Songwriters Benj Pasek and Justin Paul join the elite EGOT club
A new milestone in entertainment
The world of entertainment has just witnessed a remarkable achievement. Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the dynamic songwriting duo, have officially joined the prestigious EGOT club. This exclusive group is reserved for individuals who have won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony award. Pasek and Paul, known for their exceptional contributions to musical theater and film, have now added an Emmy to their collection, completing their EGOT journey.
The journey to EGOT
From ‘La La Land’ to ‘Dear Evan Hansen’
Pasek and Paul first captured the hearts of audiences with their Oscar-winning work on La La Land. Their enchanting melodies and heartfelt lyrics earned them the Academy Award for Best Original Song. Following this success, they continued to make waves in the theater world with Dear Evan Hansen, a musical that not only won them a Tony but also a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album.
The Emmy win: ‘Which of the Pickwick Triplets Did It?’
Their latest triumph comes from the hit TV series Only Murders in the Building. The song “Which of the Pickwick Triplets Did It?”, co-written with Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, won the Emmy for Best Song. This quirky and challenging piece was a standout moment in the series, adding a layer of intrigue and humor to the storyline.
Behind the scenes: Crafting a complex melody
Inspiration in unexpected places
The show’s co-creator shared an interesting anecdote about the song’s inception. “It came to me in the shower,” he recalls. “I literally just thought, ‘Oh, which of the Pickwick triplets did it?’ The constable character, played by Steve in the play, was on a mission to uncover which of these little baby triplets could have killed their mother — which is preposterous, but delightfully preposterous in my mind.”
The challenge of performance
Pasek elaborated on the creative process behind the song. “Our job was to try to write something that is as difficult to sing as possible. It really should trip the tongue and be something really, really hard to do in one take. That works to our advantage in terms of the plot because the question is, can this character pull it off? And for several episodes, he can’t. It gives us something to really root for over the course of the season.”
The exclusive EGOT club
Joining the ranks of legends
With their Emmy win, Pasek and Paul have become the 20th and 21st members of the elusive EGOT club. This group includes some of the most celebrated names in entertainment, such as Whoopi Goldberg, Viola Davis, Jennifer Hudson, and John Legend. Each member has made significant contributions to their respective fields, and Pasek and Paul’s inclusion is a testament to their extraordinary talent and dedication.
Reflections for enthusiasts
Cinema and TV series aficionados
For those who cherish the magic of cinema and TV series, Pasek and Paul’s journey is a reminder of the power of storytelling through music. Their work on La La Land and Only Murders in the Building showcases how a well-crafted song can elevate a narrative, adding depth and emotion to the visual experience. If you haven’t yet explored these works, now is the perfect time to dive in and appreciate the artistry behind them.
Music lovers’ delight
Music enthusiasts will find much to admire in Pasek and Paul’s compositions. Their ability to blend intricate melodies with poignant lyrics creates an immersive listening experience. Whether it’s the uplifting tunes of Dear Evan Hansen or the playful complexity of Which of the Pickwick Triplets Did It?, their music resonates on a profound level. For a deeper dive into their discography, check out their albums and songs on Music Beep.
A legacy in the making
Pasek and Paul’s induction into the EGOT club is not just a personal milestone but a significant moment in the world of entertainment. Their innovative approach to songwriting and their ability to connect with audiences across different mediums have set a new standard for excellence. As they continue to create and inspire, their legacy will undoubtedly grow, leaving an indelible mark on the arts.
For more insights and updates on their work, keep an eye on their upcoming projects and performances. The journey of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul is far from over, and the world eagerly awaits their next masterpiece.