My Shot Lyrics > Hamilton

"My Shot" by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Anthony Ramos, Daveed Diggs, Okieriete Onaodowan, Leslie Odom Jr. & Original Broadway Cast of Hamilton: Song Details, Meaning & Impact

Song Credits:

• Producers: Lin-Manuel Miranda, ?uestlove, Black Thought, Bill Sherman & Alex Lacamoire
• Writers: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Richard Rodgers, Oscar Hammerstein II, Havoc, Prodigy, The Notorious B.I.G., Easy Mo Bee & Roger Troutman
• Primary Artists: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Anthony Ramos, Daveed Diggs, Okieriete Onaodowan, Leslie Odom Jr. & Original Broadway Cast of Hamilton
• Vocals: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Anthony Ramos, Daveed Diggs, Okieriete Onaodowan, Leslie Odom Jr.
• Release Date: September 25, 2015
• Album: Hamilton: An American Musical (Original Broadway Cast Recording)
• Musical Genre: Musical Theatre, Hip Hop

Exploring the meaning of "My Shot"

Similar songs with revolutionary messages:

1. "Lose Yourself" by Eminem: Both *"Lose Yourself"* and *"My Shot"* share an intense focus on seizing one's opportunity. In *"Lose Yourself,"* Eminem urges listeners to grasp their chance for success, much like Hamilton, who is determined not to "throw away" his shot at greatness. The song's aggressive beat and defiant tone mirror the urgency present in Hamilton's words. Both songs also reflect a journey of overcoming adversity and rising from humble beginnings, with a critical moment for action as the turning point.
2. "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised" by Gil Scott-Heron: This iconic anthem calls for action and social change, paralleling Hamilton’s call to revolution. Scott-Heron’s lyrics assert that societal upheaval cannot be ignored or postponed, echoing Hamilton’s own revolutionary zeal. Both songs depict the urgency of their respective movements, whether political or social, and the idea that change is not passive but demands active participation.
3. "Fortunate Son" by Creedence Clearwater Revival: *"Fortunate Son"* critiques the societal systems that allow the privileged to avoid the hardships faced by the working class. Hamilton's "shot" is, in part, about breaking free from societal constraints, a sentiment that resonates with the anti-establishment tone of *"Fortunate Son."* Both songs reflect a rejection of passive compliance with the status quo.
4. "I Will Not Bow" by Breaking Benjamin: While more directly related to personal resistance, *"I Will Not Bow"* mirrors Hamilton's refusal to surrender. Its theme of perseverance and resistance to oppressive forces is parallel to Hamilton's declaration that he will not "throw away his shot." Both songs explore the theme of defiance against overwhelming odds, though Breaking Benjamin’s track has a darker, more personal tone.
5. "We Will Rock You" by Queen: The anthem of empowerment and collective strength, *"We Will Rock You,"* shares a similar feeling of unstoppable resolve found in *"My Shot."* The drumbeat in Queen’s song and the militant rhythm of Hamilton’s “shot” create a sense of collective action and rebellion. Both tracks encourage a collective rising up to confront authority, symbolizing unity and strength.
6. "Fight the Power" by Public Enemy: This song serves as a direct call to arms against societal injustice, resonating with Hamilton's message of political upheaval and revolution. Both tracks call for action against systems of power that oppress marginalized groups. While Hamilton is focused on the American Revolution, *"Fight the Power"* speaks to broader, global struggles against oppression and inequality.

Questions & answers

What does "My Shot" symbolize for Hamilton?

The "shot" symbolizes Hamilton's opportunity to change his life and, by extension, the course of American history. It represents his refusal to let personal or political challenges stop him from pursuing his ambitious goals.

How does the song portray Hamilton's relationship with the other revolutionaries?

The song demonstrates Hamilton's close connection with other figures in the revolution, such as Laurens, Lafayette, and Mulligan, as they all share the same passionate drive for freedom and change. Their unity in this fight strengthens the song's message of collective action and revolution.

What is the significance of the repeated refrain "I'm not throwing away my shot"?

The repeated refrain emphasizes Hamilton's unyielding resolve and determination to seize every opportunity. It also foreshadows his tragic end, where the question of whether he truly "throws away his shot" in his duel with Burr becomes a central, symbolic moment in his life.