Ohio Rocks! Hit songs from legendary Ohioans – ‘Willkommen’

Pop songs made for radio aren’t the one ones that matter, to critics or music followers. There’ve been many situations of songs from tv reveals, films, and stage performs which have exploded in reputation and turn into popular culture staples. Willkommen is an instance of a composition from a play that grew to become widespread exterior of its medium.

The singer/performer of Willkommen is the legendary Cleveland, Ohio born Joel Gray. He’s carried out in movies, performs, and tv applications. Throughout his 80 yr profession (he began performing in Cleveland when he was ten years previous, he’s now 90.), he’s received Tony, Academy, and Golden Globe Awards. The one function that he’s arguably most recognized for is The Emcee, from the play and film Cabaret. The creepy however fascinating character sings Willkommen as he introduces the viewers (the viewers within the play/movie and us, the precise viewers) to the 1930’s Berlin, Germany nightclub that’s a distinguished location of the story. The Emcee’s efficiency (and the track) can be creepy and interesting, but additionally sexually charged, wikedly humorous, and bawdy. The track was written and produced by John Kander and Fred Ebb.

Right here is Gray’s efficiency of this basic track in a video beneath. It is a risque act in sure elements. However, it’s a knockout bit, and Gray slays in it. I don’t have sufficient house on this article, however Gray’s profession and life is the stuff of legend. It could take presumably two items to correctly listing and analyze his accomplishments. We’ll simply consider one other Ohioan achieved properly and his nice track and contribution to American widespread tradition.

Miami Valley Music Focus explores the locations and other people behind the music of Southwest, Ohio. This sequence is made potential by assist from Ohio Arts Council.