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

Huff captures the emotional core of this powerful Kinky Boots moment without requiring the vocal gymnastics of the original. The SAB voicing sits comfortably for mixed ensembles while preserving the song's earnest vulnerability and message of acceptance, making it an excellent choice for concert programming that reaches beyond traditional musical theater audiences.

The arrangement breathes with quiet conviction, anchored by warm harmonies that support rather than distract from the essential message. Listeners experience the tenderness and hope of the original without theatrical bombast, creating an intimate moment of connection even in a full choir sound.

Choirs seeking contemporary Broadway repertoire that balances accessibility with emotional depth will find this arrangement ideal for festival performances, concert encores, or standalone concert segments. It works equally well for high school ensembles building their musical theater library and community or adult choirs wanting to explore modern songwriting with heart.

• Balance the melodic line across your soprano section so the tune carries clearly; avoid letting accompaniment parts overshadow the story being told.
• Allow space and breath at phrase endings rather than rushing through to the next section; this arrangement rewards restraint and genuine emotional delivery.
• Pay attention to the text painting in the arrangement; Huff's harmonic choices often reinforce key lyrical moments, so thoughtful diction will amplify their impact.

Pair this with other contemporary pieces exploring themes of identity and belonging for a thematic concert segment, or program it as a contrasting emotional shift within a more traditional Broadway medley. The piece also serves as an excellent choice for spring or winter concert closers, where its sincerity can leave audiences with something genuine to carry with them.

• Singing in SAB voicing with secure upper and lower voice independence
• Interpreting contemporary song text with emotional authenticity rather than theatrical exaggeration
• Balancing melody and accompaniment in arrangements with lean orchestration
• Reading and sustaining longer phrase structures without unnecessary breath interruptions