This article is part of the Voyeur 2020 
According to Jack Viertel’s “The Secret Life of the American Musical,” most traditional productions include an overture, opening number, “I want”
song, entr’acte, eleven o’clock number, and finale. However, almost all Broadway musicals have something else in common: at least one love song. Below are some of the best:
“I’ll Cover You” from “RENT”
This enchanting song is a duet between Angel Dumott-Schunard and Tom Collins III. While the reprise later in the show is ultimately better, though much sadder, this song is one of Jonathon Larson’s most recognizable masterpieces. It is a sweet declaration of head-over-heels commitment between two people after only one night together. It is, perhaps, the most well-known musical theatre song featuring the love between a queer couple.
“Johanna” from “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”
Although the lyrics of this song can come across as creepy (i.e. “I’ll steal you…”), the overwhelmingly beautiful Stephen Sondheim melodies make this song one of the most memorable in “Sweeney Todd.” Anthony Hope sings this song and instantly falls in love with Johanna Barker, who is locked away by the wicked Judge Turpin.
“Dear Theodosia” from “Hamilton”
Unlike the previous two, this song is not about the romantic love between two individuals. It is a duet sung by Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton addressing the unconditional love they will give their children. They both reflect on the failings of their own parents and solemnly vow to be better by saying “I promise I’ll be there for you.”
“Only Us” from “Dear Evan Hansen”
This song is a more traditional love song. Written in the tranquil contemporary pop style that Pasek and Paul have perfected over the years, “Only Us”
is a duet where Zoe Murphy is trying to convince Evan Hansen that she loves him for him and not for anything else.
The Great White Way has no shortage of love songs, whether about romantic or platonic love. Since theatre has been around for centuries, there is definitely a song out there that is perfect to reflect on how you’re feeling. All you have to do is look.
