Forbidden Broadway, Vol. 1 cover

Forbidden Broadway, Vol. 1

Gerard Alessandrini · 1984

40 min · 14 tracks

A witty and satirical homage to Broadway, blending iconic tunes with sharp humor and clever parody.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Forbidden Broadway — The title track sets the tone for the entire album, blending humor with incisive commentary on Broadway's biggest hits. It encapsulates the essence of the show's spirit and establishes Alessandrini's voice as a leading figure in musical satire.
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    Don't Cry for Me (Don't Cry for Me, Argentina) — This parody cleverly twists the lyrics of a beloved classic into a humorous critique of celebrity culture and the drama inherent in Broadway narratives. Its recognition among audiences demonstrates Alessandrini's knack for biting wit.
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    Be a Catholic (Be Italian) — This track playfully engages with themes of identity and cultural stereotypes while utilizing a memorable melody to enhance its comedic effect. It showcases Alessandrini's ability to blend humor with poignant observations.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Don't Cry for Me (Don't Cry for Me, Argentina)

    The song shifts from heartfelt lament to self-deprecating humor about fame and expectation.

    This shift not only subverts audience expectations but also cleverly critiques the tendency of musicals to indulge in melodrama.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Forbidden Broadway 2:07
  • 2 Amadeus (Non Plu Andral) 2:33
  • 3 Don't Cry for Me (Don't Cry for Me, Argentina) 3:32
  • 4 Annie's Favorite Showtune (Tomorrow) 1:05
  • 5 Pirates of Penzance Sequence 5:54
  • 6 Be a Catholic (Be Italian) 2:00
  • 7 Triplets 2:14
  • 8 Bankable Stars (Beautiful Girls) / I'm Entertainment (That's Entertainment) 2:41
  • 9 Angela Lansbury Sequence 3:04
  • 10 Audition Sequence 2:11
  • 11 Merman & Martin Sequence 3:40
  • 12 Carol Channing Sequence 3:35
  • 13 Ambition (Tradition) 4:52
  • 14 Forbidden Broadway (reprise) 0:33

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata