As we move towards International Women’s Day (March 8th….note it down folks!), we’re taking a look at the work of some incredible women who broke through the male-dominated world of musical theatre writing. So get ready to delve deep into these brilliant songs written by women for women.
1. “She Used to Be Mine” from Waitress (music & lyrics by Sara Bareilles)
A beautiful and emotional tug at the heart strings – check out Jessie Mueller and Sara Bareilles’ stunning performance at the 70th Tony Awards.
2. “Me and the Sky” from Come From Away ( music & lyrics by Irene Sankoff*)
Come From Away was Tony-nominated for Best Original Score and this song perfectly showcases the musical’s carefully crafted music and lyrics.
3. “So Much Better” from Legally Blonde ( music & lyrics by Nell Benjamin*)
A triumphant song that celebrates success in the face of adversity. And it’s pretty fun too!
4. “Let It Go” from Frozen (Kristen Anderson-Lopez*)
I know, I know, we’ve all heard it a billion times. BUT that doesn’t stop “Let It Go” being the perfect example of female empowerment!
5. “Sun’s Gonna Shine” from Bright Star (Edie Brickell*)
A beautiful bluegrass number full of yearning and hope.
6. “The Bus From Amarillo” from The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (music & lyrics by Carol Hall)
A powerful alto ballad that asks the question: “What if?”
7. “Backwoods Barbie” from 9 to 5 (music & lyrics by Dolly Parton)
A determined reminder that there is much more to a woman than her appearance. (Yes Dolly!)
8. “The History of Wrong Guys” from Kinky Boots (music & lyrics by Cyndi Lauper)
A funky little number about having a crush on the wrong guy…doh!
9. “Shy” from Once Upon a Mattress (music by Mary Rodgers)
A fun “I Am” song, first performed by Carole Burnett in her Broadway debut in 1959.
10. “It’s a Perfect Relationship” from Bells are Ringing (lyrics by Betty Comden*)
Another fun song about the perils of unrequited love!
* denotes that the score had additional writing team partners.
2 comments
Great list! I did want to point out that it is Backwoods Barbie not Backwards Barbie.
Glad you enjoyed! Thanks for spotting, autocorrect is annoying sometimes!! Happy reading.