Best Disney Songs Part 6 - #20-11

Ok, so long time no post! My bad! I will make sure I finish this countdown and there is still lots more to come afterwards! Thank you to anyone and everyone still reading!

#20 - God Help The Outcasts, The Hunchback Of Notre Dame

This pretty ballad, whilst Esmeralda is seeking sanctuary, is a call for help to end the gypsy's suffering. It is sung as a solitary prayer and the lyrics are moving and poignant, highlighting the hypocrisy sometimes shown by those claiming to do God's work (particularly the lyric 'I thought we all were, children of God). The animation of the interior of Notre Dame is truly stunning, which makes for quite a moving song overall.

#19 - You've Got A Friend In Me, Toy Story

This is a great song that was an instant classic and gets you thinking about all those people you hold dear to you. It's bouncy, jolly, light and instantly puts me in a good mood! It's very simple yet as soon as the introduction music starts you can't help but smile and sing a long.

 

 

#18 - I'll Make A Man Out Of You, Mulan

 

 

Donny Osmond (yes, that is actually him singing!) voices a song that is part parody of what it means to be a man but also very stirring. Charting Mulan's attempts to integrate herself into the army, the various qualities of manhood and how the recruits don't measure up to them are highlighted. A triumphant ending to the song helps proves why the heroine is one of Disney's best.

 



#17 - Someday My Prince Will Come, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Another iconic Disney song with a message of holding out for one's true love, a message that will resonate with many of the audience members. Its slow melody is soothing and semi-stupefies the listener into a dreamlike state, where they too start fantasising about the prince (or princess!) who will come rescue them (if they haven't already!).

 

 

#16 - You'll Be In My Heart, Tarzan

 

An ode to maternal love, this is just really pretty. The message of loving someone no matter who they are is beautiful and gives a warm, fuzzy glow. Again, this is another comforting and soothing song about love that can't help but bring a smile to the face!

 

 

 

 

#15 - Reflection, Mulan

 

For a character who is generally brave and strong, this shows Mulan at her most vulnerable. Lea Salonga (ignore the annotation on the video that says this is the Christina Aguilera version!) delivers the understated power ballad brilliantly, getting the balance between fragility and steely determination just right. The perfect soundtrack to every moment of self-doubt and wondering what the future holds.

 

 

#14 - The Bells of Notre Dame, The Hunchback of Notre Dame

 

This is Disney storytelling through song at one of its finest moments. Perfectly encapsulating the backstory of Quasimodo and Frollo, this not only sets up the characters but introduces the audience to both the choral and power ballad styles of song that are prevalent in the film. Exciting and breath-taking, this is one of the best openings to any Disney film.

 

 

 

#13 - A Whole New World, Aladdin

 

This, I know, will be a lot of people's favourites and yes - I do love the sight of Aladdin and Jasmine falling in love, their flight around the world is stunning but I still feel its a bit overhyped - its very saccharine (even for my tastes) and I'm not a massive fan of Aladdin's voice! Its still very good though, which is why it has made it high on my list.

 

 

 

 

#12 - Belle, Beauty and the Beast

 

Well this one stepped straight off the Broadway stage didn't it! With multiple layers of singing and lots of action, we are introduced to Belle and her neighbours' views about her! I love Paige O'Hara's voice and she carries this song perfectly, creating our outcast Disney heroine from the off. The various villagers are very funny, particularly the bald lady (see below!) and the baker's wife. I just wish I had more voices so I could sing along to all the parts!

 



#11 - Can You Feel The Love Tonight, The Lion King

Another beautiful ballad which shows two friends reunited after many years and falling in love with one another. I love the background chanting, the harmonies in the chorus, the look of pure love in Nala's eye...oh dear, think I'm getting a bit carried away!

 

 

Thanks again for reading people and I will have the next instalment up in a few days time!

Best Disney Songs Part 5 - #30-21

Hi, here's the next instalment of my favourite Disney songs! Sorry its been a long time coming - its been a hectic week!! Hope you enjoy it!

#30 - I See The Light, Tangled

I'm a sucker for a romantic duet and this is a beautiful romantic duet! Rapunzel and Flynn first admit their feelings for each other in a simple and heartfelt manner. The floating lantern visuals are beautiful, enhancing the scene even further.

#29 - Happy Working Song, Enchanted

Another great parody from Enchanted, in this case lovingly ripping a certain scene from Snow White. The lyrics are very funny (cleaning crud up in the kitchen always gets me!), the melody is catchy and the over-the-top princess acting with the New York vermin is just brilliant!

#28 - Cruella De Vil, 101 Dalmatians

This song introduces us to the famous villainess, and what starts as seemingly just jest becomes creepily true. There is a slinking slyness to the melody which mirrors Cruella well. A classic song that never fades in appeal. P.S. sorry about the video quality, there weren't any better :(

#27 - Baby Mine, Dumbo

An ode to maternal love, this is the most heartbreaking scene in Dumbo (and in my opinion one of the saddest scenes in any Disney movies). Whilst the message speaks of his mother's love, the barriers between Dumbo and his mother only serve to highlight how alone and scared he is.

#26 - Heaven's Light/ Hellfire, The Hunchback Of Notre Dame

The start of the song is Quasimodo's optimistic tribute to love, but it is the Frollo section that makes me love this song. It is leering and creepy, surprisingly sexual and very un-Disney. This is by no means a bad thing, it highlights the hypocrisies of Frollo and makes him an even more hateful villain.

#25 - This Is Halloween, The Nightmare Before Christmas

This is a great opening to the film, introducing the creepy, quirky style of the film brilliantly. The variety of voice work is superb and the slightly discordant sounds heighten the other worldly, ghoulish feel.

#24 - Almost There, The Princess And The Frog

Tiana shares her dreams for the future in a soulful number that is symptomatic of the movie. The art deco animation is an interesting departure from the usual style and sets up the fact that this is a dream sequence brilliantly. This is such a catchy song that I know I will be singing it for days!

#23 - I'm Still Here, Treasure Planet

A far edgier song than what is found in most Disney films, this song highlights the teenage angst of Jim. In terms of story, it narrates the growing friendship between Jim and Long John Silver, two lost souls who are starting to find one another. Whilst starting small and understated, the chorus is very rousing and will have you singing along.

#22 - Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah, Song Of The South

Whilst the film is no longer deemed politically correct, this infectiously optimistic song has become an enduring classic. The blend of live action and animation was ground-breaking at the time and James Baskett's earthy and jolly vocals make this an unforgettable song.

#21 - A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes, Cinderella

One of Disney's finest songs about the power of dreams and wishes, this song is sung beautifully by Ilene Woods. It introduces us to the character of Cinderella perfectly, showing her quiet optimism, loving spirit and warm heart. No wonder she was Walt's favourite princess!

Ok guys, that's the end of this piece, hope you enjoy the mix of songs - this list is probably my most varied so far! I promise I'll update the blog sooner than I have done over the last week, and I hope you keep reading mouseketeers!

Best Disney Songs Part 4 - #40 - 31

Here we are, getting to the business end. We're into my top 40 and the songs are only going to get better from here on in (in my opinion, anyway!)

#40 - A Spoonful of Sugar, Mary Poppins

Parodied a million times though never bettered, this song invites us to look for the fun in mundane tasks. It's a ridiculously catchy tune (most of the Sherman brothers songs are!) and who doesn't love Julie Andrews voice?! The visuals (although looking quite dated now!) are still very fun. If only I could snap my fingers to get all the house work done...

 

 

#39 - He Lives In You, The Lion King 2

 

The only song from the Lion King's sequel that matches the calibre of the original, this song links beautifully to the original by telling us how our loved ones never truly leave us. Whilst it's a shame that in the movie it mirrors but doesn't match Circle Of Life, the song is so good it made it into the Lion King musical as it has a very uplifting feel to it.

 

 



 

 

#38 - What's This, The Nightmare Before Christmas

 

When Jack Skellington first finds a town dedicated to the festive season, we are treated to this brilliant song. With the wide-eyed wonder and excitement of a child at Christmas time, the vocals hit the mood perfectly and it doubtlessly helps stir up many memories of Christmas' past for the viewers.

 

 

 

#37 - Under The Sea, The Little Mermaid

 

Sebastian tries, unsuccessfully, to entice Ariel to stay in the ocean with this energetic song. The lyrics are great (particularly when listing what all the different fish do) making this a classic that everyone loves to sing along to (though please lay off the Jamaican accent, its just embarrassing for us all!)

 

 



 

 

#36 - The Bare Necessities, The Jungle Book

 

Another catchy Sherman brothers tune, this is my favourite song from The Jungle Book. It's easy going attitude and bopping melody are perfect to hum along and de-stress to!

 

 



 

 

#35 - Go The Distance, Hercules

 

This is probably one of Disney's most inspirational and empowering songs for a character. Hercules dreams of finding his place in the world and we will him on to succeed. A Disney karaoke favourite!

 

 



 

 

#34 - I've Got No Strings, Pinocchio

 

It's not the most tuneful of Disney songs, but it is full of charm. The various marionettes flirting with Pinocchio are funny as are the dance routines. It's a little silly but its bumbling and sweet nature sum of the title character perfectly.

 

 



 

 

#33 - Two Worlds, Tarzan

 

A brilliant narration to the start of the final film in Disney's Renaissance, Two Worlds gives us the entire backstory to Tarzan and the Gorillas in a heart-wrenching but also strangely uplifting manner. The visuals are stunning, taking us deep into the heart of the jungle, which only serves to enhance this brilliant Phil Collins song.

 

 

 

#32 - Poor Unfortunate Souls, The Little Mermaid

 

Possibly Disney's most camp moment ever, Ursula flounces around her cavern in an attempt to persuade Ariel to make a deal with her. The vocal work (its not fully singing in many parts) is outstanding, capturing the essence of the character entirely, and the tinkling haunted house music is very creepy. There is some dry humour but also the sight of the diminished mermaids is slightly terrifying!

 

 

 

 

#31 - Feed The Birds, Mary Poppins

 

An iconic song that is just beautiful; from the message behind the lyrics to the vocals. It teaches us not to be too wrapped up in our own being and look out for others whilst lulling us into a semi-dreamlike state. However, I was very disappointed when I visited St Paul's recently and saw a sign that told me not to feed the birds!

 





Best Disney Songs Part 3 - # 50 - 41

Here we go - its the next 10 in my countdown! Hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy writing it!

#50 - Be Our Guest, Beauty And The Beast

This is Beauty and the Beast's massive, show-stopping Broadwayesque  number. Its upbeat, jolly and the lyrics manage to pack in enough foodstuffs to leave you drooling! What it doesn't have in heart, it certainly makes up with spectacle.

 

 

# 49 - When Will My Life Begin, Tangled

 

The song introduces us to Rapunzel and Pascal, her repetitive routines, her dreams for the future and the light comedic style of the film - pretty impressive for a song just under 2 and a half minutes! There's something about Mandy Moore's voice which makes her seem more 'normal'/'human' than the other Disney princesses (maybe its not as showy) which makes her instantly more accessible and loveable.

 



 

 

#48 - In A Golden Afternoon, Alice In Wonderland

 

Its another trippy Disney moment with a chorus of flowers serenading Alice. The harmonies are beautiful and with clever puns ('bread and butter flies' is probably my favourite!) this song sparks imagination and wonder.

 

 



 

 

#47 - Be Prepared, The Lion King

 

This is one of Disney's best villain songs, fronted by the very camp Scar! The song centres on his plans to become king and plays as an interesting opposing view to 'I Just Can't Wait To Be King' - its far less innocent and far more devious! In one of Disney's more surprising moments, the goose-stepping hyenas draw a chilling parallel to another psychotic but charismatic leader.



 

 

 

#46 - Out There, The Hunchback Of Notre Dame

 

The first song on this list from one of my favourite soundtracks! Out There is a gorgeous ballad which gives us a greater understanding of the dreams of Quasimodo. It starts with someuncomfortable bullying by Frollo but transforms into a vision of beauty once Tom Hulce starts to sing. The belted, astonishingly high notes coupled with the beautiful Parisian skyline make this wonderful to watch.

 

 

 



#45 - Friends On The Other Side, The Princess And The Frog

 

Taking us into a voodoo world, this villain oussong is actually quite comical, upbeat and catchy. It's not until closer inspection that the malice behind these demon spirits becomes more apparent and the threat to Naveen in particular is revealed. Dr Facilier is ghoulish in his performance and the trickery of his shadow is brilliant.

 

 

 

#44 - Mother Knows Best, Tangled

 

Another villain song! Mother Gothel scares Rapunzel into staying locked in the tower. In reality, the song is ridiculously funny as the scenarios she conjures up are just absurd (men with pointy teeth! haha!). Donna Reed's diva-esque vocals, which are mirrored by Gothel's movements, only emphasise how self-centred the character is. It isn't until the end, when Gothel elicits a promise from Rapunzel, that we see anything truly evil and cunning.

 

 



 

 

#43 - Something There, Beauty And The Beast

 

The song where Belle and the Beast first start to realise their feelings for one another, this is a real turning point in the film; it's welcome to see our two heroes soften and become more playful. The fact that it is their thoughts (they do not sing out loud) makes us feel closer to the characters and the facial expressions/ fidgety mannerisms highlight how these are probably the most realistic and human-like pair Disney have ever animated.

 

 

 

 

 

#42 - Scales And Arpeggios, The Aristocats

 

Why is a simplistic song that is sung slightly out of tune by a little girl so darn catchy?! I'm not sure I can actually answer that, other than say it just is! The play fighting is adorable and the simple melody ensures you will be humming this for days.

 

 



 

 

#41 - Little April Showers, Bambi

 

From a film that is quite low on songs, this is a real gem! The choir and orchestra mirror the various sounds of the storm perfectly and the beautiful animation of the film certainly make this a memorable moment.

 

 



 

Big thanks to those mouseketeers who are still reading - it'd be great to hear what more of you think! I'm trying to pack as many different films into the list so that there may be some surprises for you all! Will be back with the next part soon!

Best Disney Songs Part 2 - #60 - 51

Here's part 2 of my favourite songs - a little shorter as its late and I'm tired! Hope you enjoy it - if you do (or don't!) please give me feedback in the comments as I'd love to know what people think!

# 60 - Just Around The Riverbend, Pocahontas

A brilliant song that highlights Pocahontas' sense of adventure and the dilemma she is facing. Judy Kuhn's vocals are brilliant, exciting the audience and making us start to care for Pocahontas and her philosophical outlook.

 

 

# 59 - I Just Can't Wait To Be King, The Lion King

 

A child's dreaming about how wonderful they're adult life will be before reality hits; this quality is highlighted by the garish, less-than-lifelike animation that couples the song. Zazu's cynicism punctuates the optimism perfectly to stop it becoming too saccharine.

 

 

 

# 58 - Whistle While You Work, Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs

 

Snow White sets a precedent for Disney princesses and how they need to be able to enlist the help of their furry friends to do the housework. The song is infectious and all of the animals are very cute - particularly the chipmunks and the tortoise!

 

 



 

 

# 57 - You Can Fly! You Can Fly! You Can Fly, Peter Pan

 

Wide-eyed childlike adventure is abundant here with the Darling children making their way to Neverland. Whilst excitement and wonder characterises the start of the song, it is the second half flight sequence that is the most beautiful, accentuated by the majestic choir. (P.S. faceless Wendy is scary!!!)

 

 



 

 

# 56 - Pink Elephants On Parade, Dumbo

 

Is it slightly scary? Yes! Does it look like the product of hallucinogenic drugs? Certainly! Is it amazing? Of course! A cacophony of creepy voices and morphing elephants haunt the drunk Dumbo and Timothy. One of Disney's most unexpected, absurd but classic moments!

 

 



 

 

# 55 - Bibbidi-Bobbodi-Boo, Cinderella

 

This is one of the pivotal scenes in Cinderella where her fortunes finally begin to look up. There is magic and joy which our heroine has previously been denied. Sure, the lyrics are non-sensical but they are also amazingly catchy. An iconic song.

 

 



 

 

# 54 - One Jump Ahead, Aladdin

 

An introduction to the character of Aladdin, this is an exciting song and sequence that sets up our loveable rogue. A funny supporting cast and lots of action holds the audience's attention from the get-go!

 

 



 

 

# 53 - Not In Nottingham, Robin Hood

 

When things look bad in the Sherwood forest, this melancholy song narrates the hardships being faced by the residents. It comes as something of a shock in this generally upbeat film, which makes its impact all the more effective. The country style lends itself well to the emotions on display.

 

 



 

 

# 52 - Hawaiian Rollercoaster Ride, Lilo And Stitch

 

An upbeat song from a fun film that transports us to Hawaii and causes the audience to yearn to travel there. The call and response style of the song is simple but implores the audience to join in. This should be used in tourism adverts for the beautiful island!

 

 



 

 

# 51 - So This Is Love, Cinderella

 

This romantic waltz melts our hearts whilst Cinderella and Charming are falling in love. Its fuzzy, shining, dreamlike quality hints this love transcends from another world - it is so perfect. The harmonies are beautiful so its a real shame when the song ends and the pair have to face reality again.

 

 

Best Disney Songs Ever Part 1 - # 80 - 61

As you will see in my upcoming reviews, the songs are what makes Disney so special and is a major factor in (what I believe) puts Disney head and shoulders above the rest of the competition. The following is my review of numbers 80-61 in what I believe are the best Disney songs. Do you agree with me? Think some of these should be higher? Let me know!

#80 - Best Of Friends, The Fox And The Hound

A sweet song about friendship and the innocence of children. The upbeat tune and visuals makes it catchy and seemingly jolly, although on reflection (given the turn of events in the film) the more melancholy undertones are evident. A clever feat for a song from a relatively overlooked film.

 

 

 

# 79 - Snuff Out The Light, The Emperor's New Groove

 

What can I say? Deliciously camp humour sung by Eartha Kitt in Disney's (arguably) funniest film. Its not profound, it didn't even make the final cut of the film but it is brilliant nonetheless!

 

 

 

 

#78 - When I See An Elephant Fly, Dumbo

 

 

I know there is the controversy surrounding the crows and how much of a stereotype they are. Even the subject, a slightly less mean-spirited version of the mocking Dumbo receives throughout the entire film, is hardly uplifting. But the melody is infectious, the puns are silly and you can't help bopping along!

 

 



 

 

#77 - Welcome, Brother Bear

 

A heart-warming song where Kenai starts to understand his fate and feels more akin to those around him. It's not the most well known of Disney songs but it is one of the sweetest. It would be very well suited to the welcoming spirit of the theme parks in my opinion!

 



 

 

#76 - Kiss The Girl, The Little Mermaid

 

 

I can hear the gasps already - how could this song be so low?! It's sweet, sure, and visually brilliant but it's just one of those songs which I feel is slightly over-hyped. Probably the worst song in Little Mermaid (although its competition is fierce!)

 

 



 

 

#75 - He's A Tramp, Lady And The Tramp

 

Peg (voiced by Peggy Lee) confesses her love for the adorable tramp. A departure in the usual style of Disney songs, it therefore sticks in the brain immediately. The dogs as backing singers sound hideous but it works in a weird way. A very sexy (in a non-threatening Disney way!) song ;)

 



 

 

#74 - Gaston, Beauty And The Beast

 

 

The boasting, the machismo, the posturing is all very funny. The lyrics are clever and the melody infectious. So why is it so low? Maybe it's the unintelligible villagers' singing or the extreme arrogance that pushes it down a few places in my books! (P.S. the video is far better quality than how it looks!)

 

 



 

 

#73 - Great Spirits, Brother Bear

 

One of Disney's 'message' songs - it tells us about the importance of learning from our ancestors, being respectful towards people and nature and it is accompanied by stunning visuals. Maybe not as catchy as similar tunes (e.g. Colours of the Wind) but just as heartfelt. The Tina Turner version is great too!

 

 

#72 - Arabian Nights, Aladdin

 

 

The song starts small and intimate and soon introduces us to the Arabian world of Agrabah. Soaring vocals follow and hints at the adventure and danger to come- it's a solid opener. However, the opening music is probably my favourite part! 

 

 

# 71 - Hakuna Matata, The Lion King

 

 

It's fun, it introduces us to the immensely loveable Timon and Pumbaa, it moves away from the previous sadness of the story but essentially it is comedic filler and does very little in the way of story telling. It's a great philosophy to have though!

 

 



 

 

# 70 - If I Never Knew You, Pocahontas

 

 

Eventually cut from the final film, I believe this is actually one of Disney's most beautiful love songs. A true testament to the power of love; that we will endure the hardships because the highs are so sweet and profound. Its just a shame about Mel Gibson's vocals really - the song would be a classic otherwise!

 

 



 

# 69 - Down In New Orleans, The Princess And The Frog

 

It forms a simple introduction to the characters and the setting and its jazz style eases the viewer nicely into the film. Not a classic opening but enjoyable nonetheless!

 

 

 

 

 

# 68 - Love, Robin Hood

 

 

Does anyone actually remember this song? They should - it's a pretty song for Robin and Marian's engagement about the enduring qualities of love. Cute visuals, this Oscar nominated song deserves more recognition and praise.

 

 



 

 

# 67 - Trust In Me, The Jungle Book

 

 

A song which, in my opinion, perfectly mirrors the story behind the song - it is hypnotic and has a very sly undertone to it.

 

 







 

# 66 - That's How You Know, Enchanted

 

 

In a brilliant film full of excellent songs, this is one of the most satirical of the romantic clichés employed by most Disney movies. I love a good romance but seeing this emphasises how ridiculous it all is! The overacting and random strangers joining in (a nod to classic Disney) only serve to increase the humour.

 

 

 

# 65 - Jolly Holiday, Mary Poppins

 

 

Completely ridiculously fantastical fun from Mary Poppins. Again, clichés are abound with singing animals and group dances (from the gorgeous Penguins!). If your willing to overlook the awful Cockney accent this is actually one of the best songs in the film!

 

 



 

 

# 64 - I'll Go Sailing No More, Toy Story

 

A heart-breaking song where Buzz comes to the realisation that he is a toy and not an actual space ranger. Randy Newman's distinctive voice manages to convey the message beautifully. One of the most poignant moments of the movie.

 

 



 

 

# 63 - Goodbye May Seem Forever, The Fox And the Hound

 

 

Another tear-jerker  - a song that never fails to make me cry! The spoken lyrics to begin with reinforce the grief of the song and the choral ending will have you weeping buckets!

 

 



 

 

# 62 - Winnie-The-Pooh Theme, The Many Adventures Of

           Winnie-The-Pooh

 

 

It's sweet and bouncy just like the bear himself. It effectively and swiftly introduces us to the characters and the storybook style of the film. And lets be honest, who doesn't love Winnie-the-pooh!

 

 



 

 

# 61 - Heigh-Ho, Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs

 

 

This has to be one of the most well-known Disney songs that everyone can sing along to.  The blend of the dwarfs voices is wonderful to listen to and I also love the rhythmic feel that emulates the digging. I suppose we can forgive the glaring error that the dwarfs are not actually 'off TO work' but are going home FROM work!

 

 



 

 

So there you have it! Numbers 80-61 in my countdown of songs that I love from Disney films! What do you think? What should come next? Stay tuned mouseketeers and see if you agree!