I'm looking for recommendations for a good "torch"-style song for a male. Thinking about it, I may be misusing the term, basically I'm looking for a song that starts off quietly and builds up to something pretty big.

Something like "This is the moment" from Jekyll and Hyde. But not that one, it's already been done. "Unsettled Scores" from Whistle Down The Wind would be another. But I'd like something that's not quite as weel-kent as that.

Any suggestions? Thanks,

regards,
/alan

To dream the impossible dream... etc etc Man of La Manch..




Lonely Room . oklahoma...

If you have the stamina, and eight minutes or so to spare, "Soliloquy" from Carousel.
"If I were a Rich Man" from Fiddler on the Roof.

If you are have a reasonable high range (tenor preferably) take a look at "Anthem" from Chess (no man, no madness, though their sad power may prevail...) or Pity the Child from the same show (I never asked if I caused her distress, just in case she said... yes) which really does need tenor range.

If you like something more tender, and not so high in pitch, how about "Now I've seen you" from Honk!, or "How to handle a woman" from Camelot?

There's no reason, out of context, that you couldn't try "Before the parade passes by" from Hello Dolly.

Puzzlement from "The King and I"

I am what I am from La Cage aux Folles

Stars, Bring Him Home & Do you hear the people sing from Les Mis,
Something's coming, Somewhere & Maria from West Side Story

South Pacific - This nearly was mine, Younger than Springtime
My Fair Lady - On the street where you live
You're nothing without me - City of Angels

Being Alive from Company.

'Look Who's Alone Now' from Nick and Nora, though that does fade away again to a quiet ending after the build.

If I ruled the World from Pickwick.

Thanks for all the suggestions.

I was hoping for something that wouldn't be instantly familiar, so I was wanting to avoid some of the songs that have been suggested.

"Anthem" was one I frequently did, but I have to confess that since I've not had a singing lesson for seven years, my top G isn't as confident as it used to be. "Pity The Child" is just about a hundred miles out of my range

The "City of Angels" choice might be interesing, as may "Being Alive". If nothing else, they're shows I haven't heard before, so it will be fun trying!

"If I Ruled The World" is an excellent suggestion - I'll have a good think about that. Other ones that came to mind were "If I Have To Live Alone" from The Baker's Wife and "Like A God" from Flower Drum Song.

I'll let you know what I come up with.

Thanks again.

regards,
/alan

"Good Old Girl" from Best Little Whorehouse in Texas would probably be perfect. It's a baritone part, starts slowly and low and builds up, and is sung by the Sheriff in the stage musical.