"I want" songs

Definition

"I want" songs are a specific type of musical number commonly found in musicals where a character expresses a strong desire or yearning for something, whether it be love, freedom, success, or adventure. These songs often serve as a pivotal moment in the narrative, revealing the character's inner motivations and aspirations while also helping to advance the plot. The emotional weight of these songs often resonates with the audience, making them memorable and relatable as they reflect universal human desires.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. "I want" songs usually occur early in the narrative, setting up the protagonist's goals and motivations.
2. These songs often have catchy melodies and relatable lyrics that capture the essence of what characters desire most.
3. "I want" songs help to establish the tone of the musical, blending emotional depth with entertainment value.
4. They frequently involve a solo performance, allowing for personal expression and connection between the character and the audience.
5. Classic examples of "I want" songs include 'I Want to Be Happy' from 'No, No, Nanette' and 'Part of Your World' from 'The Little Mermaid.'

Review Questions

• How do "I want" songs function within a musical's narrative structure?
  • "I want" songs are crucial in establishing a character's desires and motivations, often appearing early in the story to set the stage for their journey. By expressing what they long for, characters become relatable and engage the audience emotionally. This connection enhances the narrative as it provides insight into their goals, ultimately driving the plot forward as they pursue their aspirations.
• In what ways do "I want" songs contribute to character development throughout a musical?
  • "I want" songs serve as a key moment for character development by revealing their deepest yearnings. As characters articulate their desires through song, audiences gain insight into their hopes and fears. This moment often sparks growth as characters face challenges related to their aspirations, allowing them to evolve as they strive towards achieving what they want.
• Evaluate the impact of "I want" songs on audience engagement and emotional response in musicals.
  • "I want" songs play a significant role in audience engagement by creating moments of emotional resonance that listeners can relate to. When characters express their desires so vividly, it taps into universal themes of longing and aspiration that many people experience. This connection fosters empathy for the characters and enhances the overall enjoyment of the musical experience, as audiences invest emotionally in their journeys toward fulfilling their desires.

Related terms

Character Arc: The journey of a character's development and transformation throughout the story, often involving challenges that help them achieve their desires.

Musical Number: A performance segment within a musical that typically combines song, dance, and acting to convey emotion and advance the storyline.

Emotional Resonance: The capacity of a piece of art, such as a song, to evoke strong feelings and connections with the audience based on shared experiences and emotions.