One of my biggest accomplishments (or something I like to brag about) is being able to recite and perform the musical “Hamilton,” the hit Broadway ten years ago on January 20, 2015. The musical follows Alexander Hamilton and shows his impact on the American Revolution. Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the musical hit top charts in 2015, and I am pleased to say that I still take the time to listen to this musical masterpiece whenever I can.
While I would love to talk about all of the songs in “Hamilton,” it would end up with me writing an entire book. As a result, here are some songs that stood out to me the most.
“Alexander Hamilton”
Starting from the top, the first song appropriately named “Alexander Hamilton” introduces us to the young politician who has just graduated colleg. He is looking for Aaron Burr in an attempt to become a part of the revolutionary war and find his claim to fame in the political world.
“My Shot”
This has always been one of my favorite songs in the first act. The line “I am not throwing away my shot” has been something I have used as motivation in sports, when I am writing or even when I am applying for a job. This song encompasses Hamilton’s desire to be a part of the political scene and his drive for greatness.
“Wait For It”
The 13th song in the first act, “Wait for It,” looks into the background of Burr and gives insight into his life. Burr references his inner conflict with Hamilton, singing “Hamilton doesn’t hesitate / he exhibits no restraints, he takes and he takes / and he takes,” demonstrating the brewing battle between the two. This has to be my No. 1 song in the first act since it is a very sensitive moment for Burr and it helps us understand the characters better as the story progresses.
“Dear Theodosia”
One of the calmer songs in the album, “Dear Theodosia,” has stood out to me since the first time I heard it. This is the only time in the show that Hamilton and Burr harmonize, and I can safely say that it is my favorite harmony in the show.
The Cabinet Battles
There are two Cabinet Battles in Act 2. In “Cabinet Battle #1,” Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson duel it out in a rap battle as Hamilton tries to promote his ideas of creating a national bank while Jefferson argues against it. “Cabinet Battle #2” looks at whether or not the newly-formed country should give aid to France right before they go to war with Great Britain. Jefferson, who spent time in France, argues they should help them, while Hamilton disagrees, arguing that they do not have the resources to help France.
“The Room Where It Happened”
I am including this song because of the beat and because it contains some of my favorite lyrics in the entire show. The song has a very jazz-like piano and occasional appearances of trumpets. The line that is my favorite and that I have held onto for a long time is “You don’t get a win unless you play in the game.” I have used this line in sports as motivation to remind myself to never give up and to push through the darkest of times.
“Burn”
“Burn” is sung by Eliza near the end of the act. What I love about this song is that despite the premise of Eliza telling the audience how mad and how upset she is at Hamilton, Eliza ends up portraying her independence and shows that she does not need Hamilton to get by.
Overall, I strongly suggest watching Hamilton. It is a true Broadway masterpiece!
