I cannot get enough of this extraordinary cast album of the Broadway phenomenon "Hamilton." It is no exaggeration to say that this old white man has been seen in the corridors of my office building repeating some of the most infectious raps from "Hamilton"!
Lin Manuel Miranda is a certified genius - he just received a MacArthur Genius Grant. Inspired by the Alexander Hamilton biography penned by Ron Chernow, Mr. Miranda spent six years crafting a musical interpretation of this Founding Father's little known story. The results are a show that is the hottest ticket on Broadway and one of the finest cast albums I have ever had the privilege to listen to.
Part of Miranda's genius is that he has deep knowledge not only of the primary subject matter, but of the history of rap and of musical theater. So the lyrics are imbedded with many clever references, allusions and tributes to songs and shows from the past. Lines like "You've got to be carefully taught," are drawn from "South Pacific." "Modern Major General" is a tip of the cap to Gilbert and Sullivan.
"Hamilton" has become not only a Broadway phenomenon, but also a revolutionary way to inspire high school students to become passionate about an oft-forgotten part of our nation's history. The Rockefeller Foundation has just awarded a grant that will allow over 20,000 NYC AP History students to attend special matinee performances of "Hamilton."
It may be many months before you are able to snag a ticket to see this show on Broadway, but you do not have to wait to order, listen to and exult in the striking music and lyrics of this show's brilliant cast album.
Enjoy!
Al
ticketshamilton.online
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