Stephen Schwartz is a renowned composer and lyricist who is best known for his work in musical theater. He gained recognition for his famous scores in Wicked, Godspell, and Pippin.
Schwartz’s career spans decades, with numerous Tony, Grammy, and Academy Award nominations and wins. His musical style blends contemporary pop with traditional Broadway elements.
With hits like Defying Gravity and For Good, Schwartz’s music has made a lasting impact on musical theater. His contributions to Broadway have made him one of the most popular figures in the industry.
About the Song
The song On the Willows from the musical Godspell is a haunting and emotional piece based on Psalm 137. It expresses the sorrow and longing of people who have been separated from their home and God, expressing deep grief and spiritual exile.
In the show, it accompanies the disciples’ quiet, touching goodbyes to Jesus before his arrest, symbolizing a moment of sadness and reflection. The lyrics express the pain of captivity and the struggle to hold onto faith in difficult times.
The song’s gentle melody and solemn tone create a powerful contrast to the more joyful parts of the musical, highlighting themes of loss and hope.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | December 20, 2011 |
| Album | Godspell (New Broadway Cast Recording) (2011) |
| Writers | Stephen Schwartz |
Read Full Lyrics of On the Willows
On the willows, there
We hung up our lyres
For our captors there
Required
Of us songs
And our tormentors, mirth
On the willows, there
We hung up our lyres
For our captors there
Required
Of us songs
And our tormentors, mirth
Saying
Sing us one
Of the songs of Zion
Sing us one
Of the songs of Zion
Sing us one
Of the songs of Zion
But how can we sing?
(How can we sing?)
Sing the Lord’s songs?
(Sing the Lord’s songs?)
In a foreign land?
On the willows, there
We hung up our lyres
Similar Songs Like On the Willows
These songs by Stephen Schwartz share themes of hope, reflection, and community, each with its own unique musical style.
- Day by Day: This gentle, motivating prayer asks for closeness to God every day. Its simple melody and hopeful lyrics made it widely popular beyond the musical.
- All Good Gifts: It celebrates the blessings of life and nature with heartfelt gratitude. Warm harmonies bring comfort and a sense of thankfulness.
- Prepare Ye (The Way of the Lord): Energetic and powerful, this song calls for spiritual renewal and readiness. It sets the tone for the musical’s themes of faith and community.
- Save the People: This song expresses a touching plea for compassion and justice worldwide. Encourages kindness and unity among all people through its hopeful message.
Similar Artists Like Stephen Schwartz
Here are some artists similar to Stephen Schwartz in their primary genres, influence, and importance in musical theatre:
- Alan Menken
Genres: Musical Theatre, Film Score
Top Albums: Beauty and the Beast (1991), Aladdin (1992), The Little Mermaid (1989) - Lin-Manuel Miranda
Genres: Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Pop
Top Albums: Hamilton (2015), In the Heights (2008), The Hamilton Mixtape (2016) - Andrew Lloyd Webber
Genres: Musical Theatre, Classical
Top Albums: The Phantom of the Opera (1986), Evita (1976), Cats (1981) - Jonathan Larson
Genres: Musical Theatre, Rock
Top Albums: Rent (1996), Tick, Tick… Boom! (2001) - Stephen Sondheim
Genres: Musical Theatre
Top Albums: Sweeney Todd (1979), Into the Woods (1987), West Side Story (1957)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Originally Performed On the Willows?
On the Willows was first performed by the cast of Godspell during its Broadway production, with Stephen Schwartz’s music and lyrics.
What Makes On the Willows Stand Out in Godspell?
The song’s emotional weight and somber tone contrast with the more motivating pieces in Godspell, adding depth and complexity to the musical.
Where does On the Willows Appear in Godspell?
It is sung near the end, during the Last Supper scene.
