Did he trip as he walked away from the piano? Aye yai yai! I bet he'll never forget that:) I like him singing this song here better than when he sings it in the revival production. This is one of my favorite Sondheim songs; "make me confused, mock me with praise, let me be used, vary my days" Great lyric but difficult to master the emotional build up and breath control. ( for me anywho.)
Not that I'm saying Raul isn't the most perfect Bobby there's ever been-because he is-but, does anyone else think Seth McFarlane should play this part?
I guess he's a very talented actor but I don't like his style of singing very much... Funny. However I find it wonderfull that there are so many different singers out there! It would be a shame if everyone would like every singer :P But please take a look at Julian Ovenden!
lol, has anyone seen the comments on the full version of this song (ripped from the dvd, that is)? People apparently hate Raul Esparza. I can't understand why.
@louisawhat I just saw that video and I was kind of shocked. Is this guy a douche bag in real life or something? Or do people just not like his voice? I don't get it. I think this version is much more real than the canned versions that people usually praise. Controlled does not always make for a better performer.
sorry to reiterate dollibits..but he is so self-indulgent here. Dean Jones was the "emodiment" of Bobby...and I am sure Stephen Sondheim would agree...
@hwdhillsguy Except Sondheim really liked Esparza's interpretation. Not to mention the fact that this production made the climax of the show this song instead of it being the solution, which changes the intent. Which is actually what Sondheim wanted considering he said we don't really get to see the end.
Wow, I completely believed what he was singing. Adrian Lester take note! This is the first time im seeing the character sing this song, and i love his voice. So raw which ties with the characters resentment so well. So refreshing to see a performer who sings with the truth and soul of the character, rather than pitch perfect dull cover by a camp 'performer'. This is hows it done.
@hwdhillsguy I could not agree with you more. It's a very self-centered performance. His voice isn't nearly as full of intent or powerful. And he completely butchered the rhythms. The focus, as with all Sondheim songs, should be on the lyrics and using one's voice to enhance their meaning. This performance is shameful.
@EarleBrown Indeed. I have never liked Raul. Not an honest sincere moment. It was all about him and how he sounded. THINK THE LYRICS FOR GOODNESS SAKE..and let sincerity ring true. YOu are just the vessel with Sondheim's music..let the story be the star....
@hwdhillsguy As I go down the line reading these comments I'm just getting more pissed. Raul is a fantastic actor, which you might know if you had bothered to watch the whole show, or maybe look at his work on Cabaret or Merrily. He is ABSOLUTELY about truth. Just because he's not making a whole lot of "dumb show", to quote Singing in the Rain, doesn't mean he's not acting. Do you really think such a song would be over the top in acting? He absolutely gets to the core of Bobby's character.
@EarleBrown Its 'shameful' - really?..Its ironic that you think his performance was 'self-centered' because his focus was not on himself or the signing at all but on the character. Its the first time, after seeing Adrian Lesters dull cover, that I have actually seen the character singing this song..this man full of resentment. I think Raul is a fine actor and he got to the core of this part. And I would rather have an actor giving soul to a part , than a soulless, pitch perfect singer anyday.
@Teezer44 Yeah, shameful. Let's put aside the fact that I don't care for his tone (it's not consistent, first it's nasally, then too spread, then too closed). I don't like the idea of the actors playing instruments. Again, it takes the focus away from the song and the lyrics and makes the audience think "Oh wow, this guy can play piano too?!" Dean Jones is far from pitch-perfect. Take a listen to the original cast recording and you'll hear that.
@EarleBrown Okay, the fact that you said Doyle's instrumental interpretation takes the focus away from the show is laughable. Since the name Sondheim is practically synonymous with music I think it's a fantastic interpretation. The whole point is to make it feel like the characters are PART of the music, which is what Sondheim was trying to do.
@dollbits Nope. You misunderstood me. I said the fact that he's playing an instrument is taking focus away from the song and its lyrics. Audiences are now thinking "Oh, wow, he can play piano, too?" rather than focusing on the song itself. It shifts the audience's attention in a negative way.
@EarleBrown why the actors play instroment is becaues and i quote from an interview with raul, " They are not only bobys friends, they are actors, singers, and play instroments thus they are the company. and bobby is not happy and is lying to himself and when he plays the piano, he then faces the truth, which is why his friend play, they kow what they want." to make a long story short, the instroments symbolizes a meaning.
@horerfandod3 I don't believe that that production concept jibes with this show. While the acknowledgement of being on stage, part of the theatre could be used interestingly elsewhere, Sondheim and Furth didn't write it that way. I'm not saying that directors shouldn't interpret material in an interesting way, but the show holds its own without the metatheatrical elements. The psychology of Bobby's character renders his piano-playing irrelevant as it does not need that talent to support it.
@EarleBrown its not a matter of " OOH, he can play piano too". I mean dude, im a big theatre person too. and i have seen several different productions of company, and this production is amazing. and also, as you saiod their are different ways to do a show. sondheim is happy with it. plus, you did not get the point of what i said, the instroments symbolize something in the show, and if you cant see thyat then thats fine. you dont have to like it either.
@horerfandod3 I do understand what you've written regarding the instruments and it's a valid point. That what I was saying about the metatheatrical element of Doyle's production. In my opinion, the story and the message are convoluted by these metaphorical references. The story and the music and lyrics are strong enough to stand alone without them.
@EarleBrown ok, thats cool. the ice is broken. sorry if i came acroos as swtrong, i just tried 5to get a point across, and u r entitled to your own opinion.
@EarleBrown I actually liked this production a lot because of the instruments. I think the weakness of it is the book - most of the characters, especially the men, blend in with each other. You miss the couple's relationships as well as how they are crowding Bobby. This was the first production where this song felt viscerally needed, simply because he was constantly surrounded by people and needed to get away. The instruments also worked in clarifying the character relationships
@mbgriffith68 I must say that I believe the blending of the male characters was a conscious choice. Take for example "Have I Got A Girl For You." This song puts Bobby at odds with not only the other male characters, but the notion that a man should not settle down, but should relish in the possibility of having multiple sexual partners. Having the other men act similarly unites them in their representation of gender stereotypes and helps to distinguish their characters from Bobby's.
@Teezer44 If anything, Raul stays too close to the rhythm written and in doing so he removes the feeling and tension from his singing. His strictness contradicts the unravelling nature of the song, whereas a looser performance would inject more emotion into and support the lyrics. His face shows nothing but smugness and an over-exertion of effort during the last lines of the song.
@EarleBrown You just said before he 'butchered the rhythms' and now your saying he stayed too close to it? Ok. I disagree with everything you wrote, and if even if you don't like a performance, to call something 'shameful' just because its not to your tastes is a bit too harsh and extreme. The award committee and audiences (judging from the majority comments here) all appreciate the artistry here. Its fine if you don't, but at least be consistent with your criticism.
@Teezer44 Butchered the rhythms in the beginning of the song. He seemed to just dive right in and sang the lyric too fast with much too much pause in between those opening lines. Then, he butchered the rhythms in the middle and end sections of the song in that he was not free with them. My criticisms are accurate and appropriate keeping in mind everything that I know about Sondheim and everything that he says during the OBC documentary of the recording of the cast album.
@EarleBrown It's an edited version for the awards. He had to do a heavy 5+ minutes song in just 3 because that's what the producer wanted, of course it seems like he just rush into the lyrics (not to mention that he's doing it without the rest of his cast, totally different from the revival concept). If you don't like it, that's fine, but Sondheim was very pleased with Raul's Bobby and with Doyle's concept.
@turnered8 I understand that the song is edited for time. And perhaps Sonheim was very happy with the outcome. But even given the time constraints, I thought the performance could have been better. I hope no one thinks I'm being critical just to be critical. I've seen Raul have other good performances of other songs not in Company. Personally, I don't feel his voice is right for this number or the show.
@EarleBrown A. his voice isnt nasally, thats just his natural voice.
B. You dont have good voice to sing this song. look up Adrian Lesters interpretation, he is a terrible singer and pulls the song off perfectly. this is a song that everyone can relate to. we all want that special someone we can relat to and understand each other. This one song is everyone. And Raul sings it perfectly.
@horerfandod3 What are you talking about? You need an impeccable voice to sing Sondheim. And yeah, you're right, that it is natural voice. And his natural voice is nasally. Perhaps what you're talking about is something like what Elaine Stritch did in Company. She's not really doing much actual singing, but she pulls off the song beautifully, but she's not going around trying to claim she's a great singer. She's not doing songs that require vocal strength.
@EarleBrown What are you talking about? Sondheim music is, yes, very difficult. And the reason it's so difficult is because of the jumps and odd intervals and timing, not because of the range or way the vocals have to sound. So as long as you have a good ear, which he obviously does since he nails the timing and the intervals, you can generally do it. I'd also argue that the way Sondheim writes makes the music absolutely about the acting of it, not the singing. Just look at "Send in the Clowns".
@EarleBrown Also: his voice is by no means nasally. He's way more rock and roll (see him in Hair/Rocky Horror) than in-the-front Broadway. And I don't know if you've seen the whole show, but his interpretation of Bobby is just beautiful, plus he's a fantastic Charley in Merrily. And thee reason he "screws up the tempo" in the beginning is not because he's unaware of it (considering he's the one setting it). It's because it's appropriate acting-wise. You can take acting liberties with Sondheim.
@dollbits I never said he screws up the tempo, but I don't believe he interpreted it in a valid way. You can take a lot of liberties with any piece, but it doesn't mean you should.
@Teezer44 My overall point bring: There are ways to reinterpret a song without losing its original framework and straying too far from the composer's intent.
Esparza's performance on Broadway is proof that the original is not necessarily the best... his performance as Bobby is the very best! (the original comes from the 70s)
Featured this video on my blog at videobroadway.blogspot.com because I've had the song stuck in my head for the longest time, plus I just LOVE Sondheim!
Great show, amazing performance. That's why I chose to feature it on my blog: videobroadway.blogspot.com/2011/02/we-all-need-little-company-being-alive.html
@TDELH713 more than conspiracey, people are blinded because dhp is a heavey duty celeb and esparza was an unkown to pierce. this video that we watch riht now, is real talent. and yes...Esparza all the way!
This is so brilliant. I hate this production because the idea of the actors themselves playing the instruments is just idiocy, but Raul Esparza saves it even from that.
@broadwaybrent367 Actors on the stage, orchestra in the pit. Call me old-fashioned, but that's the way I like it. I watched the Great Performances of this and I had such a love/hate relationship with it. I start to really get into the characters and how the actors are portraying them, then bam, two seconds later they're over there with a big smile and a cello. Takes me right out of it.
@RichieEastside The one thing i DO like about that is the fact that Bobby is the ONLY one that doesn't play an instrument....until this song, his breaking point. You discover his talent.
I haven't completely warmed up to the idea (despite the fact this was also done with Sweeney Todd), but I do like the fact that all the actors are multi-talented!
@step1990 Your singing on your Channel is excellent, so I thought, you could do a version of Being Alive, either Multitracked or just sung straight, no insults.
@step1990 so is that a yes? seriously you should put a version on and post it to your channel..Multitracking ROCKS, and this would be an excellent song...
@step1990 enough about Mr. Nasal, how about more multitracking from you, your voice much more superior to Vinnie Vibratto. How about YOUR version of Being Alive, I'm sure you'd do a great job, there, you've been told! LOL
@step1990 No one's demanding 'Perfection'?....No one said life or music was black and white?
It's just personal taste, his vibratto is distracting to the lyric, as others have expressed on here, however if this appeals to you, more power to you!
This is not Classical music performance however if it were, his overall nasal quality would be frowned on greatly.
I'm in absolute love with Raul Esparza and the way he sings this in another recording I've seen, but this performance, while incredible, doesn't come near to the level of the other one.
Who would know that he had lost his voice a few days prior to this performance? He's fantastic. And that doesn't even begin to cover it. His emotion is so incredibly strong in this stellar performance, that I had thrills and chills going through me. Raul Esparza--truly a one of a kind performer.
absolutely stunning, no performer is perfect, but if all you people complaining can go and get nominated for a tony i'll apologise. he sang every note and put emotion into it, what more do you want?
The acting is there but I don't see how bad/throat orientated vibrato and very nasal singing can be classed as 'perfection'. Julian Ovenden sings it so much better!
@MasterIsh91 The best versions of Sondheim's greats are performed by people who aren't perfect singers. This is a song for an actor not a singer, he's allowed to be nasally and it still be perfection.
@joec10001 I appreciate that the songs are just as much about acting as they are singing, it's the fact that the sound he makes is not pleasant. When there are so many better people in the world I don't think we should have to put up with someone pulling the phrases around and singing through their nose.
@MasterIsh91 I agree with you exactly...the vibratto and nasal quality is distracting to the lyric....one doesn't have to have a great instrument, but this is just poor technique...This is why I'm not partial to Michael Feinstein and Buble...
@joec10001 Ihave no problem with actor's with limited vocal ranges, and voices that are stellar, however Esparza is singing through his nose, which is not perfection in my books....I couldn't get past it, and I wanted to, as he's bang on emotionally with this song!
@joec10001 I wanted to like this, as he nails it emotionally, but the nasal quality had me cringing.....it's personal taste, and hey, if it works for you, great, I just found it falling short of perfection in my books....
@MasterIsh91 I personally feel like the imperfections in his singing voice are what make his performance of this song so moving. I agree that there are others that sound more pleasant, but this does not mean that the same person would perform it better. I prefer someone that can perform vs. simply singing nicely.
I don't know. I like both renditions (Dean Jones and Raul Esparza). It's hard to compare the two because they came from two different eras. Esparza's is more theatrical and drawn out. Jones was more straight forward, but maybe more genuine.
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
He didn't get the Tony because his voice just isn't that pleasing to listen to. The vibrato is out of control, and he often sings through his nose.. A little overly dramatic for my taste..
I've seen just about every recorded version of this song there is to see, and this tops them all, including the PBS recorded version by Esparza himself. It's like he felt the pressure of the audience of his peers and ate up every moment to rise to the occasion. Had this been a performer with a longer and more decorated career, people would have rightfully stood up.
I usually say that I "get chills" as a figure of speech, but the first time I heard him sing this, I literally felt chills. I didn't know it could actually happen.
Great voice. Too bad he didn't get the Phantom of the Opera movie role instead of Gerard Butler. The role called for edginess, and Mr. Esparza can carry it off without ruining the score as did Mr. Butler.
A lot of people have sounded just as good singing this song. But Mr. Esparza delivers it with an unbridled passion and raw intensity that is unlike any I've ever seen. Absolutely brilliant. I wish he had won the Tony.
Being Alive...it's great isn't it! Thanks for sharing.
atomik4568 5 days ago
So beautiful. I feel like bawling every time.
inthedark222 1 week ago
Did he trip as he walked away from the piano? Aye yai yai! I bet he'll never forget that:) I like him singing this song here better than when he sings it in the revival production. This is one of my favorite Sondheim songs; "make me confused, mock me with praise, let me be used, vary my days" Great lyric but difficult to master the emotional build up and breath control. ( for me anywho.)
ULike2Love 1 month ago
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markh2012 1 month ago
Play 1:51 over and over again....terrifying
168Cloud 2 months ago
this bitch should have never left the piano.
AnthonySharp99 2 months ago
Not that I'm saying Raul isn't the most perfect Bobby there's ever been-because he is-but, does anyone else think Seth McFarlane should play this part?
TheAxelMan100 2 months ago 6
@TheAxelMan100 I could totally see that. He's got the perfect voice for this role.
PeterBluth 2 months ago 2
@TheAxelMan100 I was SO thinking that too!
AnthonyCharlesOnline 2 months ago 2
Best Bobby ever.
MindGrapesful 2 months ago
Songs and performances like this remind me why I long to perform on the Great White Way!
BroadwayBeauty90 2 months ago
I guess he's a very talented actor but I don't like his style of singing very much... Funny. However I find it wonderfull that there are so many different singers out there! It would be a shame if everyone would like every singer :P But please take a look at Julian Ovenden!
rekeszus 3 months ago
@ littlegiry he didnt LOSE the tony... he just didnt win
dsmith18763 3 months ago
His emotional portrayal is perfect !! I love this.
MasterCacophony 3 months ago 2
oh.... well this kills me every time. wow
CorinaJoanBlack 3 months ago
I have listened to his Cast and Watched the DVD like 70 times in the past to weeks haha.
zacharyrobison 4 months ago 2
2:45...dude
TheDieselD13 5 months ago
I still can't believe he's been nominated so many times and yet never won. He deserves to win so badly.
mashellshock 6 months ago
Raul should have won the Tony for playing Philip Sallon in Taboo!
cabeef 6 months ago
This otherwise mellow song is made alive by magnetic man and his powerful singing voice!
insolence 6 months ago
This is intense, but for sheer vocalism, try the Julian Ovenden version from the Sondeim at 80 BBC Proms performance. Wow.
raa1950 6 months ago
Why didn't he get the TONY for this? Wow!
minovisa 7 months ago
Wow... that was amazing.... THANK YOU FANFICTION FOR BRINGING ME HERE!
weirdlightsaber44 7 months ago
Neil Patrick Harris was even better than self-indulgent Esparza!!
hwdhillsguy 7 months ago
lol, has anyone seen the comments on the full version of this song (ripped from the dvd, that is)? People apparently hate Raul Esparza. I can't understand why.
louisawhat 7 months ago
@louisawhat I just saw that video and I was kind of shocked. Is this guy a douche bag in real life or something? Or do people just not like his voice? I don't get it. I think this version is much more real than the canned versions that people usually praise. Controlled does not always make for a better performer.
adag87 7 months ago
@louisawhat Oh yes, they are awful. I don't know why everyone hates him.
InspectorKaramazov 7 months ago
@InspectorKaramazov Raul is amazing. I'm just baffled at all the hate comments too.
McGarvinStudios 6 months ago
@InspectorKaramazov i dont think it's everyone.. only 22 out of 813 dislike him.. very small about 2-3% only
cvetzjuga 6 months ago
I can't stop listening to this... he's amazing!
latinapeacechick 7 months ago
22 people have never been alive. :)
Zealotta 7 months ago 10
When he sings "Mock me with praise" SPEECHLESS!
musicallmia 7 months ago 6
How did he not win the Tony?
kkhatfield 7 months ago
"Mock me with praise." LOL
not1easily1impressed 8 months ago
I still remember when the Tony's aired that year this performance left me utterly breathless. Still does.
MrsVanHansis 8 months ago
His last BEEEEEEEEEEIIINNNNNG ALIIVE just sends chills down my spine.
broadwaymelody33 9 months ago 7
Why'd he lose the Tony again? GAWD.
littlegiry 10 months ago 60
sorry to reiterate dollibits..but he is so self-indulgent here. Dean Jones was the "emodiment" of Bobby...and I am sure Stephen Sondheim would agree...
hwdhillsguy 10 months ago
@hwdhillsguy Except Sondheim really liked Esparza's interpretation. Not to mention the fact that this production made the climax of the show this song instead of it being the solution, which changes the intent. Which is actually what Sondheim wanted considering he said we don't really get to see the end.
dollbits 10 months ago
He's got some Michael Ball in his voice. Especially the high Ab at the end. I like his interpretation.
ImJeanValjean 10 months ago
Wow, I completely believed what he was singing. Adrian Lester take note! This is the first time im seeing the character sing this song, and i love his voice. So raw which ties with the characters resentment so well. So refreshing to see a performer who sings with the truth and soul of the character, rather than pitch perfect dull cover by a camp 'performer'. This is hows it done.
Teezer44 10 months ago
He's no Dean Jones. Self indulgent..and not sincere at all. Thank god we have Dean Jones version on film...
hwdhillsguy 11 months ago
@hwdhillsguy I could not agree with you more. It's a very self-centered performance. His voice isn't nearly as full of intent or powerful. And he completely butchered the rhythms. The focus, as with all Sondheim songs, should be on the lyrics and using one's voice to enhance their meaning. This performance is shameful.
EarleBrown 10 months ago
@EarleBrown Indeed. I have never liked Raul. Not an honest sincere moment. It was all about him and how he sounded. THINK THE LYRICS FOR GOODNESS SAKE..and let sincerity ring true. YOu are just the vessel with Sondheim's music..let the story be the star....
hwdhillsguy 10 months ago
@hwdhillsguy As I go down the line reading these comments I'm just getting more pissed. Raul is a fantastic actor, which you might know if you had bothered to watch the whole show, or maybe look at his work on Cabaret or Merrily. He is ABSOLUTELY about truth. Just because he's not making a whole lot of "dumb show", to quote Singing in the Rain, doesn't mean he's not acting. Do you really think such a song would be over the top in acting? He absolutely gets to the core of Bobby's character.
dollbits 10 months ago
@EarleBrown Its 'shameful' - really?..Its ironic that you think his performance was 'self-centered' because his focus was not on himself or the signing at all but on the character. Its the first time, after seeing Adrian Lesters dull cover, that I have actually seen the character singing this song..this man full of resentment. I think Raul is a fine actor and he got to the core of this part. And I would rather have an actor giving soul to a part , than a soulless, pitch perfect singer anyday.
Teezer44 10 months ago
@Teezer44 Yeah, shameful. Let's put aside the fact that I don't care for his tone (it's not consistent, first it's nasally, then too spread, then too closed). I don't like the idea of the actors playing instruments. Again, it takes the focus away from the song and the lyrics and makes the audience think "Oh wow, this guy can play piano too?!" Dean Jones is far from pitch-perfect. Take a listen to the original cast recording and you'll hear that.
EarleBrown 10 months ago
@EarleBrown Okay, the fact that you said Doyle's instrumental interpretation takes the focus away from the show is laughable. Since the name Sondheim is practically synonymous with music I think it's a fantastic interpretation. The whole point is to make it feel like the characters are PART of the music, which is what Sondheim was trying to do.
dollbits 10 months ago
@dollbits Nope. You misunderstood me. I said the fact that he's playing an instrument is taking focus away from the song and its lyrics. Audiences are now thinking "Oh, wow, he can play piano, too?" rather than focusing on the song itself. It shifts the audience's attention in a negative way.
EarleBrown 10 months ago
@EarleBrown why the actors play instroment is becaues and i quote from an interview with raul, " They are not only bobys friends, they are actors, singers, and play instroments thus they are the company. and bobby is not happy and is lying to himself and when he plays the piano, he then faces the truth, which is why his friend play, they kow what they want." to make a long story short, the instroments symbolizes a meaning.
horerfandod3 10 months ago
@horerfandod3 I don't believe that that production concept jibes with this show. While the acknowledgement of being on stage, part of the theatre could be used interestingly elsewhere, Sondheim and Furth didn't write it that way. I'm not saying that directors shouldn't interpret material in an interesting way, but the show holds its own without the metatheatrical elements. The psychology of Bobby's character renders his piano-playing irrelevant as it does not need that talent to support it.
EarleBrown 10 months ago
@EarleBrown its not a matter of " OOH, he can play piano too". I mean dude, im a big theatre person too. and i have seen several different productions of company, and this production is amazing. and also, as you saiod their are different ways to do a show. sondheim is happy with it. plus, you did not get the point of what i said, the instroments symbolize something in the show, and if you cant see thyat then thats fine. you dont have to like it either.
horerfandod3 10 months ago
@horerfandod3 I do understand what you've written regarding the instruments and it's a valid point. That what I was saying about the metatheatrical element of Doyle's production. In my opinion, the story and the message are convoluted by these metaphorical references. The story and the music and lyrics are strong enough to stand alone without them.
EarleBrown 10 months ago
@EarleBrown ok, thats cool. the ice is broken. sorry if i came acroos as swtrong, i just tried 5to get a point across, and u r entitled to your own opinion.
horerfandod3 10 months ago
@horerfandod3 Absolutely. YouTube arguments can get out of hand very quickly.
EarleBrown 10 months ago
@EarleBrown agreed.
horerfandod3 10 months ago
@EarleBrown I actually liked this production a lot because of the instruments. I think the weakness of it is the book - most of the characters, especially the men, blend in with each other. You miss the couple's relationships as well as how they are crowding Bobby. This was the first production where this song felt viscerally needed, simply because he was constantly surrounded by people and needed to get away. The instruments also worked in clarifying the character relationships
mbgriffith68 8 months ago
@mbgriffith68 I must say that I believe the blending of the male characters was a conscious choice. Take for example "Have I Got A Girl For You." This song puts Bobby at odds with not only the other male characters, but the notion that a man should not settle down, but should relish in the possibility of having multiple sexual partners. Having the other men act similarly unites them in their representation of gender stereotypes and helps to distinguish their characters from Bobby's.
EarleBrown 8 months ago
@Teezer44 If anything, Raul stays too close to the rhythm written and in doing so he removes the feeling and tension from his singing. His strictness contradicts the unravelling nature of the song, whereas a looser performance would inject more emotion into and support the lyrics. His face shows nothing but smugness and an over-exertion of effort during the last lines of the song.
EarleBrown 10 months ago
@EarleBrown You just said before he 'butchered the rhythms' and now your saying he stayed too close to it? Ok. I disagree with everything you wrote, and if even if you don't like a performance, to call something 'shameful' just because its not to your tastes is a bit too harsh and extreme. The award committee and audiences (judging from the majority comments here) all appreciate the artistry here. Its fine if you don't, but at least be consistent with your criticism.
Teezer44 10 months ago
@Teezer44 Butchered the rhythms in the beginning of the song. He seemed to just dive right in and sang the lyric too fast with much too much pause in between those opening lines. Then, he butchered the rhythms in the middle and end sections of the song in that he was not free with them. My criticisms are accurate and appropriate keeping in mind everything that I know about Sondheim and everything that he says during the OBC documentary of the recording of the cast album.
EarleBrown 10 months ago
@EarleBrown It's an edited version for the awards. He had to do a heavy 5+ minutes song in just 3 because that's what the producer wanted, of course it seems like he just rush into the lyrics (not to mention that he's doing it without the rest of his cast, totally different from the revival concept). If you don't like it, that's fine, but Sondheim was very pleased with Raul's Bobby and with Doyle's concept.
turnered8 10 months ago
@turnered8 I understand that the song is edited for time. And perhaps Sonheim was very happy with the outcome. But even given the time constraints, I thought the performance could have been better. I hope no one thinks I'm being critical just to be critical. I've seen Raul have other good performances of other songs not in Company. Personally, I don't feel his voice is right for this number or the show.
EarleBrown 10 months ago
@EarleBrown A. his voice isnt nasally, thats just his natural voice.
B. You dont have good voice to sing this song. look up Adrian Lesters interpretation, he is a terrible singer and pulls the song off perfectly. this is a song that everyone can relate to. we all want that special someone we can relat to and understand each other. This one song is everyone. And Raul sings it perfectly.
horerfandod3 10 months ago
@horerfandod3 What are you talking about? You need an impeccable voice to sing Sondheim. And yeah, you're right, that it is natural voice. And his natural voice is nasally. Perhaps what you're talking about is something like what Elaine Stritch did in Company. She's not really doing much actual singing, but she pulls off the song beautifully, but she's not going around trying to claim she's a great singer. She's not doing songs that require vocal strength.
EarleBrown 10 months ago
@EarleBrown whatever, i guess you know everything there is to know about sondheim.
horerfandod3 10 months ago
@EarleBrown how about this, why dont you post video of you singig being alive. i mean, after all, you seem to know evereything about the song.
horerfandod3 10 months ago
@EarleBrown What are you talking about? Sondheim music is, yes, very difficult. And the reason it's so difficult is because of the jumps and odd intervals and timing, not because of the range or way the vocals have to sound. So as long as you have a good ear, which he obviously does since he nails the timing and the intervals, you can generally do it. I'd also argue that the way Sondheim writes makes the music absolutely about the acting of it, not the singing. Just look at "Send in the Clowns".
dollbits 10 months ago
@EarleBrown Also: his voice is by no means nasally. He's way more rock and roll (see him in Hair/Rocky Horror) than in-the-front Broadway. And I don't know if you've seen the whole show, but his interpretation of Bobby is just beautiful, plus he's a fantastic Charley in Merrily. And thee reason he "screws up the tempo" in the beginning is not because he's unaware of it (considering he's the one setting it). It's because it's appropriate acting-wise. You can take acting liberties with Sondheim.
dollbits 10 months ago
@dollbits I never said he screws up the tempo, but I don't believe he interpreted it in a valid way. You can take a lot of liberties with any piece, but it doesn't mean you should.
EarleBrown 10 months ago
@Teezer44 My overall point bring: There are ways to reinterpret a song without losing its original framework and straying too far from the composer's intent.
EarleBrown 10 months ago
@Teezer44 Agree 100%
turnered8 10 months ago
Goose-fucking-bumps! should've been a standing O. stupid people
Specialcookie246 11 months ago
best ever ...bravo Esparza bravo
urtizberea 11 months ago 30
Esparza's performance on Broadway is proof that the original is not necessarily the best... his performance as Bobby is the very best! (the original comes from the 70s)
TheCBGBoy 11 months ago 2
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Featured this video on my blog at videobroadway.blogspot.com because I've had the song stuck in my head for the longest time, plus I just LOVE Sondheim!
HarmonyWheeler 11 months ago
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videobroadway.blogspot.com
HarmonyWheeler 11 months ago
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Great show, amazing performance. That's why I chose to feature it on my blog: videobroadway.blogspot.com/2011/02/we-all-need-little-company-being-alive.html
HarmonyWheeler 11 months ago
how could he have lost the tony to david hyde pierce
horerfandod3 1 year ago
@horerfandod3 Conspiracy! Esparza all the way!
TDELH713 11 months ago
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@TDELH713 more than conspiracey, people are blinded because dhp is a heavey duty celeb and esparza was an unkown to pierce. this video that we watch riht now, is real talent. and yes...Esparza all the way!
horerfandod3 11 months ago
@TDELH713 amen
horerfandod3 11 months ago
if i were in that audience i would have stood up and bowed to HIM.
mmarie0789 1 year ago
Absolutely stunning, my favourite song of all time :D
bbuckingham93 1 year ago
This is so brilliant. I hate this production because the idea of the actors themselves playing the instruments is just idiocy, but Raul Esparza saves it even from that.
RichieEastside 1 year ago
@RichieEastside How is it idiocy? It actually was very well thought out.
broadwaybrent367 1 year ago
@broadwaybrent367 Actors on the stage, orchestra in the pit. Call me old-fashioned, but that's the way I like it. I watched the Great Performances of this and I had such a love/hate relationship with it. I start to really get into the characters and how the actors are portraying them, then bam, two seconds later they're over there with a big smile and a cello. Takes me right out of it.
RichieEastside 1 year ago
@RichieEastside The one thing i DO like about that is the fact that Bobby is the ONLY one that doesn't play an instrument....until this song, his breaking point. You discover his talent.
I haven't completely warmed up to the idea (despite the fact this was also done with Sweeney Todd), but I do like the fact that all the actors are multi-talented!
carriewhite410 11 months ago 3
I'm not a huge Esparza fan, but this version of Being Alive is the best interpretation and performance of the song ever.
stevethepirate78 1 year ago
grande Esparza muy grande
urtizberea 1 year ago
He is incredible. I love him.
s11msanta 1 year ago
manny different versions of this song. top 2 fave dean jones and RAUL ESPARZA
horerfandod3 1 year ago
I am in love with this man.
InspectorKaramazov 1 year ago
I'm obsessed with this performance.
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cristyalax 1 year ago
@step1990 Your singing on your Channel is excellent, so I thought, you could do a version of Being Alive, either Multitracked or just sung straight, no insults.
stellartunes 1 year ago
@step1990 so is that a yes? seriously you should put a version on and post it to your channel..Multitracking ROCKS, and this would be an excellent song...
stellartunes 1 year ago
Who the fuck dislikes this?????? It's Raul Goddamn Esparza.
ManweArcadio 1 year ago
@ManweArcadio a few on here don't care for it, but you do, so, that's all that matters to you...Last time I checked this wasn't a fan website....
stellartunes 1 year ago
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@stellartunes If you don't care, then don't reply or even be on here.
ManweArcadio 1 year ago
@step1990 enough about Mr. Nasal, how about more multitracking from you, your voice much more superior to Vinnie Vibratto. How about YOUR version of Being Alive, I'm sure you'd do a great job, there, you've been told! LOL
stellartunes 1 year ago
@step1990 No one's demanding 'Perfection'?....No one said life or music was black and white?
It's just personal taste, his vibratto is distracting to the lyric, as others have expressed on here, however if this appeals to you, more power to you!
This is not Classical music performance however if it were, his overall nasal quality would be frowned on greatly.
stellartunes 1 year ago
I still prefer Alex's version on Taxi.
CaptainSiberia 1 year ago
I'm in absolute love with Raul Esparza and the way he sings this in another recording I've seen, but this performance, while incredible, doesn't come near to the level of the other one.
TBevz 1 year ago
Simply amazing
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umayanarosy 1 year ago
Who would know that he had lost his voice a few days prior to this performance? He's fantastic. And that doesn't even begin to cover it. His emotion is so incredibly strong in this stellar performance, that I had thrills and chills going through me. Raul Esparza--truly a one of a kind performer.
Elaizzle 1 year ago
absolutely stunning, no performer is perfect, but if all you people complaining can go and get nominated for a tony i'll apologise. he sang every note and put emotion into it, what more do you want?
itssofluffyx 1 year ago
I just really don't like Raul. At all. I can't stand his voice.
samiam1432 1 year ago
@samiam1432 i agree
13jberk 1 year ago
I love when there is a true Baritone lead on Broadway!!!!!!
BroadwayKing15 1 year ago
This man is a treasure.
krustination 1 year ago 2
Completely Stunning
lyndseymhw 1 year ago
he sang his face off..it is about feeling the lyric..and you can't say he didn't feel what he was singing!
pillsbury28 1 year ago
@pillsbury28 Felt forced and phony to me.
scottcal80 1 year ago
He gave me chills
justconfess 1 year ago 13
The acting is there but I don't see how bad/throat orientated vibrato and very nasal singing can be classed as 'perfection'. Julian Ovenden sings it so much better!
MasterIsh91 1 year ago
@MasterIsh91 The best versions of Sondheim's greats are performed by people who aren't perfect singers. This is a song for an actor not a singer, he's allowed to be nasally and it still be perfection.
joec10001 1 year ago
@joec10001 I appreciate that the songs are just as much about acting as they are singing, it's the fact that the sound he makes is not pleasant. When there are so many better people in the world I don't think we should have to put up with someone pulling the phrases around and singing through their nose.
MasterIsh91 1 year ago
@MasterIsh91 I agree with you exactly...the vibratto and nasal quality is distracting to the lyric....one doesn't have to have a great instrument, but this is just poor technique...This is why I'm not partial to Michael Feinstein and Buble...
stellartunes 1 year ago
@joec10001 Ihave no problem with actor's with limited vocal ranges, and voices that are stellar, however Esparza is singing through his nose, which is not perfection in my books....I couldn't get past it, and I wanted to, as he's bang on emotionally with this song!
stellartunes 1 year ago
@joec10001 I wanted to like this, as he nails it emotionally, but the nasal quality had me cringing.....it's personal taste, and hey, if it works for you, great, I just found it falling short of perfection in my books....
stellartunes 1 year ago
@MasterIsh91 I personally feel like the imperfections in his singing voice are what make his performance of this song so moving. I agree that there are others that sound more pleasant, but this does not mean that the same person would perform it better. I prefer someone that can perform vs. simply singing nicely.
DiscordsApple 1 year ago
MOOOOCK me with praise! Best part.
9freakydarling9 1 year ago 12
@9freakydarling9 Dear GOD do I agree!!!!!!!!!!
soubrette87 10 months ago
I don't know. I like both renditions (Dean Jones and Raul Esparza). It's hard to compare the two because they came from two different eras. Esparza's is more theatrical and drawn out. Jones was more straight forward, but maybe more genuine.
They're both superb singers and performers.
dcbandnerd 1 year ago
I actually like him than Dean Jones.
gbbg43 1 year ago
Simply Superb. I adore watching this video..... This is exactly what Musical Theatre is about xx
ScouseGlinda 1 year ago
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broadwaylvr03 1 year ago
Gerard Butler...?
athousandstrats 1 year ago
@athousandstrats This is Raúl Esparza. But they do look alike. : )
sunnyyichen 1 year ago
You need to check out Julian Ovenden's performance recently. Perfection!!
loland4 1 year ago
@loland4 It's the best "out of context" performance I've ever seen of the song!
Merkin4pres64 1 year ago
I though this was really good, but way too much vibrato for my taste. In my opinion, David Hyde Pierce definitely deserved that Tony, he's a genius!
gamlovesjohnnydepp3 1 year ago
David Hyde Pierce beat this?
cumulusdiscord 1 year ago
I just wanna hump this man's leg.
lcatmurda 1 year ago 2
where is the damned standing "O" ????? these people must have been in a coma at the tony's!!!
mrewetoobish 1 year ago
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Does not get any better than this!!
Ernestjoya 1 year ago
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He didn't get the Tony because his voice just isn't that pleasing to listen to. The vibrato is out of control, and he often sings through his nose.. A little overly dramatic for my taste..
dbrel 1 year ago
Honestly, when he screamed I got kinda scared.
The rest was amazing, of course.
ziggy41 1 year ago 3
The first time I heard this, I was like IS IT EVEN POSSIBLE TO BE THIS AMAZING?
And Raul Esparza was like lolyeah.
MutantQuill 1 year ago 48
I've seen just about every recorded version of this song there is to see, and this tops them all, including the PBS recorded version by Esparza himself. It's like he felt the pressure of the audience of his peers and ate up every moment to rise to the occasion. Had this been a performer with a longer and more decorated career, people would have rightfully stood up.
chimpiki 1 year ago 7
I usually say that I "get chills" as a figure of speech, but the first time I heard him sing this, I literally felt chills. I didn't know it could actually happen.
broadwaymelody33 1 year ago 5
that's incredible
Lara025 1 year ago 2
How did he NOT win the Tony? Gah. Amazing.
saveourplanet14 1 year ago 3
...When he shouted at me... I think I squeed a little..
iwantdetention 1 year ago
Great voice. Too bad he didn't get the Phantom of the Opera movie role instead of Gerard Butler. The role called for edginess, and Mr. Esparza can carry it off without ruining the score as did Mr. Butler.
audiesgirl 1 year ago 10
is it just me, or does that guy kinda look like Gerard Butler?
sarahconnor00 1 year ago 5
@sarahconnor00 he looks like Gerard Butler crossed with Robert Morse
TVLazarus 1 year ago
@sarahconnor00 and Richard Armitage
imamagicllama 1 year ago 3
@sarahconnor00 Yes, it's just you.
elzbieta52 1 year ago
beautiful performance! such intensity!!!! :)
princetuggerelphaba 1 year ago 4
What a voice!
Nomming 1 year ago
A lot of people have sounded just as good singing this song. But Mr. Esparza delivers it with an unbridled passion and raw intensity that is unlike any I've ever seen. Absolutely brilliant. I wish he had won the Tony.
musicalgeek406 1 year ago 7
This is, in my book, the best, greatest, masterpiece that Stephen Sondheim ever wrote. Well done, Master Sondheim...well done!!!!
pannyy55 1 year ago 3
me too CHILLS EVERY TIME !!! amazing talent :)
binosdad 1 year ago 3
i still get chills every time i watch this. He's truly unbelievable.
dadesmone 1 year ago 4
absolutely stunning.
ChelseAlice 1 year ago 3
EPIC WIN!!!!
SpoonsAtMidnight 1 year ago 4
I absolutely wish he would have won the Tony. David Hyde Pierce is also terribly wonderful though, so I'm torn.
bwaygammagurl 1 year ago
Ima let you finish but RAUL ESPARZA GAVE ONE OF THE BEST PERFORMANCES OF ALL TIME, OF ALL TIME.
angelxschunard 1 year ago 158
lol YES
ChelseAlice 1 year ago
@angelxschunard i can't believe he lost out to "niles" .
robbed !!!!!
jcmti 1 year ago
@angelxschunard Screaming isn't a great performance. He doesn't have any of the depth and complexity that Dean Jones did.
scottcal80 1 year ago
Raul Esparza is now one of my favorite singers. AMAZING!!!
sked95 1 year ago 4
ahhh <3
ellphaba113 1 year ago
looks kinda lke Gerald Butler.lol
musicuseit 1 year ago 4
amazing! 1.52 makes me laugh! Lol x
danisamazin 2 years ago 2
simply incredible, alone is not alive, and when you go through a suicide this brings me joy...............