Like many people, I have become obsessed with "Hamilton." From it’s clever rhymes to it’s catchy choruses, I can’t help but sing along with this diverse and creative musical. However, when I tried to introduce "Hamilton" to my family members, I was more than disappointed when they brushed it off due to the rap element that many of the songs contain.
One of the great things about "Hamilton" is that it was reinventing the traditional musical, and that meant introducing rap and hip-hop to the stage. While I enjoy my attempts to "drop a verse" along with our founding fathers, some of my favorite songs from the show are actually the more traditional ballads.
1. "The Story of Tonight"
"Raise a glass to freedom, something they can never taken away. No matter what they tell you." This song (as well as it's reprise) makes me want to join the revolution with some of my best pals. While this is a short song, it's full of passion and camaraderie and it makes you want to raise a glass with them.
2. "Wait For It"
"Death doesn't discriminate between the sinners and the saints. It takes and it takes and it takes and we keep living anyway." This song is probably the most underrated of all. The truth in this song applies to everyone, and it couldn't be more beautifully worded.
3. "Dear Theodosia"
"You will come of age with our young nation. We'll bleed and fight for you. We'll make it right for you." You have to listen to this. The love that a parent has for it's child is so evident in this song.
4. "History Has Its Eyes On You"
"Let me tell you what I wish I'd known, when I was young and dreamed of glory: You have no control who lives, who dies, who tells your story." This song is a perfect wake up call to anyone seeking fame or working too hard to make their life exactly what they want.
5. "One Last Time"
"I want to sit under my own vine and fig tree. A moment alone in the shade, at home in this nation we've made...one last time." While Hamilton didn't understand Washington's reasoning, this song reminds us all that at some point you need to let go and move forward.
6. "It's Quiet Uptown"
"There are moments that the words don't reach; there is a grace too powerful to name. We push away what we can never understand. We push away the unimaginable." Losing a child while your marriage is falling apart is truly unimaginable, and this song portrays it perfectly. You can physically feel their heartbreak in these lyrics.
So yes, the majority of the music from "Hamilton" may be rap and hip-hop, but by calling "Hamilton" a "rap musical," you leave out some of the greatest parts of the show.
