Rent

Essential Track: Seasons of Love

Although many people know the song “Seasons of Love”, thanks to hundreds of renditions from different people, Rent is actually one of the most revolutionizing musicals of all time. A story featuring gay people and revolving in an angle that heavily involves HIV, Rent stood up when no one was daring enough to talk about these taboo topics. It’s a powerful production and one that definitely shook its audience to the core.

Fun fact: There’s a movie version that features (almost) all the original Broadway cast. It’s not the theater production, but it’s amazing.

Dear Evan Hansen

Essential Track: Waving Through a Window

Featuring the adorable and undeniably talented Ben Platt, Dear Evan Hansen is a musical that’s timely and oh-so-relatable. Here’s a teaser: this musical tells stories about not fitting in, being lonely, seeking refuge and validation through online interactions, and mental issues among many others. This production hits so close to home that at some point while listening and understanding the songs, you’ll definitely find yourself shedding a tear or two (or probably buckets of tears, who knows).

Les Miserables

Essential Track: One Day More

This sung-through musical based on Victor Hugo’s novel of the same title is undeniably one of the most famous shows out there. It is the longest-running musical in the West End and has been continuously staged since its first run in October 1985. A powerful musical set in the early 19th century; Les Miserables is a rollercoaster ride, having you witness the rough life and the ups and downs of its central character, Jean Valjean. Listening to the album would take you a while as it’s technically listening to the whole play, but trust me, it’s worth going through.

Hamilton: An American Musical

Essential Track: My Shot

Setting the record of 16 Tony Nominations (winning 11, including Best Musical) in 2016, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton is undeniably one of the fastest rising musicals on Broadway. With sold out shows and a huge following on social media, there is no denying that the genius retelling of Alexander Hamilton’s story is worth giving a shot.

PS: This is a sung- and rap-through musical. Everything that you hear on the cast album is what you’ll exactly hear when you watch the show (except for one reprise that they took out). This cast album is highly addicting, so be prepared.

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