The Broadway theater scene is experiencing a shift in the source of its sound, with more musicals being written by pop musicians rather than those trained in theater. Artists like Alicia Keys, Barry Manilow, Britney Spears, and others are making their mark on Broadway with original scores. This trend is reminiscent of the early 20th century when figures like Irving Berlin and Cole Porter found success both onstage and on the radio. The allure of pop stars for the theater industry lies in the familiarity of their music, which sells tickets and attracts audiences.
Pop musicians are motivated to write for theater not just for economic reasons but also for artistic expression. Sara Bareilles, for example, wrote the score for “Waitress” and is now working on her second musical, “The Interestings.” Artists understand the importance of diversifying their creative output, which is essential in today’s industry. However, there is debate over whether pop songs advance storytelling in musicals. Some argue that an obsession with narrative progression can result in weak tunes, while others believe that this trend enriches the art form. The influx of pop musicians in Broadway is changing the landscape of musical theater.
Despite the economic challenges facing the theater industry since the pandemic shutdown, the presence of pop musicians brings a new energy to Broadway. Audiences are drawn to familiar music by well-known artists, leading to a diverse range of musicals being produced. From jukebox musicals like “Jersey Boys” and “Mamma Mia!” to original scores by artists like John Legend, Elvis Costello, and Neko Case, there is a growing interest in blending pop music with theater. This fusion of genres is spurring creativity and innovation in the world of musical theater.
The trend of pop musicians writing for Broadway is not entirely new, harkening back to a time when artists were successful in both theater and the music industry. Figures like Elton John, Cyndi Lauper, and Duncan Sheik have paved the way for contemporary pop artists to make their mark on Broadway. This resurgence in pop music on Broadway reflects a desire to break free from traditional norms and experiment with new sounds and storytelling methods. The cross-pollination of music genres is creating a dynamic and vibrant theater scene that appeals to a wider audience.
As the Tony Awards celebrate the best of Broadway each year, the influence of pop musicians on the theater industry is becoming more prominent. From original scores by artists like Alicia Keys and Britney Spears to adaptations of classic works with a modern twist, pop music is making its mark on the stage. While some may question the impact of pop music on storytelling in musicals, others see it as a positive evolution of the art form. The fusion of pop and theater is creating new opportunities for collaboration and innovation in musical theater, opening up the possibilities for future generations of artists and audiences alike.
Overall, the shift in the source of Broadway’s sound towards pop musicians reflects a changing landscape in the theater industry. With a growing number of artists from the music business turning to Broadway, there is a renewed sense of creativity and experimentation in musical theater. While the influence of pop music on storytelling in musicals may be up for debate, the presence of pop musicians on Broadway is undeniably shaping the future of the art form. As the theater industry continues to evolve, the fusion of pop music and theater promises to bring new voices, perspectives, and experiences to audiences around the world.
