Aaron Burr, Sir Lyrics - Hamilton

Cover for Hamilton album
Album lyrics:
  1. Act 1
  2. Alexander Hamilton
  3. Aaron Burr, Sir
  4. My Shot
  5. The Story of Tonight
  6. The Schuyler Sisters
  7. Farmer Refuted
  8. You'll Be Back
  9. Right Hand Man
  10. A Winter's Ball
  11. Helpless
  12. Satisfied
  13. The Story of Tonight (Reprise)
  14. Wait For It
  15. Stay Alive
  16. Ten Duel Commandments
  17. Meet Me Inside
  18. That Would Be Enough
  19. Guns and Ships
  20. History Has Its Eye on You
  21. Yorktown
  22. What Comes Next?
  23. Dear Theodosia
  24. Non-Stop
  25. Act 2
  26. What'd I Miss
  27. Cabinet Battle #1
  28. Take a Break
  29. Say No to This
  30. The Room Where It Happens
  31. Schuyler Defeated
  32. Cabinet Battle #2
  33. Washington on Your Side
  34. One Last Time
  35. I Know Him
  36. The Adams Administration
  37. We Know
  38. Hurricane
  39. The Reynolds Pamphlet
  40. Burn
  41. Blow Us All Away
  42. Stay Alive (Reprise)
  43. It's Quiet Uptown
  44. The Election of 1800
  45. The Obedient Servant
  46. Best of Wives and Best of Women
  47. The World Was Wide Enough
  48. Finale (Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story)

Aaron Burr, Sir Lyrics

Aaron Burr, Sir


[COMPANY]
1776. New York City

[HAMILTON]
Pardon me. Are you Aaron Burr, sir?

[BURR]
That depends. Who’s asking?

[HAMILTON]
Oh, well, sure, sir
I’m Alexander Hamilton, I’m at your service, sir
I have been looking for you

[BURR]
I’m getting nervous

[HAMILTON]
Sir…
I heard your name at Princeton. I was seeking an accelerated course of study when I got sort of out of sorts with a buddy of yours. I may have punched him. It’s a blur, sir. He handles the financials?

[BURR]
You punched the bursar

[HAMILTON]
Yes!
I wanted to do what you did. Graduate in two, then join the revolution. He looked at me like I was stupid, I’m not stupid

So how’d you do it? How’d you graduate so fast?

[BURR]
It was my parents’ dying wish before they passed

[HAMILTON]
You’re an orphan. Of course! I’m an orphan
God, I wish there was a war!
Then we could prove that we’re worth more
Than anyone bargained for…

[BURR]
Can I buy you a drink?

[HAMILTON]
That would be nice

[BURR]
While we’re talking, let me offer you some free advice
Talk less

[HAMILTON]
What?

[BURR]
Smile more

[HAMILTON]
Ha

[BURR]
Don’t let them know what you’re against or what you’re for

[HAMILTON]
You can’t be serious

[BURR]
You wanna get ahead?

[HAMILTON]
Yes

[BURR]
Fools who run their mouths off wind up dead

[LAURENS]
Yo yo yo yo yo!
What time is it?

[LAURENS/LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN]
Show time!

[BURR]
…like I said…

[LAURENS]
Show time! Show time! Yo!
I’m John Laurens in the place to be!
Two pints o’ Sam Adams, but I’m workin’ on three, uh!
Those redcoats don’t want it with me!
Cuz I will pop chick-a pop these cops till I’m free!

[LAFAYETTE]
Oui oui, mon ami, je m’appelle Lafayette!
The Lancelot of the revolutionary set!
I came from afar just to say “Bonsoir!”
Tell the King “Casse toi!” Who’s the best?
C’est moi!

[MULLIGAN]
Brrrah brraaah! I am Hercules Mulligan
Up in it, lovin’ it, yes I heard ya mother said “Come again?”

[LAFAYETTE & LAURENS]
Ayyyyy

[MULLIGAN]
Lock up ya daughters and horses, of course
It’s hard to have intercourse over four sets of corsets…

[LAFAYETTE]
Wow

[LAURENS]
No more sex, pour me another brew, son!
Let’s raise a couple more…

[LAURENS/LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN]
To the revolution!

[LAURENS]
Well, if it ain’t the prodigy of Princeton college!

[MULLIGAN]
Aaron Burr!

[LAURENS]
Give us a verse, drop some knowledge!

[BURR]
Good luck with that: you’re takin’ a stand
You spit. I’m ‘a sit. We’ll see where we land

[LAFAYETTE/MULLIGAN]
Boooo!

[LAURENS]
Burr, the revolution’s imminent. What do you stall for?

[HAMILTON]
If you stand for nothing, Burr, what’ll you fall for?

[LAURENS]
Ooh
Who are you? [MULLIGAN]
Ooh

Who are you? [LAFAYETTE]
Ooh


Who are you?

[MULLIGAN/LAFAYETTE/LAURENS]
Ooh, who is this kid? What’s he gonna do?

Last Update: February, 18th 2025


"Aaron Burr, Sir" by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr., Anthony Ramos, Daveed Diggs & Okieriete Onaodowan: Lyrics Details, Meaning & Impact

Aaron Burr, Sir Lyrics - Lin-Manuel Miranda
Lin-Manuel Miranda and Leslie Odom Jr. singing the 'Aaron Burr, Sir' lyrics in the music video.

Song Credits:

  • Featured Artist(s): Leslie Odom Jr., Anthony Ramos, Daveed Diggs, Okieriete Onaodowan
  • Producers: Bill Sherman, ?uestlove, Alexander Hamilton
  • Composers/Writer: Lin-Manuel Miranda
  • Release Date: September 25, 2015
  • Album: Hamilton: An American Musical (Original Broadway Cast Recording)
  • Genre: Broadway, Rap
  • Track #: 2
  • Language(s): English
  • Instrumentation: Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, Guitar, Synthesizer, Banjo, Drums, Percussion
  • Label: PECF, New World Music, Warner Music Group

Exploring the meaning of "Aaron Burr, Sir"

Lin-Manuel Miranda performing song 'Aaron Burr, Sir'
Performance of 'Aaron Burr, Sir' by Lin-Manuel Miranda in the music video.
In "Aaron Burr, Sir," the first encounter between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr in *Hamilton: An American Musical* sets the stage for their lifelong rivalry. This rap-based conversation highlights their contrasting approaches to success, ambition, and revolution. Hamilton, the idealistic orphan, immediately aligns himself with the revolutionary cause, eager to make his mark. On the other hand, Burr, ever cautious and opportunistic, advises Hamilton to hold back, to "talk less, smile more," a philosophy that prioritizes political survival over bold action. The scene contrasts two distinct paths to power: Hamilton's brash, fearless approach versus Burr's calculated, less confrontational style. Throughout the song, the sharp, rapid-fire verses of Hamilton highlight his intellectual prowess and determination. Burr’s slower, more measured lines contrast Hamilton’s intensity, reflecting his more reserved, strategic nature. The interaction between the two reflects the tension that would define their relationship throughout the musical. The playful interruption by characters such as John Laurens, Hercules Mulligan, and the Marquis de Lafayette adds humor and vitality to the track, showcasing the brotherhood Hamilton forms with them in his fight for independence. Their spirited, almost juvenile rapping emphasizes the energy and enthusiasm of youth joining the revolution. Despite the playful tone of the tavern scene, the underlying theme is one of ambition and differing ideologies. Burr’s advice to Hamilton becomes a key theme throughout the musical: those who "run their mouths" often meet untimely ends, a warning Hamilton doesn’t heed. In the end, this early interaction sets up the ideological and personal rift between the two men, leading to one of the most tragic and dramatic moments in American history.

Similar songs with political revolution themes:

Thumbnail from Aaron Burr, Sir lyrics video by Lin-Manuel Miranda
Screenshot from the 'Aaron Burr, Sir' music video, capturing the mood and meaning of the song.
  1. "My Shot" by Lin-Manuel Miranda: "My Shot" shares thematic similarities with "Aaron Burr, Sir," as both songs delve into Hamilton's fiery ambition and revolutionary spirit. While "Aaron Burr, Sir" introduces Hamilton’s character, "My Shot" elevates his ideals, pushing him toward the front lines of the revolution. The energetic rapping and political bravado in both songs set up Hamilton as a fearless figure, one who is not afraid to make noise and fight for what he believes in. Where Burr advises caution, Hamilton embraces defiance, fully encapsulating the tension between the two throughout the musical.
  2. "The Story of Tonight" by Lin-Manuel Miranda: In "The Story of Tonight," Hamilton and his friends—Laurens, Lafayette, and Mulligan—celebrate their youthful, hopeful determination to change the world. Much like the carefree attitude in "Aaron Burr, Sir," this track reflects the shared passion for the revolution, though it also reveals the group’s idealism, not yet fully aware of the challenges ahead. Both songs contrast with Burr’s pragmatic, quieter approach, highlighting the generational divide between idealism and caution.
  3. "The Schuyler Sisters" by Lin-Manuel Miranda: Though musically different, "The Schuyler Sisters" and "Aaron Burr, Sir" both introduce important political themes. While "Aaron Burr, Sir" is focused on Hamilton's and Burr’s personal dynamics, "The Schuyler Sisters" expands on the broader political and social context of the revolution, showcasing the Schuyler sisters' involvement in the cause. Both tracks use rapid-fire lyrics and powerful performances to express the high stakes of the revolutionary moment, though the Schuyler sisters bring a distinct sense of feminism and empowerment to the narrative.
  4. "Wait For It" by Leslie Odom Jr. (Aaron Burr): This track focuses on Burr’s internal conflict, offering a striking contrast to "Aaron Burr, Sir." While Hamilton's ambition in the latter is outspoken and aggressive, Burr's "Wait For It" reveals his more measured approach. Here, Burr grapples with his patience, believing that time will reveal his path to power, whereas Hamilton believes in seizing opportunities immediately. The calm tension in "Wait For It" mirrors Burr's personality, while Hamilton’s character in "Aaron Burr, Sir" is more overtly dynamic and rebellious.
  5. "Revolution" by The Beatles: While not from *Hamilton*, "Revolution" by The Beatles touches on similar themes of political change and revolution, but from a more abstract, global perspective. Both songs deal with the idea of challenging the status quo, but while Hamilton’s approach is deeply personal and tied to American independence, "Revolution" critiques the practicality of violent revolutions. The energy in both tracks, though different in style, shares a sense of urgency and ambition for change.
  6. "Fight the Power" by Public Enemy: "Fight the Power" also explores themes of revolution and resistance, urging people to challenge oppressive systems. Similar to "Aaron Burr, Sir," it embraces a sense of rebellion, though it is less about personal ambition and more about collective resistance. Both tracks use rapid delivery and powerful imagery to drive their message of defiance, yet "Fight the Power" is grounded in social movements, while "Aaron Burr, Sir" is more politically charged around the context of personal goals and ambitions.

Questions & answers.

What makes the character of Aaron Burr so compelling in this song?
Burr's character is compelling because of his unique philosophy—one rooted in caution and calculation. In this first interaction with Hamilton, Burr’s cryptic advice, “talk less, smile more,” shows how he believes in keeping his true intentions hidden to ensure success. This philosophical divide between Hamilton's impulsiveness and Burr’s carefulness lays the groundwork for their eventual rivalry.
How does the rap format in "Aaron Burr, Sir" impact the storytelling?
The use of rap in "Aaron Burr, Sir" allows the characters to communicate quickly and efficiently, reflecting the fast-paced nature of the revolutionary period. The clever wordplay and quick exchanges add energy to the scene, while also highlighting the characters' intellect and verbal dexterity. This fast-flowing dialogue not only serves as entertainment but also as a vehicle for advancing the plot and establishing character dynamics.
Why does Hamilton's impulsive nature stand out against Burr's more controlled persona?
Hamilton's impulsiveness, evident in his quick decision-making and defiance, contrasts sharply with Burr’s measured approach, which emphasizes patience and careful maneuvering. This contrast fuels the tension between the two characters throughout the musical, with Hamilton’s brashness often leading to success or failure, while Burr’s caution keeps him politically afloat—until the tragic end.
Scene from Aaron Burr, Sir track by Lin-Manuel Miranda
Visual effects scene from 'Aaron Burr, Sir' enhancing the experience of the song words and music.

Chart Performance and Awards

- "Aaron Burr, Sir" as part of *Hamilton: An American Musical* has achieved tremendous success on the Billboard charts, reaching #1 on the Top Soundtracks Chart for multiple weeks. The album itself has received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including several Tony Awards and a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album.

Fan and Media Reactions

"The perfect introduction to Hamilton’s world—full of wit, humor, and fierce energy." - *Rolling Stone*
"Leslie Odom Jr.'s portrayal of Burr in this track is chilling, capturing both the charm and the menace of the character." - *The New York Times*
"What strikes me is how this song encapsulates the tension between Hamilton's boldness and Burr’s caution in such a short time." - *The Guardian*
"Every time I hear 'Aaron Burr, Sir,' I am reminded how much I love the vibrant, intelligent energy of the whole cast." - *Fan comment on YouTube*
"The musical's opening moments set the tone for the entire show—smart, quick-witted, and political. 'Aaron Burr, Sir' lays the groundwork perfectly." - *Entertainment Weekly*

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