[Yip1982]

I own both the 1993 and 1994 revival recordings of this musical, and one thing bugs me about the end of the Soliloquy as Michael Hayden sings it. It concerns the way he hits the word "take" in the last line "I'll go out and make it or steal it or take it or die!" I have heard Gordon MacRae's version, and MacRae really gives that high climactic note all he's got, nailing it like nobody's business. In contrast, Michael Hayden crescends the note. Could it be a part of the production, or perhaps a flaw in Hayden's delivery of that section?

[Monsieur D'Arque]

Hayden's claim to fame is that he plays Billy as an imperfect character, voice and all, rather than the stalwart baritone he's famous as. Hence, the vocal imperfections and lack of a trained or even a constant sound is a character choice to show his confusion, agression and changing moods.

[Yip1982]

Thank you for sharing this with me. I'm willing to let this wart pass. Besides, Hayden gives a more humane portrayal of Billy than most R&H fans give him credit for.