Overview
This lecture discusses the genre elements of the musical "Hamilton", with a focus on how hip-hop is integrated and how the show plays with musical and theatrical conventions.
Hamilton and Genre
- "Hamilton" is a musical, a type of theater that includes music, distinguishing it from non-musical plays.
- Unlike many musicals, listening to the "Hamilton" album provides almost the full story.
- Lin-Manuel Miranda originally conceptualized "Hamilton" as a hip-hop album before it became a stage musical.
- "Hamilton" was inspired by Ron Chernow's biography of Alexander Hamilton.
Hip-Hop and Convention in Hamilton
- Most of "Hamilton" uses hip-hop, a music genre not typical for traditional musicals.
- Hip-hop emerged as a form of self-expression for communities outside mainstream traditions.
- Hip-hop conventions, like boasting, are present in "Hamilton" and align with the revolutionary themes.
- The show also includes songs in more traditional Broadway styles, creating genre contrast.
Form and Content
- Different characters in "Hamilton" rap or sing in distinct styles reflecting their personalities and politics.
- The musical form (song style, rhythm) is used to emphasize character traits and narrative themes.
- The contrast between characters' musical styles (e.g., Hamilton vs. Burr, revolutionaries vs. King of England) is significant.
Approaching Hamilton as a Listener
- Students should think about which elements of "Hamilton" follow musical conventions and which disrupt them.
- Listeners are encouraged to compare the hip-hop elements of "Hamilton" to other hip-hop songs and musicals.
- Consider how "Hamilton" is both similar to and different from other works in its genre.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Musical — A form of theater that combines songs, spoken dialogue, acting, and dance.
- Genre — A category of artistic composition characterized by similarities in form or style.
- Hip-hop — A musical genre originating in marginalized communities, often defined by rhythmic speech (rap) and social commentary.
- Convention — Common features or accepted practices within a particular artistic genre.
- Boasting — A style of self-praise or braggadocio, typical in hip-hop lyrics.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Listen to the first eight songs from "Hamilton."
- Read the provided synopsis of Act One if you need background on the American Revolution.
- Reflect on how the musical's form and genre reflect its characters and themes.