Tim Rice - Lyrical Brilliance

I've noticed that so many of my favorite songs from musicals over the years were penned by Tim Rice. From his work with Andrew Lloyd Webber on Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita to the more recent shows like The Lion King with Elton John, the words that flow from his pen have always had something special about them

Recently I discovered the song Had To Be, which was recorded by Cliff Richard and Olivia Newton John for the musical Heathcliff. Little did I know that Tim Rice had a part in it, but I should have known. Something about the lyrics to the song had that certain something that Tim always captures. I've yet to figure out what it is, but his songs are different.

Cliff Richard and Olivia Newton John - Had To Be

Of course there are other song's he's written that I've loved just as much. For instance, the beautiful A Winter's Tale that was recently recorded by The Moody Blues is one of my favorites as well. After hearing there version I discovered several other versions of this song including the original recorded by David Essex.
Next to the Moodies lovely version of this song is the one Elaine Paige recorded for her Christmas album back in the 80's.

Elaine Paige - A Winter's Tale

Elaine just happened to be Tim's girlfriend for awhile too. Which might be the reason that she starred in several of his musicals. Which Andrew Lloyd Webber took a cue from later on....as Sarah Brightman was featured in several of his shows besides Phantom Of The Opera.

My favorite Tim Rice musical?

Chess which featured One Night In Bankok and Elaine's gorgeous song, Nobody's Side.

I have to find my copy of that CD and rip it to my hard drive now.