My Top 5 Showtunes: Lloyd Daniels
Lloyd Daniels found fame on the sixth season of X Factor – which was eventually won by Joe McElderry – and has gone on to star in stage productions of You Won't Succeed on Broadway… and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
He now returns to the stage in new British musical Closets, which runs at the Hope Mill Theatre from 14 to 23 August.
We caught up with Lloyd and asked him: "If you were stranded on a desert island which five showtunes could you not live without?"
1. "For Good" from Wicked
This is the first song I always think of when I think of ‘musical theatre'. There's something special about a duet that is perfectly portrayed and for me this song has the perfect delivery of two friends that have battled and also grown together for the better. It's most definitely one of my favourite moments to watch on stage.
2. "And I Am Telling You" from Dreamgirls
I suppose it's one of the more recent shows to grace the West End and I have not witnessed this song in the flesh, but this is an incredible show tune. I genuinely believe that Amber Riley's performance of this at the Olivier Awards is vocally and emotionally one of the most incredible musical moments I've come across on social media. It's a crazily powerful number and I could listen to it again and again.
3. "When You're Good to Mama" from Chicago
It's funny because it's true. I LOVE this song, it really is the icing on the cake and something to really sing along to whether you're listening to music at home before a night out with a few drinks or really testing your vocal ability. It's a little more difficult for us men to sing a leading ladies song. I'll never get bored of this as it triggers great memories whenever it's played or performed.
4. "That's Me" from Closets
I'm currently rehearsing for this brand new musical and the music in general is very '80s with a modern twist. I love the entire score, but this song really touches me. It's sung by Sam Retford and there's a line which states 'that's me afraid to fly away' which I relate to so much in regards to opening up in many different ways in life.
5. "You Will Be Found" from Dear Evan Hansen
It's not a hard choice exactly, as it's so brilliant! I would love this show to come to the West End and maybe have the chance to actually audition for something like this. The score is incredible and this song when sung by Ben Platt and the rest of the company gives me goosebumps. I really do adore this musical and the message it delivers.
PS. I know I'm only allowed five, but I wouldn't be where I am without the fun of the Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat score – this show, those songs and my memories will live with me forever.
