Why Hamilton (2015- ) is a national treasure and deserves more hype

Lin-Manuel Miranda for President

Photo courtesy of Steve Jurvetson/Flickr

I am starting this article assuming everyone knows what Hamilton (2020- ) is and the history it represents. When Lin-Manuel Miranda curated this musical into the greatness that it is, I doubt he knew what cultural reformation he was eliciting. 

I do not understand hate towards Hamilton (2020-) when it encompasses drama, music, humor, history, and more; it is perfect. My take on why some people dislike the hit musical is that its rise correlates with the downfall of American interest in history and lack of education—but this is a different conversation, and there is of course a chunk of the population who hate Hamilton (2020- ) simply because they are haters.

The musical excellence in the production is truly unmatched in my expert opinion as an avid musical soundtrack listener and former dancer who danced to a multitude of these songs. Many of the songs carry a strong message that is applicable to today’s historical context, while also remaining relevant to regular life events. To be completely transparent, the Hamilton (2020-) soundtrack is the best study playlist, and if you disagree, you do not understand the feeling of being a Founding Father running out of time. 

Whenever I listen to the soundtrack from the musical, I am instantly inspired by the riveting lyrics and beats. While the musical itself puts a jocular spin on historical events, the music fully connects everything back to the history. Furthermore, there is something about picturing a modern cast without Founding Father ponytails performing the songs that adds a unique level of entertainment. Overall, it is an unmatched playlist in terms of history, emotion, and motivation. Hamilton wrote like he was “running out of time”—let’s all channel this energy daily.

A common debate in the glorious world of Hamilton (2020- ) is the inclusion of the song “Burn” over “First Burn;” “Burn” is undoubtedly the better fit for the musical in my expert opinion, but this is an ongoing debate. When I say that this is a debate, I mean that friendships have combusted over this. 

“First Burn,” while being an amazing song, does not fit the musical’s portrayal of Eliza Hamilton. This version conveys so much more anger and hatred, which would not make sense with Eliza’s forgiveness of Alexander Hamilton later on. “Burn” is a more accurate reaction from Eliza and captures her character in a more fitting light. The lyrical genius that went into “Burn” is also unmatched—I dare say better than Taylor Swift’s lyricism. 

For example, “You have married an Icarus. He has flown too close to the sun" is one of my favorite lines from “Burn.” If you grew up as a mythology nerd, this line is captivating. Angelica, Eliza’s sister, is conveying that Alexander let his ego get the best of him, which led to him cheating on Eliza, and therefore, falling from grace and political circles. “The Reynolds Pamphlet” confirms the fall from social grace by saying, “Well, he’s never gon’ be President now” multiple times throughout the song. 

Another important point to mention is the immaculate casting of Hamilton (2020- ). Lin-Manuel Miranda casted as Alexander Hamilton is truly one of the best decisions. I know many people dislike his singing, but the rawness and overall imperfect voice of Miranda is absolutely perfect for Hamilton’s character. Obviously, Leslie Odom Jr. as Hamilton’s competitor, Aaron Burr, was another phenomenal choice. The vocals, refinery, and overall chemistry between the actors was a match made in heaven. In my opinion, every actor in the musical was put on this earth to play their character.

So if you do not like Hamilton (2020-), we may not get along, and that is okay. I do think everyone should give it a fair shot though!