Glee stepped down in my eyes to the power that was SMASH this year. Sure, like Glee, it’s had its share of ups and downs (Megan Hilty’s awkward rendition of Jessie J’s “Who You Are”). But what this show has proven is just how great and magical Broadway is! And it’s also proven just how much love I have for Katharine McPhee. Let’s take a look back at this explosive first season…
10.) “The 20th Century Fox Mambo”
(from the episode “The Callback”)
Katharine McPhee has certainly come a long way from her early days on American Idol, and even though this was only the second episode of the season Karen (McPhee) already grew so much from her first audition. It was this saucy musical number that had me believing the part was destined to be hers. We’ll find out soon enough at the end of the finale if this is her destiny…
9.) “Let’s Be Bad”
(from the episode “Let’s Be Bad”)
Megan Hilty as actress Ivy Lynn has it all going for her. Such determination, such a voice, and such a strong presence, she’s the one we all love to hate. It was this song that truly showcased what dynamics she had as she portrayed a rough time in Marilyn Monroe’s life and career.
8.) “History Is Made At Night”
(from the episode “Chemistry”)
Here is a sweet duet between Ivy and Michael Swift (Will Chase) that brings to mind that sweet doo-wop sounds of the 1950’s.
7.) “Smash!”
(from the episode “Previews”)
6.) “Touch Me”
(from the episode “The Coup”)
This may have been a bit out there when it came to the concept of a Marilyn Monroe musical, but there’s no denying the fact that this was a standout of the season. Karen (McPhee) once again made a serious sizzle on the screen to the rhythm and music of the genius that is Ryan Tedder.
5.) “A Thousand and One Nights”
(from the episode “Publicity”)
Lord knows just how much I love me some Dev (Raza Jaffrey). He may not have THE strongest voice. This may have been THE most bizarre and random musical number of the season. However, there’s no denying the fact that this was certainly the most fun and the most memorable.
4.) “Run”
(from the episode “Publicity”)
This is a cover that has already been covered beautifully by Brit Leona Lewis, but McPhee puts in a little bit more heart and soul as she shows actress Rebecca Duvall (Uma Thurman) what she’s capable of.
3.) “I’m Going Down”
(from the episode “Tech”)
Nothing is better than a woman scorned singing her heart out. Ivy (Hilty) began to feel her relationship with director Derek (Jack Davenport) start to fade away. And as she began to reach her breaking point during their tech rehearsals before their preview performances, she had this to sing about. Such passion, such emotion, and such a voice!
2.) “It’s A Man’s Man’s Man’s World”
(from the episode “Let’s Be Bad”)
Man oh man, Karen (McPhee) finally let loose and showed off her sexy, sultry side with this James Brown cover. It even got ME a little hot and bothered! This is definitely a million times better than the ridiculous pregnant routine on Glee two years ago…
1.) “Let Me Be Your Star”
(from the episode “Pilot”)
It was the pivotal moment in the pilot episode. This musical number ended the first episode with a bang as we see a true Broadway moment as Karen and Ivy belt their way to the audition of a lifetime. The song was emotional, over-the-top, inspirational, and goosebump-worthy from start to finish. Not only did it showcase the ambition within these two actress hopefuls, but it showcased the amazing songwriting that captured a young and upcoming Marilyn Monroe.
