We Need To Talk About Lin-Manuel Miranda And Eisa Davis’s New Concept Album, Warriors

For fans of the critically acclaimed musical Hamilton and/or the coming-of-age play Bulrusher, respective writers Lin-Manuel Miranda and Eisa Davis have quite the treat in store. On Oct. 18, 2024, the two released their co-written, one-hour and 20-minute-long concept album Warriors, and it's just as riveting as any of their past individual works.

The album takes inspiration from the 1979 film of a similar name. Its storyline follows the journey of a fictional New York City gang who must fight their way home after being wrongfully accused of murdering a respected gang leader. But what sets this concept album apart from the film (besides being told in a musical format) are its gender-bent main characters, with Miranda and Davis choosing to make the gang all-female.

When it comes to the songs on this album, listeners will notice just how many different genres they explore throughout. From rap to merengue and even metal, Miranda and Davis leave no stone unturned for this soundtrack. Despite such contrasting sounds, the two still somehow manage to write and compose music in a way that’s cohesive both sonically and storyline-wise.

The album also features a star-studded vocal lineup, with contributions from neo-soul legend Lauryn Hill, Broadway titan Billy Porter, and Hip-Hop icon Busta Rhymes. (Hamilton fans will also be pleased to see the return of the original Eliza and Peggy: Phillipa Soo and Jasmine Cephas-Jones!) Other notable names include RZA, Sheenseea, Nas, and Ghostface Killah.

Considering the writers’ history in the entertainment industry and the album’s musical structure, one can’t help but wonder if Warriors: The Musical will ever become a reality. Sadly, no plans exist to transform this album into a Broadway stage piece. 

But who knows? If there’s enough demand, maybe theatre fans will finally see this dream become a reality. For now, though, we’ll enjoy all Warriors as a concept album can offer.