Lin-Manuel Miranda, the celebrated actor and songwriter, recently opened up about his proudest creation from the iconic Broadway sensation, “Hamilton.” During the premiere of “Hamilton” at The Delacorte Theater in New York City on September 3, Miranda shared insights into his acclaimed work.
Miranda expressed his contentment and pride in one particular song from “Hamilton,” highlighting “Wait For It” as his standout piece. The song, performed in Act 1 by the character Aaron Burr, played a significant role in resonating with audiences. Miranda noted, “That song, I’ve seen a lot of tattoos of it, which is how I know it really resonates with people.”
Leslie Odom Jr., known for his portrayal of Aaron Burr in the musical, also found “Wait For It” to be a favourite. Odom Jr. emphasised the impact of songs like “Wait For It,” highlighting their importance in storytelling within the musical landscape.
The lyrics of “Wait For It” contain powerful lines such as, “Death doesn’t discriminate between the sinners and the saints / It takes and it takes and it takes and we keep living anyway.” These poignant words, coupled with the emotional depth of the song, have cemented its significance for both Miranda and Odom Jr.
Odom Jr.’s portrayal of Aaron Burr earned him a Tony award for Best Lead Actor in a Musical during the esteemed Tony Awards ceremony in 2016. The success of “Hamilton” was further highlighted as the production clinched a total of 11 Tony awards that year, including the prestigious Best Musical award.
Reflecting on the enduring impact of the songs in “Hamilton,” Odom Jr. drew parallels to classic standards by legendary artists like Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra. He expressed confidence in the longevity of songs like “Wait For It,” envisioning them as future classics that will stand the test of time.
Miranda’s craftsmanship in creating such timeless pieces within “Hamilton” showcases his ability to captivate audiences and transcend generations with his music. The profound storytelling and emotional depth woven into songs like “Wait For It” underscore Miranda’s exceptional talent as a songwriter.
As “Hamilton” continues to captivate audiences with its compelling narrative and memorable music, Miranda’s revelation about his proudest creation sheds light on the creative genius behind the iconic Broadway production. The enduring legacy of “Hamilton” and the impact of songs like “Wait For It” serve as a testament to Miranda’s unparalleled artistry and the timeless appeal of his music.