Take Me or Leave Me - RENT (2008 Broadway Cast)

[gothgirlgraveyard]

Best version I’ve ever heard. It has the growl in her voice to give it that grunge-rock vibe. and the low notes give it that mezzo-alto feel.

[vicentehizon]

Mad respect to Tracie Thoms (Joanne). She was able to sing this song with three Maureens. First in the movie, alongside OG Maureen Idina Menzel. Second time around here, with Eden Espinosa. And once more in the Hollywood Bowl with Nicole Scherzinger!

[callistateresa]

ok lol at first i thought wow this joanne sounds a lot like film joanne. it wasn't until 2 and a half minutes into the video did i realise it's the same actor.

[catradoraisyes]

"There will always be women in rubber flirting with me"

[monicavenegas]

I love Idina, but this is my favorite version ever.

[Parker_DNDnerd]

One thing that I’ve noticed the way the song demonstrates the difference between the two, and how this song subliminally showcases Maureen’s toxic tendencies. During her solo section, Joanne had one rude thing to say about Maureen, and it was only implied.

However, while Joanne was singing, Maureen was jabbing at Joanne and trying to make out to be the bad guy. Her first line in the song is jabbing at the fact Joanne went to an Ivy League school, implying she’s acting this way out of privilege.

Maureen obviously has commitment issues, and serious relationships seem to scare her. You can sort of see it in her face during Joanne’s solo. It’s probably why she drinks so much at the party and starts flirting with the woman in the first place. She’s afraid of having things expected of her in relationships.

[Deauxp._]

Never thought I’d like anyone else’s version of Maureen than Idina but this was amazing! I have to say that I like the chemistry between Tracie and this woman a little better 🤭

[luvmenow]

Not a huge rent fan but this is clearly one of the best Broadway numbers

[Midnitescarlett]

I am amazed at Tracie's talent. She can match harmony with anyone! I thought she and Idina were amazing, but this showcases how versatile Tracie is, mattching harmony with someone Elsa (lol)

[Shae]

I’ve always struggled singing this song in it’s original key bc I’m an alto. But singing it in an octave lower is so much better

[garonmario]

Eden and Tracie are absolutely amazing here! I love their chemistry and stage presence.

[sarahjohnson]

Their stage presence is amazing and chemistry. Love it!

[littlebittywonderland]

Holy shit she looks like Idina's TWIN

[toskafr]

man Eden Espinosa needs more appreciation

[quintonbunche]

im sorry, i love idina and this woman here.. but i always get goosebumbs when joanne starts singing.. the black womans voice is so soulful.

[blueberries]

i refuse to break up with a girl unless we break out in song and it's this dramatic

[christinaphipps]

Idina Menzel, Renee Elise Goldsberry, Eden Espinosa did great job in Rent Live in 2008 we all love Rent
Love Always,
Joshua's stage

[oliviaaviles]

eden’s (maureen) smiles is so contagious!!!

[akelahaynes]

Maureen:
Every single day
I walk down the street
I hear people say,
"Baby's so sweet"
Ever since puberty
Everybody stares at me
Boys, girls -
I can't can't help it baby
So be kind
Don't lose your mind
Just remember that I'm your baby

Take me for what I am
Who I was meant to be
And if you give a damn
Take me baby or leave me
Take me baby or leave me

A tiger in a cage
Can never see the sun
This diva needs her stage
Baby - let's have fun!
You are the one I choose
Folks would kill to fill your shoes
You love the limelight too, now baby
So be mine
And don't waste my time
Cryin' - "Oh Honeybear - are you still my baby?"

Take me for what I am
Who I was meant to be
And if you give a damn
Take me baby or leave me

No way - can I be what I'm not
But hey - don't you want your girl hot!
Don't fight - don't lose your head
Cause every night - who's in your bed?
Who's in your bed, baby?
Kiss Pookie

Joanne:
It won't work.
I look before I leap
I love margins and discipline
I make lists in my sleep
Baby what's my sin?
Never quit - I follow through
I hate mess - but I love you
What to do
With my impromptu baby
So be wise
This girl satisfies
You've got a prize
But don't compromise
You're one lucky baby
Take me for what I am

Maureen:
A control freak

Joanne:
Who I was meant to be

Maureen:
A snob - yet over-attentive

Joanne:
And if you give a damn

Maureen:
A lovable, droll geek

Joanne:
Take me baby or leave me

Maureen:
And anal retentive

Both:
That's it!

Joanne:
The straw that breaks my back

Both:
I quit

Joanne:
Unless you take it back

Both:
Women

Maureen:
What is it about them?

Both:
Can't live -
With them -
Or without them!
Take me for what I am
Who I was meant to be
And if you give a damn
Take me baby or leave me
Take me baby
Or leave me
Guess I'm leavin'
I'm gone!

[alexislove]

Her performance and acting wasgreat but of course idina will always vocally by my Fav