KPop Demon Hunters Songwriter Envisions an ‘Amazing’ Stage Musical Adaptation
Mark Sonnenblick, a renowned musical theatre songwriter, has contributed significantly to the viral sensation “Golden” from the animated film KPop Demon Hunters. This song is currently nominated for the Grammy Award for Song of the Year and has won the Critics Choice Award for Best Song. Written in 2023, “Golden” serves as a defining piece in a film about pop stars battling demons with their music.
KPop Demon Hunters: A New Musical Revelation
KPop Demon Hunters tells the story of pop stars using their singing to combat demons. The project is a collaboration involving several notable songwriters, including Ejae, who is the voice of the main character, Rumi. The film is gaining traction on Netflix and Sony Animation, leading to discussions about creating a sequel and a stage musical adaptation.
Sonnenblick expressed his enthusiasm for a potential stage musical adaptation where the songs mirror the structure and functionality found in traditional musical theatre. He believes that the songs blend pop and narrative elements effectively, making it a perfect candidate for a Broadway production.
The Creation of “Golden”
“Golden” was crafted just after the primary songwriting process was established among the collaborators. It was developed with careful attention, as it needed to appeal to both pop music fans and the storytelling aspect of the film. Key themes in the song include Rumi’s struggle with her identity and the pressures of perfection, making it relatable to a wide audience.
The song’s structure features an engaging combination of pop and musical theatre elements. It starts with vibrant, catchy pop sections and transitions into more emotional moments that reveal Rumi’s inner conflicts.
Insights into Other Key Songs
The soundtrack features over 30 songs, with several others that did not make it into the final cut. Among notable compositions are:
- “How It’s Done”: An opening number that sets a dynamic tone, highlighting the characters’ determination.
- “Free”: A showcase of Rumi’s evolving connection with her companion, underscoring themes of vulnerability.
- “Your Idol”: A stark contrast, illustrating the toxic relationship some characters have with music.
- “What It Sounds Like”: The climax of the film, uniting the characters and their journey.
The songs have been designed to serve multiple purposes, balancing catchy tunes with narrative depth. For instance, Sonnenblick noted how the bridge in “Golden” captures Rumi’s vulnerability. This dual function is crucial for engaging the audience and enhancing the storyline.
Anticipation for the Future
With the ongoing success of KPop Demon Hunters, there is palpable excitement for its potential stage adaptation. Sonnenblick and his team want to ensure that the musical retains the same emotional resonance as the animated film. They believe that the inherent qualities of the songs will provide a fulfilling theatre experience.
As fans eagerly await further developments, Sonnenblick affirmed his belief that KPop Demon Hunters could become an iconic stage musical, similar to other successful adaptations in the industry. The thematic depth paired with infectious pop melodies ensures that the story will resonate with audiences of all ages.
