In the world of entertainment, where awards and recognition often shine a spotlight on the most deserving, the story of 'Mis Figuritas' from the show 'Hacks' is a fascinating one. This 21-second masterpiece, entirely in Spanish, has the potential to make history as the first entirely Spanish-language song to win an Emmy in the Best Original Music and Lyrics category. It's a testament to the power of music and its ability to transcend language barriers.
The song's journey began with a unique challenge: to write a number that would earn Deborah Vance (played by the talented Jean Smart) a Grammy. However, the composers, Carlos Rafael Rivera and David Stal, found themselves nominated for an Emmy instead. This twist of fate is what makes this story so intriguing.
The Creative Process
The showrunners presented a specific vision: a song in the regional Mexican genre, including Tejano, that could realistically win a Grammy. Rivera and Stal rose to the occasion, drawing inspiration from artists like Peso Pluma and studying a decade's worth of winners in the category. The result? A contemporary mariachi-inspired track that fits seamlessly into the regional Mexican genre.
A Collaborative Effort
Rivera and Stal's collaboration is a beautiful example of synergy. They worked together, each bringing their unique strengths to the table. Rivera, with his Latin roots, informed the process, especially when it came to the lyrics. Meanwhile, Stal, a Jewish kid from Texas, let Rivera take the lead, resulting in a genuine and authentic piece of music.
The Power of Lyrics
The lyrics underwent several iterations, with the initial focus being on humor. An early version centered on a feud between Deborah and her sister, but it was ultimately rejected. The final lyrics, about Deborah's obsession with salt and pepper shakers, serve a dual purpose. They not only provide a comedic element but also offer a glimpse into Deborah's vulnerability, a side she rarely shows to the world.
Personal Touches
What makes 'Mis Figuritas' even more special is the personal touch Rivera brought to the song. The Lladró porcelain figurines, a staple in many Hispanic households, hold a special place in Rivera's heart. He grew up in Panama, Costa Rica, and Guatemala, where his mother kept a shelf of these Spanish porcelain treasures. The song's lyrics, "They're the only ones I love, and they're made of Lladró. They're my life," carry a deep personal meaning for Rivera.
A Team Effort
Rivera and Stal credit the success of the song to the entire team, especially Jean Smart's hilarious performance and the setup created by the showrunners. Their collaboration, which began on the Netflix series 'Godless' in 2017, has resulted in a unique and successful partnership.
The Impact of Comedy
The Emmy category in which 'Mis Figuritas' is nominated has a history of rewarding comedy. From 'Dick in a Box' to 'I'm F---ing Matt Damon,' these songs have a way of resonating with audiences on an emotional level. As Stal puts it, "It's what makes you feel the most. It's not an intellectual exercise. It's what hits you here," pointing to his heart.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
For Rivera, this is his seventh nomination, and he has won three times. Stal, on the other hand, is a first-time nominee, not just for 'Mis Figuritas' but also for sound mixing on the episode 'The Garden.' Despite their individual successes, they both agree that the most exciting part is seeing each other's growth and achievements.
A New Challenge
For Rivera, 'Hacks' was his first comedy, and he initially felt miscast. He questioned his ability to deliver the Vegas, jazzy kind of music required for the show. However, his success and the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of legends like Barbra Streisand and Judy Garland have given him a new sense of confidence.
In conclusion, 'Mis Figuritas' is more than just a song; it's a testament to the power of collaboration, personal storytelling, and the impact of comedy. It's a reminder that sometimes the most unexpected creations can leave the most lasting impressions. Personally, I find it inspiring to see how a simple song, with the right ingredients, can capture the hearts of audiences and critics alike.
