Rachel was happy to be able to sing Elphaba’s part in this. She was with one of the Wicked touring companies as Glinda. On her IG account there’s a video of her in that role. (She has been in a number of shows on Broadway. ) Geoff imagined this as a concert style version of Wicked, although he used the same backdrop as the touring company shows. Layne used the pop sound because Glinda (starting with the Wizard of Oz movie) has always been associated with bubbles. Wonderful may have been left out of the movie because of the very satirical lyrics. Geoff included the least controversial verse to add. (There’s a very good version of this song on RUclips starring Joel Grey) Some songs weren’t ’left out’ of the movie. Most people don’t realize it, but the movie was only part one. It included parts of the musical only up to intermission. I believe part two is in the works. One fun bit in this was the sharp look that Geoff gave Cesar when he sang ‘kill the witch’. In their Little Mermaid medley Geoff played Ursula, the sea witch. But other looks between them were more heartfelt, such as the looks exchanged while singing For Good.
Thanks for your reaction! Voice Play recently released their cover of "Stand By Me" and it is stunning! I don't know what happened but it has been overlooked and not reacted to by very many reactors (perhaps it is overlooked because it is filmed in the mall where most of their minis/shorts are filmed but at least one reactor has stated they never received a notification). We patrons and super fans of Voice Play and your channel would love to see you react to that one.
Yes, Geoff did this arrangement. It took him years to get it polished to his satisfaction. Layne is not extremely tall, he's 6'1", but he likes to wear his hair sticking up several inches and he's standing next to Eli who I believe is about 5'6". Eli often stands on a box while filming, but I think they didn't use it for this video. Rachel and Emoni are both very adept at blending their voices and practiced at doing so with Voiceplay. They've both done lots of collabs with VP and Emoni was on the Sing Off tour with VP for months. If you look you can find video on youtube of Rachel performing live with the guys in the Phillipines - they sound just as tight live. (though the sound quality isn't great on the recording) As others have mentioned - Rachel was part of the Broadway touring company of Wicked. So yes, her voice is well suited to it! Emoni is pronounced eh-mah-nee. It may help to think of it as an alternate spelling of Imani. The lights for this, which do so much to set the scene, were designed and programmed by Eli I believe. Also, both Eli and Cesar can sing smoothly pretty much anything in baritone or tenor. Cesar tends to lean into a more breathy tone, while Eli tends to lean into a more gritty one in recent years, but both guys can do either one if it's called for. If you want to hear Eli doing some smooth runs check out their cover of Tennessee Whiskey. Thanks for the enjoyable analysis!
I've been so excited knowing this medley was coming around on your channel soon! It's my favorite VoicePlay medley. I assume some of the missing songs will show up in Part 2 of the Wicked movie next year. If your interested, Rachel Potter has revamped her RUclips channel and released some new music in the past month like Pulled from The Addams Family musical. The production quality of the music video is fantastic. She is coming out with a new Broadway album, too.
The movie was just part one. Next year at this time will be part 2. They filmed them at the same time. But that is when you will get songs missing from here. Like For Good, which will destroy me lol. Defying Gravity is the song that leads to the intermission on Broadway.
one of the most ironic things about the six people singing this: only Rachel and Cesar have backgrounds in musical theater. Geoff, Layne, and Eli have backgrounds in chorus and small vocal ensembles (like barbershop) from high school, but they didn't get the theater kids attribute until Tony was with them (2011-2016). a second note: their cover of "Friends on the Other Side" and their "Jingle Bell Rock" a la Mean Girls have FOUR generations of VP baritones involved: Layne (original baritone), Tony (as mentioned 2011-2016), J. None (2018- spring 2021), and Cesar (2021- present). Layne, J, and Cesar are in both videos, Tony is directing both. you may want to, if time permits, check out another reaction channel: David K Reacts. This medley was his introduction to VoicePlay, and his first channel video. He also did a more in-depth analysis as his second channelversary video. as a warning, both videos are over half an hour in length, but he can provide you with insight as someone familiar with Wicked.
I think you could argue that the shows the guys have done at the theme parks count as musical theater. Some were just singing but most of them seem to have involved full costumes, characters, and choreography as well. I do come from a musical theater background and I don't see any difference there. Though yes, their training in school was not theatrical.
Spoilers: Eli is portraying the character of Fiyero, Elpheba's (Rachel) love interest. That's why Rachel is looking at him so intently while he's singing, because she loves him. Fun Fact: Rachel got laryngitis just before the filming of this video so here she couldn't even talk. I think that just shows how great her physicality is to still portray so much emotion.
I really love your intelligent insights on VP videos! You do your homework and don't give any BS!! Thank you for breaking everything down so cleanly!❤😊
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Been waiting for this. Excellent addition to my enjoyment of this medley. If you want to see more of Rachel, you've got to journey into the Voiceplay archives to some of their early Disney medleys. In particular, Moana and The Little Mermaid. You won't be disappointed.
Great timing! Thanks for your reaction and analysis. This one apparently took Geoff a couple of years to arrange before he was pleased with it. I always keep a watch for your videos on VoicePlay or Geoff's solo work. Layne is a half inch over six feet tall, but then his hair style makes him look even taller.
Rachel, as Elphaba, is looking at Eli, as Fiero, because she’s wanting him but doesn’t feel like she stands a chance against Glinda. It’s a longing for him she thinks will be unreciprocated.
Once again a brilliant analysis!! The sudden ending is definitely a surprise! I love that Cesar got a bit more chance to show his voice here… and the look between him and Geoff was just so cute… Rachel’s defying gravity is perfect, and Emoni shows the versatility of her voice in different songs. Everyone got a moment to shine in this one!!
Speaking of musicals, I hope you eventually get to Voiceplay's If I Were a Rich Man/ Girl from Fiddler On the Roof. It's very different. Also, Voiceplay's Phantom of the Opera from 9 YEARS AGO! For me, Layne steals the show on that one, along with Jeff's short hair.
Fantastic reaction. Rachel is pretty much an honorary member of VoicePlay, she's sung with them so much. I have never seen the Wicked musical, and have yet to see the movie. However, I read the book decades before it became a musical. A very interesting story, as are the rest of the books in the series. I love this medley, though the Spotify version has cuts in the wrong places, it wasn't edited that well, which is highly unusual for VoicePlay. 🧡
Songs are "missing" because Wicked has been divided into two films: Act One is the film just released, and Act Two will be released in 2025. TheatreWorld Backdrops is the company from which they rented the iconic Wicked clock. They put their company name on all their backdrops. often in conspicuous places like this one. Geoff worked on this arrangement, on and off, for several years. Interesting facts: Rachel had laryngitis on the day of the video shoot. She portrayed Galinda/Glinda in the 2nd US national tour. She has a album of Broadway songs coming out in Spring 2025, including "Defying Gravity."
Another outstanding one is Superfruit with Mitch and Scott of Defying Gravity; also a bit of a medley, I believe, but I didn't know all of the Wicked music prior to this, so I could be wrong.
Yes! Superfruit singing Defying Gravity is a treat. It's just that single song, not a medley. The juxtaposition of the completely amateur make-up/wig with the incredible singing is fun! Pentatonix also sang What is this Feeling a number of years ago for the 15th anniversary of the Wicked stage play. I think that video is only available on FB, not on YT, except as part of other reactors' videos. They are bringing that one back and performing it in the set of their current Christmas Tour in honor of the movie release since they are all pretty big musical theater fans, and Wicked is among the favorites. Scott and Mark were at the LA premier for the movie release.
I think they just did defying gravity in that one. Pentatonix performed what is this feeling for the 20th anneversiry though and are performing it on tour right now
Emoni was on the same season of "The Sing Off" as Voice Play and Home Free. The group she was with, Ten, was actually my favorite that season. As usual, this was an excellent reaction and analysis!
I LOVE everything VoicePlay has done together with Rachel Potter - except the two you've reacted to... (i.e. this one and Classical Chaos). So for medleys, I'll suggest "The Greatest Showman" and "The Little Mermaid". In addition, I think that "If I were a Rich Man/ Girl" featuring Ashley Diane (who you saw in "We don't Talk about Bruno") is amazing! And then there are... all the others!😂 Thank you for your r&a, always so interesting!
Yes, to this commentary! I am not a Disney or musical theater fan, so often VoicePlay is my introduction to something. And it helps me appreciate the original ability more. I love the way they weave in all of the often very different songs into an enjoyable medley.
There are 2 songs that were released right after VoicePlay announced that Earl had left the group - The Heart of Life, and The Bones. They are widely considered to be the closest thing to a statement about his departure that they'll ever do. Emoni collaborated with them (beautifully) on The Bones. I don't remember any others she's done with them.
She did The Bones, I Love Me, Can't Believe It, and I don't think there's a video for it but she's on their album Collide singing Play That Funky Music. She also toured with VP for months during the first sing off tour, I believe because Honey wasn't available. She has also worked with Layne and Tony on stuff for Pattycake.
This was sooo good! It was my first time watching this outstanding medley and being able to follow your genuine enjoyment and fascinating explanations greatly enhanced my whole experience; thank you Sir! I found myself weirdly fixated on some very specific frames of this video, such as Geoff’s reaction when the ‘primarily smooth’ Cesar first shouts that unexpectedly scaring “Kill the witch!” and how massively tall Layne appears when standing beside our playful rockstar Eli😁
When I first heard this medley I'd never seen the stage play (or the movie, now), so many of these songs were completely new to me! It was also my first time hearing Emoni sing, and while overall I prefer Rachel's voice, Emoni's is definitely a powerful voice for a song when you need it! And of course everyone from VoicePlay does their usual marvelous job - that look Geoff gives Cesar when he yells, "Kill the witch" is priceless! Now that you've heard the VP Wicked medley, I think it's time for you to watch the Superfruit version of "Defying Gravity". Not only does Mitch absolutely kill it, but Scott does a pretty amazing job for someone considered a baritone in his falsetto to sing Glinda's part. And Mitch's last note is literally something you won't hear in the stage play - since the singers there have to be able to sing 6-8 shows a week for weeks at a time, they can't afford to risk their voice for a single note, but Mitch is doing a one-off and he goes for it!
Never mind the music analysis, the editing of your videos is tight as hell. Simple. Clean. Smooth. Do you edit these yourself? Of course love the analysis as well, I often feel like a caveman when trying to talk about music :)
Thank you! Yeah I do, I have 0 editing experience - well, only through Sir Hairless I guess 📽 I really do need to edit them (which takes a long time but is necessary); otherwise my videos would be twice the length
Thank you for this reaction, now I have new things to listen for. I always get teary-eyed when they sing For Good. (The song that you didn’t recognize. I believe it’s in the part two of the movie as it would seem logical that that would be at the end ). I think it’s a combination of the song itself and the way they all turned to one another as they’re singing. I have not seen the film nor the musical, unless you count the one with Judy Garland😊. When they do the bubbles, it’s Emoni singing channeling the role of Glinda. In the OG movie, she always floats down in a bubble. 🤔 I love the interplay between Cesar and Geoff during the Kill the Witch. In their Little Mermaid Medley (Rachel is Ariel) Geoff is playing Ursula the sea witch, and he seems to take Cesar’s Kill the Witch pretty personally.🤣 Rachel appeared in the national tour version of Wicked some years back playing Glinda, so it’s kind of nice that she got to play Elphaba as well. PattyCake Productions recently released Into the Storm, an original song chronicling the evolution of Elphaba through various productions. The featured singer is Jessica Vosk who played her in on Broadway about 10 years ago. Various renditions of her appear in the production, and Kathy Castellucci, Geoff’s wife, is portraying the Margaret Hamilton role. That makes me especially happy. You might give it a look. Jessica’s voice is spectacular and it was quite a coup for Layne and Tony to be able to have her come in.
You might want to listen to Voiceplay's Moana medley soonish. It has Rachael in the line up as Earl. It has fewer layers and less production on the voices and you can hear the quality of the voices come through. Looking forward to you reacting to their Little Mermaid medley with Rachael in it too. For a Christmas reaction, please look at Geoff's Blue Christmas from last year.
I have not seen the theatre production, nor have I seen the movie yet, but plan to see it when it’s available for streaming. My husband is not into musicals so that’s the reason for waiting. I have only heard the song “Defying Gravity”, which I love. This was quite lengthy, but Voice Play, along with Rachel and Emoni, did a fabulous medley! I would expect nothing less.I agree that this must have taken quite awhile to arrange.
Rachel has done this on Broadway as Glinda and wanted to do Elphaba. I'm always pleased when you are doing VP or Geoff videos. If you haven't reacted to VoicePlay's Stand By Me with Mykal (original member from high school and a bit after before he went to Broadway, it is exceptionally lovely. They all look like there's a lotta love there. Cesar was the only one Mykal didn't know but they had a blast in Be Prepared and really hit it off.
I think Layne looks so tall (which he is) because Eli is only about 5'4". Enjoyed your reaction as always!! Also recommending their version of Stand By Me.
I love this medley! I believe Geoff had it in mind for several years, waiting for the way to make it sound just like he envisioned it. Great job! 🔥 Just fyi, Rachel has more than 10 collabs with VP, all great!
Been a while, haven't been a fan of latest videos (of course not cause of you but because my null interest in certain artists), but hey I'm back! A always I love your analysis, you know too much, it is almost not fair, I may say hahaha. In this one my favorite part was "who's to say I've been changed for the better", is it a triple harmony? Looks like one but I am poop at this haha. Hugs! Lupe.-
Some of the songs are from Act 2 of the musical so they will be in part 2 of the movie. Speaking of the movie… WOW, I thought it was a masterpeice! There is a strong bubble theme associated with the musical and included in the movie. In the opening Ariana comes in a bubble and has bubbles on her dress and crown. It’s the same in the musical. Layne is pretty tall (about as tall as you) but he looks taller when he stands next to Eli. Rachel is great with VoicePlay. It’s really too bad she couldn’t join them on the Sing Off! Oh! and Dancing Through Life is my favorite song!
Wicked was totally new to me when I heard this and I was instantly a fan of the medley. I believe it took Geoff a couple of years to perfect the arrangement and I don't think it could be improved upon. Ps I heard one reactor say that Rachel is so intent on Eli is because in the show his character sweeps her off her feet? I could be telling you a lot of nonsense lol
I have to say that they never disappoint. I have never seen the movie, but I know some songs. My favorite song is - Defying Gravity, but I only have had a small amount of exposure to the music. I went to see The Phantom of the Opera with my mom. What an incredible set! I loved it! ❤R/A🎼
Wow I would love to see phantom live. When we where at musical con in Oct they had the latest Westend Christine there she sang think of me and I had chills it was so amazing.
@ It was such an incredible thing to see it live. It's probably one of my favorites, along with Westside Story, Camelot, and the ones we did in high school, like Man of LaManca, Fiddler on the Roof, Funny Girl, and Les Miserables, to name a few.
Thank you, each one of your videos are very valuable. I would like to recommended you the cover of Defying Gravity that Morisette Amon did some years ago, her voice is amazing. I don't know how to give you a link, because I'm with the phone😅, but I think is very easy to find
“For good”, my favorite, is a beautiful and touching song that must be in part two of the movie - it’s not one that you would forget. For other musicals- have you ever seen Hamilton? I would love to hear your reaction to Lin-Manuel Miranda‘s creation. So different from other musicals. Others have done reactions as well and with pauses seem to get past the copyright requirements.
This is the one song of Voiceplay that ruined Wicked for me. I had heard and LOVED this medley so much before I finally saw the stage show earlier this year and in all honesty I far preferred Voiceplay’s cover of all the songs than the originals. The originals all sounded off to me because I was so used to VP’s medley. 😂 I feel bad for Jonathan Bailey cause as amazing as he is I’m not sure he’ll live up to Eli’s fiero 😂😂
Actually, Jonathan Bailey is an absolutely outstanding Fiyero! His voice is fantastic and his dancing is even better! I am an Eli fan, but, in my opinion, this isn’t Eli’s best. It isn’t Cesar’s best either. Maybe it is the arrangement, which is more jazzy than the musical and doesn’t really suit the show. Only Rachel’s and Geoff’s numbers stay true to the show.
You knew it was coming from your harassing friend! React to eva cassidy, im dying to see your reaction over anyone else! Lol i do like voiceplay I think best out of acapella groups that isn't pentatonix! They're to me on a different level. But I like voiceplays dramatics. 😂
Hello, l saw your reaction to jeff satur, l think he has improved more than before vocally, he is very talented, he reacts more to his live music, he sounds more spectacular and makes high notes, can you te lo we what you thrink his vocal range is.
I've only heard him one time - that was in my reaction! So I can't say at all. But I'd imagine it's around 3.5-4 octaves, unless he can go surprisingly low as well
@@SirHairless He can do incredible things with that voice, l have always wanted to know if he has tenor,baritone,bass ect. l left you in a comment links to the concerts of his tour this year, so you can learn more about his voice thank you.
Wait ...... "I soar it" , you soar what ? You ... umm , sawyered it ? You did what ? ... " I sawyer it " ???? Hold on , what did you do ? You started this reaction by saying , "I sower it"...... Huh ? Did you mean the word "saw"? Sawwwwww ... Sawwwwww . Sorry Sir , but I don't see an "R" in that word. Saw ... Saw ... Saw , nope , no "R". 😅😁🙃🙄😵💫🤩😀😆🤣😜🥴🤐
@SirHairless Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha ..... Oh my goodness ..lol. You gave me a good laugh !!! American, are you sure that I am American? There are certain Americans that say "I soar it" also. They also say "I warshed my clothes" .. warshed ???? he he he he 😁
@SirHairless you were correct. I am 100% American. I just didn't want to give you your flowers. Sorry , for poking fun at you. I know you are a very intelligent person, I was just messing around. I do live near Niagara Falls. ( home of the famous hot chicken wings )
If you fancy another medley from VoicePlay, my previous reaction was one (and it was a very fun one!) ruclips.net/video/4d-WIWj8EEU/видео.html
Rachel was happy to be able to sing Elphaba’s part in this. She was with one of the Wicked touring companies as Glinda. On her IG account there’s a video of her in that role. (She has been in a number of shows on Broadway. )
Geoff imagined this as a concert style version of Wicked, although he used the same backdrop as the touring company shows.
Layne used the pop sound because Glinda (starting with the Wizard of Oz movie) has always been associated with bubbles.
Wonderful may have been left out of the movie because of the very satirical lyrics. Geoff included the least controversial verse to add. (There’s a very good version of this song on RUclips starring Joel Grey)
Some songs weren’t ’left out’ of the movie. Most people don’t realize it, but the movie was only part one. It included parts of the musical only up to intermission. I believe part two is in the works.
One fun bit in this was the sharp look that Geoff gave Cesar when he sang ‘kill the witch’. In their Little Mermaid medley Geoff played Ursula, the sea witch.
But other looks between them were more heartfelt, such as the looks exchanged while singing For Good.
Your analyses never fail to blow me away. Your ear...good grief. Thank you, again.
❤
You REALLY need to check out their little mermaid medley. Rachel Potter is in that one too.
Thanks for your reaction! Voice Play recently released their cover of "Stand By Me" and it is stunning! I don't know what happened but it has been overlooked and not reacted to by very many reactors (perhaps it is overlooked because it is filmed in the mall where most of their minis/shorts are filmed but at least one reactor has stated they never received a notification). We patrons and super fans of Voice Play and your channel would love to see you react to that one.
The movie was only Act 1 of the musical, so there are several songs you would not have heard yet. Part 2 of the movie comes out next year!
Came here to say this
I love Caesar’s voice. I don’t think he gets enough recognition. He also Brings a lot to the theatrical portions of Voice Plays videos.
Yes, Geoff did this arrangement. It took him years to get it polished to his satisfaction.
Layne is not extremely tall, he's 6'1", but he likes to wear his hair sticking up several inches and he's standing next to Eli who I believe is about 5'6". Eli often stands on a box while filming, but I think they didn't use it for this video.
Rachel and Emoni are both very adept at blending their voices and practiced at doing so with Voiceplay. They've both done lots of collabs with VP and Emoni was on the Sing Off tour with VP for months. If you look you can find video on youtube of Rachel performing live with the guys in the Phillipines - they sound just as tight live. (though the sound quality isn't great on the recording)
As others have mentioned - Rachel was part of the Broadway touring company of Wicked. So yes, her voice is well suited to it!
Emoni is pronounced eh-mah-nee. It may help to think of it as an alternate spelling of Imani.
The lights for this, which do so much to set the scene, were designed and programmed by Eli I believe.
Also, both Eli and Cesar can sing smoothly pretty much anything in baritone or tenor. Cesar tends to lean into a more breathy tone, while Eli tends to lean into a more gritty one in recent years, but both guys can do either one if it's called for. If you want to hear Eli doing some smooth runs check out their cover of Tennessee Whiskey.
Thanks for the enjoyable analysis!
I've been so excited knowing this medley was coming around on your channel soon! It's my favorite VoicePlay medley. I assume some of the missing songs will show up in Part 2 of the Wicked movie next year. If your interested, Rachel Potter has revamped her RUclips channel and released some new music in the past month like Pulled from The Addams Family musical. The production quality of the music video is fantastic. She is coming out with a new Broadway album, too.
The movie was just part one. Next year at this time will be part 2. They filmed them at the same time. But that is when you will get songs missing from here. Like For Good, which will destroy me lol. Defying Gravity is the song that leads to the intermission on Broadway.
one of the most ironic things about the six people singing this: only Rachel and Cesar have backgrounds in musical theater.
Geoff, Layne, and Eli have backgrounds in chorus and small vocal ensembles (like barbershop) from high school, but they didn't get the theater kids attribute until Tony was with them (2011-2016).
a second note: their cover of "Friends on the Other Side" and their "Jingle Bell Rock" a la Mean Girls have FOUR generations of VP baritones involved: Layne (original baritone), Tony (as mentioned 2011-2016), J. None (2018- spring 2021), and Cesar (2021- present).
Layne, J, and Cesar are in both videos, Tony is directing both.
you may want to, if time permits, check out another reaction channel: David K Reacts.
This medley was his introduction to VoicePlay, and his first channel video.
He also did a more in-depth analysis as his second channelversary video.
as a warning, both videos are over half an hour in length, but he can provide you with insight as someone familiar with Wicked.
I wasn’t in Jingle Bell Rock that I recall… but all 4 baritones were involved with Hellfire.
I think you could argue that the shows the guys have done at the theme parks count as musical theater. Some were just singing but most of them seem to have involved full costumes, characters, and choreography as well. I do come from a musical theater background and I don't see any difference there. Though yes, their training in school was not theatrical.
My bad - I did mean Hellfire
Spoilers:
Eli is portraying the character of Fiyero, Elpheba's (Rachel) love interest. That's why Rachel is looking at him so intently while he's singing, because she loves him.
Fun Fact:
Rachel got laryngitis just before the filming of this video so here she couldn't even talk. I think that just shows how great her physicality is to still portray so much emotion.
I really love your intelligent insights on VP videos! You do your homework and don't give any BS!! Thank you for breaking everything down so cleanly!❤😊
Appreciate it 🙏
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Been waiting for this. Excellent addition to my enjoyment of this medley. If you want to see more of Rachel, you've got to journey into the Voiceplay archives to some of their early Disney medleys. In particular, Moana and The Little Mermaid. You won't be disappointed.
Great timing! Thanks for your reaction and analysis. This one apparently took Geoff a couple of years to arrange before he was pleased with it. I always keep a watch for your videos on VoicePlay or Geoff's solo work. Layne is a half inch over six feet tall, but then his hair style makes him look even taller.
Plus Layne is standing next to Eli who is 5' 5" so it's a big contrast.
Rachel, as Elphaba, is looking at Eli, as Fiero, because she’s wanting him but doesn’t feel like she stands a chance against Glinda. It’s a longing for him she thinks will be unreciprocated.
Fiyero
Once again a brilliant analysis!! The sudden ending is definitely a surprise! I love that Cesar got a bit more chance to show his voice here… and the look between him and Geoff was just so cute… Rachel’s defying gravity is perfect, and Emoni shows the versatility of her voice in different songs. Everyone got a moment to shine in this one!!
Speaking of musicals, I hope you eventually get to Voiceplay's If I Were a Rich Man/ Girl from Fiddler On the Roof. It's very different. Also, Voiceplay's Phantom of the Opera from 9 YEARS AGO! For me, Layne steals the show on that one, along with Jeff's short hair.
*Geoff's short hair ( not sure why it wouldn't let me fix it)
And If I Were a Rich Man/Girl is also my favorite song featuring Ashley Diane.
@@Bamboozled808 I also love that we got to hear Tony shine in Opera. He has a gorgeous voice and we didn’t get to hear it showcase very often.
Tony is the star of Phantom for me, it suits his voice so well! But yes, both of those are great examples of their musical theater songs.
If you want a different Wicked experience you should check out Superfruit doing "Defying Gravity", it's brilliant and hilarious as only they can do.
You are right, we need sir hairless reacting to superfruit!
Yes yes! I have requested the Superfruit interpretation as well. Mitch is amazing!
Fantastic reaction. Rachel is pretty much an honorary member of VoicePlay, she's sung with them so much. I have never seen the Wicked musical, and have yet to see the movie. However, I read the book decades before it became a musical. A very interesting story, as are the rest of the books in the series. I love this medley, though the Spotify version has cuts in the wrong places, it wasn't edited that well, which is highly unusual for VoicePlay. 🧡
Songs are "missing" because Wicked has been divided into two films: Act One is the film just released, and Act Two will be released in 2025.
TheatreWorld Backdrops is the company from which they rented the iconic Wicked clock. They put their company name on all their backdrops. often in conspicuous places like this one. Geoff worked on this arrangement, on and off, for several years. Interesting facts: Rachel had laryngitis on the day of the video shoot. She portrayed Galinda/Glinda in the 2nd US national tour. She has a album of Broadway songs coming out in Spring 2025, including "Defying Gravity."
In case you didn’t know, Wicked is split into two parts (two movies). Part two comes out next year so you will hear your favorite songs then!!!:)
Another outstanding one is Superfruit with Mitch and Scott of Defying Gravity; also a bit of a medley, I believe, but I didn't know all of the Wicked music prior to this, so I could be wrong.
Yes! Superfruit singing Defying Gravity is a treat. It's just that single song, not a medley. The juxtaposition of the completely amateur make-up/wig with the incredible singing is fun!
Pentatonix also sang What is this Feeling a number of years ago for the 15th anniversary of the Wicked stage play. I think that video is only available on FB, not on YT, except as part of other reactors' videos. They are bringing that one back and performing it in the set of their current Christmas Tour in honor of the movie release since they are all pretty big musical theater fans, and Wicked is among the favorites. Scott and Mark were at the LA premier for the movie release.
I think they just did defying gravity in that one. Pentatonix performed what is this feeling for the 20th anneversiry though and are performing it on tour right now
Thanks, I wasn't sure
Emoni was on the same season of "The Sing Off" as Voice Play and Home Free. The group she was with, Ten, was actually my favorite that season. As usual, this was an excellent reaction and analysis!
I LOVE everything VoicePlay has done together with Rachel Potter - except the two you've reacted to... (i.e. this one and Classical Chaos). So for medleys, I'll suggest "The Greatest Showman" and "The Little Mermaid". In addition, I think that "If I were a Rich Man/ Girl" featuring Ashley Diane (who you saw in "We don't Talk about Bruno") is amazing! And then there are... all the others!😂
Thank you for your r&a, always so interesting!
Yes, to this commentary! I am not a Disney or musical theater fan, so often VoicePlay is my introduction to something. And it helps me appreciate the original ability more. I love the way they weave in all of the often very different songs into an enjoyable medley.
There are 2 songs that were released right after VoicePlay announced that Earl had left the group - The Heart of Life, and The Bones. They are widely considered to be the closest thing to a statement about his departure that they'll ever do. Emoni collaborated with them (beautifully) on The Bones. I don't remember any others she's done with them.
She did I Love Me and also Can’t Believe It which was very cute! ❤
She did The Bones, I Love Me, Can't Believe It, and I don't think there's a video for it but she's on their album Collide singing Play That Funky Music. She also toured with VP for months during the first sing off tour, I believe because Honey wasn't available. She has also worked with Layne and Tony on stuff for Pattycake.
This was sooo good! It was my first time watching this outstanding medley and being able to follow your genuine enjoyment and fascinating explanations greatly enhanced my whole experience; thank you Sir! I found myself weirdly fixated on some very specific frames of this video, such as Geoff’s reaction when the ‘primarily smooth’ Cesar first shouts that unexpectedly scaring “Kill the witch!” and how massively tall Layne appears when standing beside our playful rockstar Eli😁
I am quite pleased you analyzed this one. As you suspected, Geoff spent a very long time working on this arrangement … and it is spectacular.
When I first heard this medley I'd never seen the stage play (or the movie, now), so many of these songs were completely new to me! It was also my first time hearing Emoni sing, and while overall I prefer Rachel's voice, Emoni's is definitely a powerful voice for a song when you need it! And of course everyone from VoicePlay does their usual marvelous job - that look Geoff gives Cesar when he yells, "Kill the witch" is priceless!
Now that you've heard the VP Wicked medley, I think it's time for you to watch the Superfruit version of "Defying Gravity". Not only does Mitch absolutely kill it, but Scott does a pretty amazing job for someone considered a baritone in his falsetto to sing Glinda's part. And Mitch's last note is literally something you won't hear in the stage play - since the singers there have to be able to sing 6-8 shows a week for weeks at a time, they can't afford to risk their voice for a single note, but Mitch is doing a one-off and he goes for it!
Always love your reaction and analysis. Super informative.
🙌 Cheers!
Never mind the music analysis, the editing of your videos is tight as hell. Simple. Clean. Smooth. Do you edit these yourself?
Of course love the analysis as well, I often feel like a caveman when trying to talk about music :)
Thank you! Yeah I do, I have 0 editing experience - well, only through Sir Hairless I guess 📽 I really do need to edit them (which takes a long time but is necessary); otherwise my videos would be twice the length
Great analysis! I always enjoy these!
Thank you! I finally got the time to watch your reaction. 🥰
Layne is about 6 foot 2 and Eli is rather petite for a man so the contrast is quite pronounced
Commenting to help with the algorithm. Thanks for another great video ❤
I've never seen the musical, but this medley made me want to. It's brilliant!
Thank you for this reaction, now I have new things to listen for. I always get teary-eyed when they sing For Good. (The song that you didn’t recognize. I believe it’s in the part two of the movie as it would seem logical that that would be at the end ). I think it’s a combination of the song itself and the way they all turned to one another as they’re singing.
I have not seen the film nor the musical, unless you count the one with Judy Garland😊. When they do the bubbles, it’s Emoni singing channeling the role of Glinda. In the OG movie, she always floats down in a bubble. 🤔
I love the interplay between Cesar and Geoff during the Kill the Witch. In their Little Mermaid Medley (Rachel is Ariel) Geoff is playing Ursula the sea witch, and he seems to take Cesar’s Kill the Witch pretty personally.🤣
Rachel appeared in the national tour version of Wicked some years back playing Glinda, so it’s kind of nice that she got to play Elphaba as well.
PattyCake Productions recently released Into the Storm, an original song chronicling the evolution of Elphaba through various productions. The featured singer is Jessica Vosk who played her in on Broadway about 10 years ago. Various renditions of her appear in the production, and Kathy Castellucci, Geoff’s wife, is portraying the Margaret Hamilton role. That makes me especially happy. You might give it a look. Jessica’s voice is spectacular and it was quite a coup for Layne and Tony to be able to have her come in.
You might want to listen to Voiceplay's Moana medley soonish. It has Rachael in the line up as Earl. It has fewer layers and less production on the voices and you can hear the quality of the voices come through. Looking forward to you reacting to their Little Mermaid medley with Rachael in it too. For a Christmas reaction, please look at Geoff's Blue Christmas from last year.
Thanks for doing this one. I have tickets to see the movie the day after tomorrow and it was a great refresher.
Standing Layne next to Eli makes him look really tall. I believe he is 6’2".
None of the songs in the film were cut out. The film has every single song from the musical. And Part 2 will have all the songs plus two new ones!!!
Yeah the ones in this that weren't in the film must be in Part 2
all voice ranges together in one song, nice
I have not seen the theatre production, nor have I seen the movie yet, but plan to see it when it’s available for streaming. My husband is not into musicals so that’s the reason for waiting. I have only heard the song “Defying Gravity”, which I love. This was quite lengthy, but Voice Play, along with Rachel and Emoni, did a fabulous medley! I would expect nothing less.I agree that this must have taken quite awhile to arrange.
Rachel has done this on Broadway as Glinda and wanted to do Elphaba. I'm always pleased when you are doing VP or Geoff videos. If you haven't reacted to VoicePlay's Stand By Me with Mykal (original member from high school and a bit after before he went to Broadway, it is exceptionally lovely. They all look like there's a lotta love there. Cesar was the only one Mykal didn't know but they had a blast in Be Prepared and really hit it off.
I think Layne looks so tall (which he is) because Eli is only about 5'4". Enjoyed your reaction as always!!
Also recommending their version of Stand By Me.
I love this medley! I believe Geoff had it in mind for several years, waiting for the way to make it sound just like he envisioned it. Great job! 🔥
Just fyi, Rachel has more than 10 collabs with VP, all great!
I'm so glad! My favorite!❤
Ptx is doing what is this feeling on tour right now. There are some decent recordings
Not sure if someone stated, but it took Geoff 7 years to arrange this.
Been a while, haven't been a fan of latest videos (of course not cause of you but because my null interest in certain artists), but hey I'm back!
A always I love your analysis, you know too much, it is almost not fair, I may say hahaha.
In this one my favorite part was "who's to say I've been changed for the better", is it a triple harmony? Looks like one but I am poop at this haha.
Hugs!
Lupe.-
You should hear Superfruit do Wicked. Scott and Mitch are hilarious.
Amazing!!! :)
Wonderful was in the movie, sung by the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum).
Was wondering about this, but thought he did Sentimental Man
ruclips.net/video/48ZNkKHGwME/видео.html
@ You are correct! I was mistaken. Then it should be in Part II.
Some of the songs are from
Act 2 of the musical so they will be in part 2 of the movie. Speaking of the movie… WOW, I thought it was a masterpeice! There is a strong bubble theme associated with the musical and included in the movie. In the opening Ariana comes in a bubble and has bubbles on her dress and crown. It’s the same in the musical. Layne is pretty tall (about as tall as you) but he looks taller when he stands next to Eli. Rachel is great with VoicePlay. It’s really too bad she couldn’t join them on the Sing Off! Oh! and Dancing Through Life is my favorite song!
Im not at all familiar with Wicked but I enjoyed this. Yes Layne is tall 😅.
Layne is 6'1". Eli is 5'5".
...and, as someone else pointed out, Layne's upswept hair makes him appear taller, whereas Eli's shaved head doesn't do the same.
The film is a part 1 so the songs that you didn’t here may be in the second film
Wicked was totally new to me when I heard this and I was instantly a fan of the medley.
I believe it took Geoff a couple of years to perfect the arrangement and I don't think it could be improved upon.
Ps I heard one reactor say that Rachel is so intent on Eli is because in the show his character sweeps her off her feet? I could be telling you a lot of nonsense lol
❤ your analysis
This may be my least favorite VoicePlay number. Having said that, your reaction is (as always) spot on! You have an amazing ear!
You may want to check out Superfruit, “Defying Gravity “
Thanks 😊
Have you ever watched "The Wiz"? Very good retelling of the story in a different environment.
Never seen that!
I have to say that they never disappoint.
I have never seen the movie, but I know some songs. My favorite song is - Defying Gravity, but I only have had a small amount of exposure to the music.
I went to see The Phantom of the Opera with my mom. What an incredible set! I loved it!
❤R/A🎼
Wow I would love to see phantom live. When we where at musical con in Oct they had the latest Westend Christine there she sang think of me and I had chills it was so amazing.
@ It was such an incredible thing to see it live. It's probably one of my favorites, along with Westside Story, Camelot, and the ones we did in high school, like Man of LaManca, Fiddler on the Roof, Funny Girl, and Les Miserables, to name a few.
Phantom is my favorite, I’ve seen it live several times. Miss Saigon is a close 2nd. 😅
Thank you, each one of your videos are very valuable. I would like to recommended you the cover of Defying Gravity that Morisette Amon did some years ago, her voice is amazing. I don't know how to give you a link, because I'm with the phone😅, but I think is very easy to find
“For good”, my favorite, is a beautiful and touching song that must be in part two of the movie - it’s not one that you would forget.
For other musicals- have you ever seen Hamilton? I would love to hear your reaction to Lin-Manuel Miranda‘s creation. So different from other musicals. Others have done reactions as well and with pauses seem to get past the copyright requirements.
VoicePlay covered the song My sShot from Hamilton.
No I've not seen Hamilton yet! I've heard mixed things about it
Layne and Geoff are the tallest and Eli is very short
My bad. It is One Short Day, not a medley.
You need to check out Penatonix Wizard of Ahhhhs
Good arrangement. May I suggest reacting to Voctave's new medley on Wicked? I like it even better than Voiceplay's.
They did a medley? Where can I hear it? I only saw their cover for One Short Day from Wicked.
This is the one song of Voiceplay that ruined Wicked for me. I had heard and LOVED this medley so much before I finally saw the stage show earlier this year and in all honesty I far preferred Voiceplay’s cover of all the songs than the originals. The originals all sounded off to me because I was so used to VP’s medley. 😂 I feel bad for Jonathan Bailey cause as amazing as he is I’m not sure he’ll live up to Eli’s fiero 😂😂
Johnathan Bailey might shock you, he killed it. He gave 200%! 😅
@ good to hear. I’m not sure if I want to see part one now or wait until part two comes out and watch all in one swoop.
Actually, Jonathan Bailey is an absolutely outstanding Fiyero! His voice is fantastic and his dancing is even better! I am an Eli fan, but, in my opinion, this isn’t Eli’s best. It isn’t Cesar’s best either. Maybe it is the arrangement, which is more jazzy than the musical and doesn’t really suit the show. Only Rachel’s and Geoff’s numbers stay true to the show.
Sorry to sound so crabby. I really love both VP and Wicked!
Is Sir Hairless growing a beard? I think it looks good on him.
Thank you! But no, if it grows any more it really doesn't look good... trust me on that one 😅I shaved shortly after this was filmed
You knew it was coming from your harassing friend! React to eva cassidy, im dying to see your reaction over anyone else! Lol i do like voiceplay I think best out of acapella groups that isn't pentatonix! They're to me on a different level. But I like voiceplays dramatics. 😂
Hello, l saw your reaction to jeff satur, l think he has improved more than before vocally, he is very talented, he reacts more to his live music, he sounds more spectacular and makes high notes, can you te lo we what you thrink his vocal range is.
I've only heard him one time - that was in my reaction! So I can't say at all. But I'd imagine it's around 3.5-4 octaves, unless he can go surprisingly low as well
@@SirHairless He can do incredible things with that voice, l have always wanted to know if he has tenor,baritone,bass ect. l left you in a comment links to the concerts of his tour this year, so you can learn more about his voice thank you.
Mama from EXO Please
Wait ...... "I soar it" , you soar what ? You ... umm , sawyered it ? You did what ? ... " I sawyer it " ????
Hold on , what did you do ? You started this reaction by saying , "I sower it"...... Huh ?
Did you mean the word "saw"?
Sawwwwww ...
Sawwwwww .
Sorry Sir , but I don't see an "R" in that word.
Saw ... Saw ... Saw , nope , no "R".
😅😁🙃🙄😵💫🤩😀😆🤣😜🥴🤐
Oh let's not get into British vs American pronunciations 😉
@SirHairless Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha .....
Oh my goodness ..lol. You gave me a good laugh !!!
American, are you sure that I am American?
There are certain Americans that say "I soar it" also. They also say "I warshed my clothes" .. warshed ????
he he he he 😁
@@loveloochay Never sure! I just remember the Niagara Falls border - apologies! 🇨🇦
@SirHairless you were correct. I am 100% American. I just didn't want to give you your flowers. Sorry , for poking fun at you. I know you are a very intelligent person, I was just messing around. I do live near Niagara Falls. ( home of the famous hot chicken wings )
The ending just about ruined the whole arrangement for me.