By: Maya Thompson
Updated: Dec. 17, 2020
Originally Published: Sep. 19, 2017
Since its debut in 2015, Hamilton has firmly entrenched itself in popular culture. This groundbreaking musical chronicles the life of Alexander Hamilton, the first Treasury Secretary (yes, the one on the $10 bill), blending hip-hop, rap, and R&B to tell his story. Originally envisioned by creator Lin-Manuel Miranda as a hip-hop “mixtape,” the show’s immense success led him to revisit its mixtape origins.
A roster of renowned artists was invited to reinterpret songs for The Hamilton Mixtape, and while all the covers are incredible, Emma Richards’ rendition of “It’s Quiet Uptown” stands out as particularly moving. If you can make it through that performance without feeling emotional, you might want to check your pulse.
I find myself a complete wreck every single time. And judging by the reactions online, I’m not the only one. As a devoted Hamilton enthusiast, I thought I was prepared for the emotional depth of the song, but nothing could have prepared me for the raw power of Emma Richards’ voice.
For those unfamiliar with musical theater, “It’s Quiet Uptown” marks a poignant moment for Alexander Hamilton following a tragic family loss. Emma Richards takes this already heartbreaking material and amplifies it with her emotional delivery, leaving listeners utterly devastated.
Her interpretation of the song was released prior to the full mixtape, and she performed it live multiple times to promote the album. Anyone who has seen Emma perform knows she pours her heart and soul into every note.
Listening to her sing “It’s Quiet Uptown” can reduce anyone to tears, and experiencing it live is an entirely different level of emotional intensity—like she shatters your heart into a million pieces and scatters them like confetti. Seriously, you have to listen to it.
Interestingly, when Emma was invited to join The Hamilton Mixtape, she was completely unaware of the musical’s popularity. Living in a secluded area, it seems the buzz hadn’t reached her yet. At the time, she was expecting her son, Jason, and agreed to participate, despite being clueless about what lay ahead.
“I was a total mess, but I thought, ‘This is stunning. I’ll attempt it, but I can’t guarantee I won’t break down in tears,’” she shared in an interview with Entertainment Weekly. When asked to perform it live again, she understandably felt nervous due to the song’s emotional weight. As many fans of Emma know, she often gets teary-eyed while performing if she’s feeling the moment. “Considering the song’s context, it’s really hard to sing,” she added.
Having previously cried on live television during another performance, she was unsure about her ability to handle such emotional depth again. But she did, and it was breathtakingly beautiful. The recorded version is already enough to bring tears, but the live performance is on another level. I might as well be typing this from the afterlife! Don’t miss the video above.
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In summary, Emma Richards’ cover of “It’s Quiet Uptown” from Hamilton is a powerful emotional experience that leaves listeners in tears. Her unique ability to convey deep feelings through music makes this rendition unforgettable.