soundtrack – Page 30

Second Hand White Baby Grand (from “Smash”)

From TV show Smash comes “Second Hand White Baby Grand” (2013), performed by Megan Hilty. This is a great demonstration of modulations that are dramatically motivated. The first is around 1:10, and then we return to the original key around 2:32.

So Close (from “Enchanted”)

We close the week with Alan Menken’s “So Close” from the movie Enchanted (2007). I have always been fascinated by the chord progressions and overall form of this song, given that it doesn’t really adhere to the traditional verse/chorus format. There are actually three modulations in this song — the first at 1:54, the second in the instrumental interlude at 2:37 (up a minor third!), and then back down at 2:50 before the vocal returns.

Falling Into You (from “Bridges of Madison County”)

Today we feature Jason Robert Brown for the first time on MotD! “Falling Into You” is from his incredible score for Bridges of Madison County (2014). The whole song is worth listening to — key change around 2:30.

If I Dare (from “Battle of the Sexes”) | Sara Bareilles

The theme song from Battle of the Sexes, the 2017 biopic of 1970s tennis phenom Billie Jean King. Performed by Sara Bareilles, its appearance during the film’s closing credits — after the emotional rollercoaster of the movie itself — is an overwhelming moment. Starting in C major, the chorus shifts to C minor (for the first time at 1:08), then back to C major. The bridge, starting at 2:15, brings a shift to a quieter texture, then a jump to F minor at 2:33 — leading up to a triumphant modulation to G major at 3:18.

Love Will Stand When All Else Fails (from “Memphis”)

We’re featuring a song from the Tony-winning musical Memphis today entitled “Love Will Stand When All Else Falls” (2011), written by David Bryan and Joe DiPietro. A very important message in this song. Key change around 2:10.

David Bowie + Pat Metheny | This is Not America

David Bowie released a 1985 collaboration with composer and guitarist Pat Metheny for the soundtrack of the movie The Falcon and the Snowman, including this standout track, “This Is Not America.” Modulation around 1:22.

For Good (from “Wicked”)

Today we feature “For Good” from Wicked (2003); this version is from the Out of Oz series; the modulation (around 3:10) is definitely a high point. Also featuring Bryan Perri on the keys.

They Just Keep Moving the Line (from “Smash”)

Today, we feature Megan Hilty singing “They Just Keep Moving the Line” from the TV show Smash (2012). While the show itself turned into a bit of a soap opera, some really incredible songs came out of it, and this is one of the best. Modulation at 2:06, but the whole performance is fantastic. Enjoy!

Fantasia | What Christmas Means to Me

Hope everyone had a great Friday. We close this week with “What Christmas Means To Me” (2013) sung by Fantasia (modulation around 1:30). Have a great weekend and Merry Christmas!