Raise You Up/Just Be (from Kinky Boots) (arr. Mac Huff): SATB Choral Octavo

Huff captures the emotional core of this Kinky Boots standout without oversimplifying it for SATB forces. The arrangement gives each voice section meaningful material, and the juxtaposition of two distinct songs creates natural dramatic momentum that keeps singers engaged through all 16 pages.

Intimate and affirming. The arrangement balances tender moments with the infectious energy of musical theater, creating space for reflection before building toward moments of genuine uplift and celebration.

Choirs seeking to expand their contemporary repertoire with material that offers real dramatic substance. This works equally well for high school ensembles with solid four-part blend and college/community choirs looking for accessible yet artistically rewarding programming.

• Balance the vulnerability of the opening section by keeping the bass line conversational rather than supportive; this arrangement thrives when all four parts feel like equal storytellers.
• Pay attention to the transition between songs. Nail the tempo relationship so the shift from one emotional landscape to the other feels inevitable rather than abrupt.
• Lean into the accompaniment's rhythmic groove without letting it pull the choir's ensemble forward; precision here actually creates more space for the singers' voices to breathe.

Use this as a concert anchor when building a set around contemporary themes of identity, acceptance, or resilience. It pairs well with other Broadway selections but also stands effectively alongside art songs or pop arrangements as a bridge between traditional and contemporary idioms.

• Sustained legit singing in a contemporary musical theater context
• Ensemble blend across four distinct voice parts
• Emotional storytelling through careful dynamic control
• Coordination with recorded or live accompaniment
• Navigation of two contrasting compositional sections within a single work