In a heartfelt gesture to console Broadway fans amidst the current COVID-19 shutdown, Lin-Manuel Miranda, the Tony-winning creator of the iconic musical Hamilton, has shared an unreleased song from the groundbreaking show. The track, entitled “I Have This Friend”, provides a beacon of hope and a reminder of the resilience of the theatre community during these challenging times.
Miranda released the cut track via his Twitter account, along with a SoundCloud link allowing fans to access and enjoy the previously unheard song. The melody, which features Miranda and his Tony-nominated co-star Christopher Jackson, showcases the duo’s dynamic synergy that made Hamilton a worldwide sensation. The pair, who portrayed Alexander Hamilton and George Washington respectively in the musical, deliver the song accompanied by a keyboard and drum machine, adding a raw and intimate touch to the unreleased piece.
The release of “I Have This Friend” coincides with the ongoing temporary shutdown of Hamilton and all other Broadway productions. As a safety precaution amidst the global pandemic, Broadway theatres have ceased operations through April 12, marking an unprecedented pause in the city’s vibrant theatre scene.
In his tweet, Miranda wrote, “Wish we could be there tonight. Stay safe everyone.” His empathetic message is a testament to his deep concern for the Broadway community and the collective effort required to weather the COVID-19 storm.
Hamilton’s meteoric rise to global fame began when it made its Broadway debut in August 2015. The musical, which employs hip-hop and R&B tunes to narrate the life of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, has been applauded for its innovative storytelling, diversity, and the powerful performances of its ensemble cast. The show has swept major theatre awards, earning 11 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
The unreleased track’s emergence from the Hamilton archives serves as a poignant reminder of the vibrant energy and emotional depth the musical brought to the stage. Even as theatres remain dark, the spirit of Broadway and the power of its stories endure.
Miranda’s release of “I Have This Friend” emphasizes that even in times of crisis, art continues to inspire, uplift, and unite. It serves as a testament to the resilience of the Broadway community and offers a glimmer of hope for theatre enthusiasts worldwide. Fans can listen to the song, reflect on the powerful messages of Hamilton, and look forward to the day when the curtain once again rises on the Broadway stage.
As Broadway goes dark, Miranda’s unreleased Hamilton track promises a return of the lights, action, and impassioned performances that theatre-goers across the globe have come to love. It is a comforting note amidst the silence, reminding us all that the show indeed must, and will, go on.