Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, making it the perfect time to explore one of the most beloved romantic songs ever written: “Come What May”. This iconic ballad has captivated audiences for years, and what makes it truly special is the diverse range of interpretations it has inspired. It’s a song that transcends genres and vocal styles, and today, we’re diving deep into why the Come What May Song resonates with so many, and examining some of its most memorable renditions.
Originally conceived as a secret love anthem between Christian and Satine in “Moulin Rouge!”, “Come What May” makes its poignant appearance early in Act 2 of the musical. The Broadway adaptation, which premiered in July 2019, further cemented the song’s place in musical theatre history. Starring Karen Olivo and Aaron Tveit, both received Olivier Award nominations for their powerful performances, highlighting the song’s emotional core right from the start.
Let’s explore some standout versions of this timeless classic:
Aaron Tveit and Karen Olivo in Moulin Rouge! The Musical
The Broadway cast recording featuring Aaron Tveit and Karen Olivo is a masterclass in vocal chemistry. Tveit’s initial conversational tone beautifully evolves into powerful emotion, particularly when he sings “heart” at 0:42, showcasing his perfect suitability for the song. His defiant yet tender delivery of “Come What May” in the opening verses is captivating. Olivo’s voice is equally compelling, bringing a passionate strength that perfectly complements Tveit’s. The contrasting yet harmonious blend of their voices mirrors the dynamic between Christian and Satine, making this rendition both vocally impressive and emotionally resonant. Their distinct styles merge seamlessly in the harmonies, creating a truly unforgettable performance of the come what may song.
Alfie Boe and Melanie C: An Operatic Pop Crossover
Alfie Boe, known for his operatic style, included “Come What May” on his album, originally recorded with Kerry Ellis. His duet with pop icon Melanie C offers a fascinating stylistic contrast. Boe’s operatic approach brings a different dimension to the song, showcasing his vocal prowess. He isn’t afraid to personalize the song, evident in his vocal runs around 3:10, deviating from the traditional melody. Melanie C, with her pop background and later musical theatre experience, faces a challenge with this vocally demanding song. While her performance is admirable, it lacks the sheer power needed to fully unleash the song’s potential. Some might find her inflection slightly off, and her stage presence a touch distracting, but the pairing is certainly an interesting take on the come what may song.
Glee Version: Darren Criss & Chris Colfer’s Tender Interpretation
Darren Criss and Chris Colfer’s rendition from Glee brings a unique and tender perspective to “Come What May”. This same-sex duet offers a beautiful contrast in vocal registers, thanks to Colfer’s higher tenor. This version emphasizes the vulnerability and intimacy of the song. While Glee’s interpretations can be divisive, their take on the come what may song is undeniably well-executed. It captures the emotional core of the ballad in a gentle and heartfelt manner, proving its versatility across different vocal pairings.
Collabro: A Classical Harmony Focus
Collabro, known for their classical crossover style, deliver a version of “Come What May” that leans heavily into harmonic richness. Their signature layered vocals are beautifully showcased, particularly around 1:45. While the absence of a contrasting female voice (or high tenor) is noticeable, the strength of this version lies in the building layers of harmony as the song progresses. Collabro’s rendition highlights the melodic beauty of the come what may song through their impressive vocal arrangements and blend.
Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor: The Iconic Original
No exploration of “Come What May” is complete without revisiting the original movie version performed by Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor in the 2001 film. Nominated for a Golden Globe, this rendition is iconic. While primarily actors, Kidman and McGregor embody their characters so completely that their vocal performances become secondary to the raw emotion they convey. They may not be technically perfect singers, but their rendition is steeped in character and believable emotion. The way the song builds throughout this version is particularly effective, creating a powerful and lasting impact, unlike some versions that peak prematurely. This original movie version remains a benchmark for the come what may song.
Conclusion: Which Version Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a favorite version of “Come What May” is a delightful challenge, as each interpretation brings something unique to the table. Personally, the Tveit and Olivo version edges out as my favorite due to their vocal brilliance and palpable emotion. However, the original Kidman and McGregor version remains a close second, primarily for its iconic status and raw emotional depth.
Now, we want to hear from you! Which version of the come what may song resonates most with you, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
If you enjoyed this exploration of “Come What May”, you might also like our articles on other musical theatre classics such as Bring Him Home, Tell Me It’s Not True, and Gethsemane. Test your musical theatre knowledge with our Musical Theatre songs quiz too!
