Top 10 Underrated Songs by Pasek and Paul
- Garry Anderson
- Aug 21
- 3 min read
When you hear the names Pasek and Paul, your mind probably jumps straight to "Waving Through a Window", "You Will Be Found", or the Oscar-winning "This Is Me." But there's so much more to this powerhouse song writing duo than their chart-topping hits.
Whether you're a theatre kid looking for your next audition song or a teacher seeking new material for your students, these hidden gems deserve your attention.
Here are 10 underrated Pasek and Paul songs that deserve the spotlight.
Top 10 Underrated Songs by Pasek and Paul
1) "In Short" - Edges
This fiery comedic solo from their early song cycle Edges is the perfect blend of sass, chaos, and vocal acrobatics. It's a hilarious revenge fantasy wrapped in clever wordplay - and an excellent character piece for auditions.
Why it's underrated: Edges isn't a full musical, so many people miss it entirely. But this track is pure gold for any belty mezzo-soprano with attitude.
2) "The Girl Who Drove Away" - James and the Giant Peach
This sweet, wistful ballad captures the emotional core of James's backstory. It's gentle, melodic, and full of heart.
Why it's underrated: Overshadowed by the more playful ensemble numbers in James and the Giant Peach, this one gets skipped too often. But it's a stunning lyrical solo.
3) "Part of a Painting" - Dogfight
A heartfelt, introspective duet between Eddie and Rose. It beautifully captures the tentative steps of falling in love, and the fear of not being enough.
Why it's underrated: Everyone talks about "Pretty Funny" or "Give Way," but this quiet moment is just as impactful - and ideal for acting-through-song practice.
4) "The Guide to Success" - Edges
An ensemble piece that plays with structure and sarcasm, this song pokes fun at the pressure to have life figured out. It's a brilliant option for group performances or character development workshops.
Why it's underrated: The humour is subtle and mature, making it a fantastic pick for older students or semi-professional showcases.
5) "Some Kinda Time" - Dogfight
This high-energy group number is full of masculine bravado and youthful recklessness. It's musically intricate and filled with subtext - especially when you know what's coming next.
Why it's underrated: While it's well-known within Dogfight fans, it rarely makes it ways into concerts or revues, and it should - it's electric.
6) "Everywhere That You Are" - James and the Giant Peace
A gentle ballad about grief, love, and the unseen presence of someone you've lost. It's subtle, soothing, and emotionally resonant.
Why it's underrated: It's easily one of Pasek and Paul's most beautiful songs, but it's tucked away in a lesser-known show and rarely pulled out as a solo.
7) "Man or a Monster" - The Greatest Showman (cut song)
Originally intended for the character of Phillip Carlyle, this track was cut from the final film - but it's not available online and packs a real emotional punch.
Why it's underrated: Since it never made it to screen, most people don't even know it exists. But it's ideal for tenors looking for something dramatic and fresh.
8) "Before it's Over" - Dogfight
A powerhouse solo for a strong female vocalist, filled with hope, heartbreak, and strength. It's the emotional peak of Dogfight, and a brilliant audition piece.
Why it's underrated: Often lost behind "Pretty Funny," this one is arguably more powerful - and allows for more range and build.
9) "Float" - Edges
A poetic ballad about moving forward, letting go, and trusting that things will work out. With lush harmonies and flowing lyrics, it's a perfect closer for concerts or graduation performances.
Why it's underrated: It's often overshadowed by Edges' more comedic or dramatic numbers - but it's a standout for those who appreciate nuance.
10) "Along the Way" - Smash (TV Show - Season 2)
Originally featured in Smash, this solo was written for the fictional musical Hit List. It's raw, haunting, and emotionally charged.
Why it's underrated: Because it only appeared in Smash, it's often forgotten - but it stands strong on its own and could easily be used in cabaret sets or competitions.
Final Thoughts
Pasek and Paul have a knack for capturing real, raw emotion - and not just in their blockbuster hits. These underrated songs are packed with storytelling, vocal variety, and heart.
Which one will you sing?
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