Golden Boy (musical)

Golden Boy is a 1964 Broadway musical with music by Charles Strouse, lyrics by Lee Adams, and a book by Clifford Odets and William Gibson. It is based on Odets' 1937 play of the same name.

The musical tells the story of Joe Wellington, a young, gifted African-American violinist who, driven by ambition and a desire to escape poverty, turns to boxing, where his talent and power quickly lead him to success. However, his boxing career comes at a high personal cost, as he struggles with his identity, his love life, and the violence inherent in the sport.

Notable songs from the musical include "Everything's Great," "Gimme Some," "No More," "Colorful," and "While the City Sleeps." The original Broadway production starred Sammy Davis Jr. as Joe Wellington. The musical explored themes of racial identity, ambition, morality, and the American Dream.