Hacks' 'Mis Figuritas' Could Be the First Spanish-Language Emmy Winner: A Musical Journey
The world of television awards is about to get a little more colorful and culturally diverse. 'Mis Figuritas', a song from the hit series Hacks, has been nominated for an Emmy, and if it wins, it will be a groundbreaking moment for Spanish-language music. This isn't just any song; it's a carefully crafted masterpiece, blending humor, personal stories, and cultural references, all to secure a spot in the prestigious Best Original Music and Lyrics category.
The journey of 'Mis Figuritas' began with a challenging mission. The showrunners of Hacks tasked composers Carlos Rafael Rivera and David Stal with creating a song that would not only secure a Grammy for Jean Smart's character, Deborah, but also be competitive in a specific, somewhat niche category: regional Mexican music, including Tejano. It was a tall order, but one that the duo embraced with enthusiasm and a deep understanding of the art form.
Rivera and Stal's approach was meticulous. They immersed themselves in the world of Tejano music, listening to artists like Peso Pluma and studying the winners of the category over the years. The goal was to create something authentic, yet contemporary, and they succeeded. The result is a song that, while not strictly Tejano, captures the essence of contemporary mariachi, blending traditional and modern elements seamlessly.
The process was a collaborative effort, with Sebastian Krys, a Grammy-winning producer, guiding them towards Áureo Baqueiro, who brought the song to life with his vihuela playing and horn arrangements. Rob Schaer, a seasoned trumpet player, also contributed to the track, ensuring the musical integrity of the composition. This familial collaboration, as Rivera describes it, was key to the song's authenticity.
The lyrics, a crucial part of the song's success, were a challenge. The initial versions, as Rivera admits, were about a feud between Deborah and her sister, a somewhat pointless and dumb idea. But the showrunners had a vision, and they wanted something that not only made sense within the show's context but also resonated with the audience. The solution came in the form of Deborah's obsession with salt and pepper shakers, a gag that has been serving a dual purpose all season.
The song's title, 'Mis Figuritas de Porcelana', translates to 'My Porcelain Figurines'. It's a heartfelt tribute to the Lladró figurines that Rivera's mother cherished, a nod to his own cultural heritage. The figurines, with their delicate beauty and warning to stay away from their hands, became a symbol of vulnerability and a way for the audience to connect with Deborah's softer side.
The collaboration between Rivera and Stal is a testament to their unique working relationship. They've been trading music back and forth since the Netflix series Godless in 2017, and their process is a blend of their individual talents. Stal, with his Jewish-Texan background, and Rivera, with his Latin roots, bring a rich cultural tapestry to their songs, ensuring they are both authentic and universally relatable.
The Emmy category, known for rewarding comedy and emotional depth, has a history of celebrating songs like 'Dick in a Box' and 'I'm F---ing Matt Damon', alongside more serious entries. Stal, a member of the TV Academy's music peer group, believes that the category is about the emotional impact a song has on the audience. It's about what hits you in the heart, and sometimes, it's the unexpected that resonates the most.
As the Emmy ceremony approaches, the pressure is on, but the excitement is palpable. Rivera, a seasoned composer with multiple nominations and wins, is more thrilled for Stal, his collaborator and friend, than for himself. It's a testament to their bond and the power of their creative partnership.
'Mis Figuritas' is a testament to the power of music to transcend language and cultural barriers. It's a song that, if it wins, will not only celebrate the talent of the composers and performers but also open doors for more diverse and inclusive representation in television awards. As the world awaits the outcome, one thing is certain: 'Mis Figuritas' has already made a significant impact, and its journey is far from over.
