The Songs We Were Singing

Episode 4: The King And I Film Soundtrack


Listen Later

The Songs We Were Singing completes its trilogy of Rogers and Hammerstein musicals with the album that would go on to be the most successful LP of 1957: The King and I. Featuring a breakout performance from Yul Bryner, the film went on to pick up five Oscars (including two for sound) and features classic tracks like Getting To Know You, Something Wonderful and I Whistle A Happy Tune.
As popular as the musical remains, the film's approach to slavery, "yellow face" and imperialism makes it hugely controversial in the modern era, but how does it stack up musically? Join Jo and Andrew as they dive deep into a problematic musical classic.
Notes:
Allmusic review: https://www.allmusic.com/album/the-king-and-i-original-movie-soundtrack-recording-mw0000195558
BBC news article mentioned on the show: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-44709484
...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

The Songs We Were SingingBy The Songs We Were Singing