lyrics alone are so full of mini-history facts you can barely keep up. The story itself is even better.
My Picks: "Burn", "Alexander Hamilton", and "The World Was Wide Enough"
2. "Dear Evan Hansen"
Literally one of the most beautiful soundtracks I have ever heard. It may be confusing to listen to without seeing the show ( you'll miss a few plot points explained in regular dialogue) but Ben Platt's voice is enough to keep you listening.
My Picks: "Waving Through A Window", "Words Fail", and "Disappear"
3. "Waitress"
Written by Sara Bareilles, Waitress's soundtrack is fun, soulful, and full of heart. With all the talk of pie, you may feel your stomach start to rumble.
My Picks: "It Only Takes A Taste", "She Used To Be Mine", and "Never Ever Getting Rid of Me"
4. "The Book of Mormon"
One of the funniest soundtracks I've heard in a long time. Some of The Book of Mormon can be raunchy and controversial, but mostly it's a heartwarming, hilarious story worth listening to.
My Picks: "I Believe", "Turn It Off", and "Hello!"
5. "Hairspray"
This one is near and dear to my heart, mostly because it was one of the first big musicals I ever performed. This is seriously a great show; not only is it hilarious, but it also touches on key racial issues of the 1960s.
My Picks: "I Can Hear The Bells", "I Know Where I've Been", and "Good Morning Baltimore"