Following an enchanting concert tribute to the work of Richard Rodgers at the Cadogan Hall the other evening, here is Love London Love Culture’s list of favourite Rodgers and Hammerstein songs:
1. The Lonely Goatherd, The Sound of Music: this quirky, playful and lilting song reflects the lighthearted nature of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s collaborations. Interestingly, in the original 1959 musical it was the song used to comfort the children during the storm – not ‘My Favourite Things’!
2. The Gentleman is a Dope, Allegro: the European premiere production taking place at the Southwark Playhouse at the moment showcases refreshing music composed and written by the pair. This relatively upbeat song is sharp and is one of the stand out songs from this rarely performed musical.
(Performed by Katie Bernstein, (c)Danielle Tarento)
3. Getting to Know You, The King and I: this light and airy song is one of the most instantly recognisable songs from the musical because of its lilting rhythm that doesn’t fail to win you over with its playfulness and charm.
4. I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair, South Pacific: filled with plenty of sass and attitude, this classic song from South Pacific feels very much a departure from the more romantic songs that Rodgers and Hammerstein became renowned for – but of course no less catchy and probably a song that has been sung more than once in the shower!
5. Do-Re-Mi, The Sound of Music: this is certainly one of the most cleverly constructed songs that Rodgers and Hammerstein created. Sharp and imaginative, it is no wonder it is one of the most iconic songs written for a musical.
6. Shall We Dance?, The King and I: it is a lively song, yet still has a sense of the romance at the heart of it that makes it a pleasure to listen to. Who doesn’t want to dance while listening to this song?
7. Edelwiess, The Sound of Music: you would have to have a heart of stone not melt at this beautiful song, which almost sounds like a lullaby, with an ability to unite audiences. It is such a delicate song, simple in style but nonetheless needs the right vocals and understanding of the song to carry it off perfectly.
8. Oh What a Beautiful Mornin’, Oklahoma!: chances are that some point or another you have found yourself humming or singing this song. It is certainly one of the most upbeat songs by the pair – oozing in positivity and a great song to start your day with!
9. Climb Ev’ry Mountain, The Sound Of Music: this rousing and operatic sounding song is certainly one of the most powerful songs used in a musical.