Unveiling Meryl Streep's Hidden Musical Talents in Only Murders In The Building: A Jaw-Dropping Duet with Ashley Park

Summary

Meryl Streep sings in Only Murders in the Building season 3, episode 3, performing the lullaby-turned-ballad "Look for the Light."

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Broadway composers Sara Bareilles, Benj Pasek, and Justin Paul collaborated to create a song specifically tailored to Streep's voice. Streep, known for her memorable singing roles in films like Mamma Mia! and Into the Woods, reaffirms her exceptional vocal talent in "Look for the Light."

In Only Murders in the Building season 3, episode 3, when Meryl Streep's character sings a song, some viewers might question if it is her real voice. It is common for actors to use voice doubles when singing is required, as not all actors are skilled singers. However, many actors choose to handle their own singing, despite the challenges involved. Therefore, it is natural for viewers of Only Murders in the Building season 3, episode 3, "Grab Your Hankies," to ponder whether Meryl Streep actually sang in her role as Loretta.

In this episode, various new developments arise regarding the death of Ben Glenroy, along with exciting changes for Oliver, Charles, and Mabel. However, the trio's efforts to uncover Ben's murderer are overshadowed by Loretta's remarkable singing, which surprises and delights the audience. The song emerges when Oliver attempts to transform his doomed murder mystery play, Death Rattle, into an ambitious musical. Despite only being given one song to prove himself by his producers, Oliver rises to the occasion and delivers.

Yes, Meryl Streep Does Sing In Only Murders In The Building Season 3, Episode 3

How Meryl Streep's Song With Ashley Park Was Created For Only Murders In The Building

Loretta might be more accurately described as the deliverer in Only Murders in the Building, where Meryl Streep’s character performs a lullaby that seamlessly transitions into an emotionally charged ballad known as "Look for the Light." This original composition was specifically written for the series and Streep herself lent her vocal talents to bring it to life. Notably, this is not the first time Streep has showcased her impressive singing voice, as exemplified by her casting in season 3 of Only Murders in the Building. Additionally, the song incorporates harmonies from Kimber, portrayed by Ashley Park, leading to a powerful crescendo towards the end. While it remains uncertain whether this performance is enough to salvage Oliver’s play, it undeniably leaves a profound impression on viewers.

It's no surprise that Meryl Streep's performance was deeply moving as Oliver received assistance from actual Broadway composers. The heartfelt song, "Look for the Light," was co-written by indie musician Sara Bareilles, renowned for her work on the stage adaptation of Waitress, along with the talented duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, known for their success with The Greatest Showman. While Only Murders in the Building primarily centers around a mysterious death in season 3, the destiny of Oliver's play takes center stage in episode 3. Consequently, the series required an exceptional song to validate the play's ongoing significance, and Broadway's most reliable hitmakers eagerly rose to the occasion.

Meryl Streep Has A Long History Of Singing On Screen

Not only was Streep responsible for performing the song, but "Look for the Light" was specifically crafted to complement her unique vocal abilities. In an interview with Billboard, the songwriters revealed that they collaborated with the actress on the Only Murders in the Building track, striving to create a melody that resonated with her distinct voice. Drawing inspiration from Streep's numerous past onscreen musical performances, Bareilles, Pasek, and Paul had a wealth of material to draw upon when composing "Look for the Light." Despite the possibility of losing Loretta to a Grey's Anatomy spinoff, Oliver's endeavors to salvage his play are almost guaranteed to succeed, thanks to the show-stopping power of this song.

Meryl Streep demonstrated her singing prowess onscreen in the highly successful film Mamma Mia! in 2008. This musical comedy showcased Streep and Pierce Brosnan's delightful crooning, resulting in the Mamma Mia! movies grossing over $1 billion at the box office. However, this was not the first time audiences had the pleasure of listening to Streep's singing voice. In the 2006 ensemble drama The Prairie Home Companion, Streep delivered a heartfelt ode to her youth through song. Additionally, in Postcards from the Edge, viewers were treated to an earlier glimpse of her talent as she belted out the powerful tune "I'm Checking Out."

Meanwhile, Streep's later career showcases a series of remarkable vocal performances. One notable example is "Stay With Me," a challenging Stephen Sondheim song from Into the Woods that Streep flawlessly delivered. Additionally, her duet with James Corden in Netflix's Prom was a hit, thanks to her lively performance. She also took on a later song in the movie, further demonstrating her singing prowess. Although "Look for the Light" showcases Streep's impressive singing ability, it may not come as a surprise to long-time fans of the renowned actor. Fortunately, Only Murders in the Building season 3 offers plenty of other unexpected twists to engage viewers.