KT Tunstall, the Scottish singer-songwriter renowned for her mid-2000s hits like "Suddenly I See," is embarking on a new chapter in her musical career, transitioning from the pop charts to the West End stage. Rather than vying for chart-topping singles, Tunstall is composing the score for a new musical adaptation of the beloved 1995 film, Clueless. This marks a significant shift for the 49-year-old artist, who achieved considerable success in the noughties with her folk-infused pop sound. This new venture allows her to explore a different creative avenue, showcasing her musical versatility and expanding her artistic portfolio beyond the realm of popular music.
The Clueless musical, set to premiere in February and run through June, will feature original music composed by Tunstall, with lyrics penned by Grammy Award-winning lyricist Glenn Slater, known for his work on Disney’s The Little Mermaid and the stage adaptation of Sister Act. This collaboration promises a vibrant and contemporary score that captures the essence of the 90s while infusing it with a fresh, modern twist. The musical aims to translate the iconic film’s humor and fashion-forward aesthetic to the stage, creating a fun and engaging theatrical experience for audiences.
Tunstall’s involvement in the Clueless musical signifies a departure from her previous focus on chart success. Her earlier career was defined by her catchy melodies and unique blend of folk, pop, and rock elements. Her debut album, Eye to the Telescope, released in 2004, achieved significant commercial success, peaking at number three on the UK Albums Chart. "Suddenly I See," released the following year, became her signature hit and remains a recognizable track today. However, her subsequent releases haven’t achieved the same level of mainstream recognition, with her last top 40 hit, "(Still a) Weirdo," dating back to 2008.
This transition to composing for musical theatre allows Tunstall to explore different facets of her musical talent. While her pop career focused on crafting catchy hooks and radio-friendly tunes, composing for a musical requires a different approach, demanding a deeper understanding of storytelling through music and the ability to create a score that complements the narrative and enhances the emotional impact of the production. This new challenge presents an opportunity for Tunstall to demonstrate her versatility as a musician and potentially open up new creative avenues in the future.
The Clueless musical itself offers a modernized take on the classic coming-of-age story. The plot follows Cher Horowitz, the popular and stylish Beverly Hills High student, as she navigates the complexities of teenage life, love, and self-discovery. The musical retains the film’s humor and witty dialogue while incorporating contemporary musical elements to resonate with a modern audience. The story revolves around Cher’s attempts to makeover her new friend, Tai, and set her up with the most handsome boy in school, a journey that ultimately leads Cher on a path of self-reflection and personal growth.
Tunstall’s involvement in the Clueless musical signifies not only a personal career shift but also reflects a broader trend of established musicians venturing into musical theatre. This crossover allows artists to explore new creative avenues, contribute to a different art form, and potentially reach new audiences. For Tunstall, this venture marks an exciting new chapter, offering her the chance to showcase her musical talents in a new context and contribute to a production that celebrates the enduring appeal of a beloved film. The success of the musical could pave the way for further opportunities in theatre and solidify Tunstall’s position as a versatile and accomplished musician.
