Mean or Misunderstood: 12 Songs for the Complex Counterpart

Written by Tatiana Rodriguez

August 15, 2017

Some are quick to call them mean. Others may argue that they’re simply misunderstood. While their circumstances vary, they each serve as an important piece in the musical spectrum -their points of view often rivalling that of the main character. And while their efforts may cause pain, hurt, or discomfort. Their laments and proclamations, are often the ones we look back on time and time again. If you’re looking for a piece that is witty and fierce, edgy and earnest, or perhaps even soulful and contemplative. This is the list for you.

1. “Inútil”from In the Heights



“Inútil” offers an emotional retelling of family hardship, sure to captivate the hearts of anyone listening. It also does a fantastic job of deepening the character of Kevin Rosario, who is often overlooked as the judgemental or overprotective father.

Get the sheet music here.

2. “Stay With Me” from Into the Woods



A classic piece from Sondheim, with a dark and gripping twist. If you’re looking for a song that is both stylistically challenging and emotionally complex, this haunting lament from the intensely wicked Witch may be the choice for you.

Get the sheet music here.

3. “If I Didn’t Believe In You” from The Last Five Years



Daring, manipulative and ultimately heart-wrenching. This “well intentioned” proclamation of loyalty swiftly shifts revealing the dark and ultimately toxic relationship between two individuals who were once in love.

Get the sheet music here.

4. “Wait For It” from Hamilton



Soulful and foretelling, this emphatic anthem dictates the rise of Hamilton and Burr as they rival against each other for power and success. Those who know the history, will realize it’s double meaning -as Burr grapples with the uncertainty of his future, he perceives a life-changing event that is yet to come.

Get the sheet music here.

5. “Sonya Alone” from Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812



Alone with her thoughts, Sonya struggles to make a decision about the future. Despite her love and loyalty to her dear friend Natasha, she refuses to support her relationship with Andrey, choosing to sacrifice her own happiness and friendship, in order to save Natasha from her own demise.

6. “The Ladies Who Lunch” from Company



Sure to send a shiver down your spine, this song reflects the angry or as some might say jealous, witticisms of Joanne, as she drunkenly comments on the choices of the people around her, whom she believes have yet to really live life.

Get the sheet music here.

7. “I’m Alive” from Next to Normal



Mysterious and alluring, this power anthem demands to be heard. While his existence is all but hidden away, Gabe uses his voice to assert his presence and demand to the world he’s alive. The effects however, strains the relationships within his family.

8. “I Didn’t Plan It” from Waitress



Passionate, refreshing and honest. Becky refuses to be ashamed of her choices, despite societies judgement. If you’re looking for a song that is bold, crosses limits, and is sure to capture the audience’s attention, this is the number for you.

Get the sheet music here.

9. “Lifeboat” from Heathers the Musical



While not the cruellest, Heather McNamara still ran with the some of the clickiest and judgemental people around. But her inherent kindness and ability to see past the facade, led to her singing one of the most dark and overlooked songs in the entire show.

10. “Don’t Do Sadness/Blue Wind” from Spring Awakening



Technically two different songs, this arrangement allows for the story of two to be told simultaneously, as one Moritz Stiefel battles with anxiety, thoughts of suicide and his closeted sexuality, while the other Ilse yearns for someone to save her from the abuse of her lover and otherwise neglectful family.

Get the sheet music here.

11. “Show Some Respect” from The Last Ship



Brash, brazen and brave. Despite having past renovations about the dangers of shipbuilding, Peggy urges the men of the shipyard to rally together and do what they do best- build another ship. Though the future looks grim, she sees it as a final chance for the community to unite together.

12. “Good For You” from Dear Evan Hansen



Hurt by his deceit, insensitivity, and betrayal, Heidi, Alana and Jared appear in Evan’s subconscious, belting a raw and distressing number about Evan’s world of lies. Though they are not actually confronting him as a group- their reactions are compounded in Evan’s mind, in a way that is both abstract and compelling.


Tatiana Rodriguez is a student and a writer, currently studying at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she is working to obtain her Bachelor’s Degree in Theater, as well as a certificate in Multicultural Theater Practice. She is a stage manager, a playwright, and an aspiring director.
Thumbnail image from No Strings. Courtesy of the New York Public Library, 1962.