Best Lyricist?

[mjohnson2]

Posted: 5/6/14 at 10:24pm

Hello all,
I was just wondering who you guys thought is the best lyricist (not composer) currently working in the theatre that is not part of a writing team (i.e.: Ahrens and Flaherty). There don't seem to be many of them anymore.

Updated On: 5/6/14 at 10:24 PM

[icantbelive]

Posted: 5/8/14 at 2:01am

I'd be surprised if anyone said anything other than Sondheim

[pinoyidol2006]

Posted: 5/8/14 at 10:03am

Sondheim would be my top choice, but I also really enjoy Michael Korie's lyrics in Grey Gardens.

[tazber]

Posted: 5/8/14 at 10:06am

I was just watching GG last night!

I'm always amazed at how seamlessly Korie wove in so many great lines from the movie and still managed to craft an original and layered set of lyrics.

But Korie works with Frankel so I don't think he qualifies for what the OP is asking.

[themysteriousgrowl]

Posted: 5/8/14 at 10:08am

Assuming Mr. S. doesn't fit the criteria of "currently working," for me, it's LaChiusa, no contest.

[tazber]

Posted: 5/8/14 at 10:43am

Tim Minchin for me.

He is second only to Sondheim in my book.

If you only know him from Matilda you should check out his solo work. He is absolutely brilliant.

[JBroadway]

Posted: 5/8/14 at 10:45am

"Assuming Mr. S. doesn't fit the criteria of "currently working,""

Well supposedly he's working on a new musical with David Ives, but we haven't had an update on that in a while.