The tune is performed by composer James Newton Howard, and it features lead vocals from Lawrence. It was co-penned by Suzanne Collins (the author of The Hunger Games book series), as well as two of the band members of the hit vocal group, The Lumineers (Jeremiah Fraites and Wesley Schutlz). It was released as a single on Republic Records.
“The Hanging Tree” is featured on the latest installment of The Hunger Games series, entitled Mockingjay – Part 1, as well as on the motion picture’s soundtrack.
“They strung up a man, They say who murdered three, Strange things did happen here, No stranger would it be, If we met at midnight, In the hanging tree,” Lawrence sings.
A 24-year-old entertainer, Lawrence’s vocals are too weak and too nasally for her to pull this song off. Her delivery is numb and boring. Had it been offered to such female musicians as Lorde, Tove Lo or Adele, either of these three songstresses would have executed the vocal successfully (with their distinct and crisp vocals), and they would have captivated their fans and audiences doing so.
The Verdict
One thing is for sure. Jennifer Lawrence should not quit her day job: acting. “The Hanging Tree” is one of those songs that once you hear it on the radio stations, you instantly want to change the channel or station. It garners 1 out of 5 stars.
