The Meaning Behind The Song: In the Bedroom Down the Hall (Demo) by Rachel Bay Jones & Jennifer Laur

May 2024 · 3 minute read

When it comes to impactful songs from musicals, “In the Bedroom Down the Hall” from the Broadway hit “Dear Evan Hansen” is one that truly resonates with its listeners. Although this song didn’t make it to the final Broadway production, it still carries a lot of emotional weight. As a DJ and a fan of musicals, I wanted to delve deeper into the meaning behind this beautiful and poignant song.

“In the Bedroom Down the Hall” is a cut song from the original Broadway cast recording of “Dear Evan Hansen.” It portrays the sorrow and introspection experienced by both Heidi Hansen and Cynthia Murphy, who are grappling with their individual roles as parents.

In the song, Cynthia reminisces about a sweater that her child didn’t like and how it still reminds her of him. Heidi recalls buying Ninja Turtle night-lights to protect her child from bad guys and dressing him up like Wolverine for Halloween. These memories convey the love and care these mothers have for their children, despite the challenges they face.

For Cynthia, her grief stems from the loss of her son and wondering if there was more she could have done to prevent it. It’s a heartbreaking reflection on the potential impact parents can have on their children’s lives. Heidi, on the other hand, grapples with the realization that she may not have been as present in her child’s life as she could’ve been. Her sorrow comes from the regret of missed opportunities and the desire to have done more for her child.

The lyrics of the song highlight the lengths these mothers would go to make their children happy. They would do anything to protect and provide for them. However, they question if all their efforts were enough and if they let their children down in any way.

As a listener, I couldn’t help but be moved by the raw emotion conveyed in the voices of Rachel Bay Jones and Jennifer Laura Thompson. Their performances bring out the vulnerability and pain experienced by these characters, making the song all the more powerful.

While this song didn’t make it to the final Broadway production of “Dear Evan Hansen,” it remains a significant piece of the musical’s storytelling. The decision to cut it must have been difficult, given the emotional depth it brings to the characters and the themes of parenthood and self-reflection.

“In the Bedroom Down the Hall” is a song that reminds us of the complexities of parenting and the love parents have for their children. It serves as a reminder to cherish the moments we have with our loved ones and to reassess our own roles in their lives.

Whether you’re a fan of “Dear Evan Hansen” or simply appreciate emotive music, “In the Bedroom Down the Hall” is a song that will resonate with you. Its heartfelt lyrics and powerful performances make it a standout piece from the wider Broadway musical world.

Album title: Dear Evan Hansen (Original Broadway Cast Recording) [Deluxe Album] (2018)

Credits

Produced By: Stacey Mindich

Written By: Benj Pasek & Justin Paul

Primary Artists: Rachel Bay Jones & Jennifer Laura Thompson

Guitar: Matt Beck & Justin Goldner

Drums: Drew McKeon

Mixing: Doug Derryberry

Bass: Dan Asher

Piano: Alex Lacamoire

Release Date: November 17, 2017

Tags

Pop

Soundtrack

Broadway

Musicals

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