Kinky Boots is a 2012 musical with music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper and a book by Harvey Fierstein. Based on the film of the same name, the story follows Charlie Price. After inheriting a shoe factory, Charlie partners with a drag queen named Lola to develop a line of high-heeled boots—kinky boots, to be precise. The show is flashy, fun, and uplifting, while also having some emotional highs.
With the return of Kinky Boots to the West End last week, it has made me reflect on the musical joy of the soundtrack. While every song is incredibly well crafted, certain songs always hit differently. Notably, songs not included here are Soul of a Man, What a Woman Wants, and Take What You Got.
Land of Lola:
Is there a better way to introduce such an iconic character? Land of Lola is the grand introduction to Lola. Throughout the song, Lola dances and sings with her drag group as she introduces the world of drag to Charlie. While singing about the confidence she feels, Charlie begins to figure out a solution to his shoe factory problems, wanting to gain Lola’s help. Overall, this song is very high-energy and makes you feel empowered.
Sex Is in the Heel:
A great upbeat song set in the shoe factory! Lola arrives and decides to enlighten the employees on the importance of the heel for sex appeal. She explains how the heel is the perfect shoe for making you look ‘sexy’ and does so flawlessly. With plenty of opportunities for the cast to take part, this is one of the most uplifting and fun numbers in the show, showcasing the performers’ talents through inventive vocals and dance.
The History of Wrong Guys:
My personal favourite song in Kinky Boots! Lauren is given a promotion by Charlie and starts to develop feelings for him, much to her dismay. Unfortunately, Charlie already has a girlfriend, and Lauren has had bad luck with relationships, making her doubt that this crush is a good idea. The History of Wrong Guys is such a quirky pleasure to listen to, with incredible vocals from any actress who gets the opportunity to play Lauren. I especially enjoy the West End version, as the accent perfectly suits the song.
Not My Father’s Son:
A slower song compared to the rest in this post, Not My Father’s Son explores the upbringings of both Charlie and Lola, particularly their relationships with their fathers. It is a moving and reflective piece, with each character discussing their struggles. Charlie is trying to live up to his father’s expectations by running the shoe factory successfully, even though he is unsure this is what he wants to do with his life. Lola sings about being rejected by her father for who she is, as she does not fit his expectations of masculinity. With brilliant lyrics and strong melodies, this is one of the most emotionally powerful songs in Kinky Boots.
Raise You Up / Just Be:
The finale of Kinky Boots is a real highlight. During the Milan shoe show, everything comes to a head as Charlie and Lola resolve their previous argument, accepting each other for who they are and learning from the experience. Alongside this, several other characters get moments to shine. In particular, Lauren finally gets her moment with Charlie, which feels well deserved. The song is the ultimate celebration of loving who you are and surrounding yourself with people who celebrate that too. Kinky Boots is all about being your authentic self, and this joyful tune is the perfect way to leave the theatre.
Max
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