Disney movies are synonymous with enchanting stories, captivating characters, and, undeniably, unforgettable music. For decades, Disney songs have woven their way into the fabric of popular culture, becoming the soundtrack to childhoods and adult nostalgia alike. But with such a rich and extensive catalog, which tunes truly stand out as the greatest? This list dives deep into 30 exceptional Disney tracks, exploring the magic, the melodies, and the moments that make them truly timeless. From animated classics to modern masterpieces, prepare to revisit (or discover) the very best of Disney’s musical legacy.
30. Little April Shower (Bambi, 1942)
Opening our list is “Little April Shower” from Bambi. This song is a curious and somewhat unsettling entry. While ostensibly about a spring rain shower, the song takes on a surprisingly dramatic and almost ominous tone. The middle section, in particular, with its swirling orchestration and wordless vocal chorus, lends a strange, hallucinatory quality to what should be a lighthearted moment. Some have even noted a resemblance to the more experimental sounds of Brian Wilson’s Smile era Beach Boys, hinting at a deeper, perhaps unintentional, complexity beneath the surface of this animated woodland tune. It’s a song that proves even a simple rain shower can sound epic and a little bit eerie in the world of Disney.
29. Why Should I Worry? (Oliver & Company, 1988)
Nestled in Disney’s less celebrated 1980s period, “Why Should I Worry?” from Oliver & Company is a hidden gem. The music is distinctly rooted in its era, with a catchy 80s pop-rock vibe. However, what truly elevates the song are Billy Joel’s lyrics, which seem to channel a Lou Reed-esque persona. References to New York City landmarks like the Bowery, St Mark’s Place, and the Chelsea Hotel, combined with the deadpan delivery of lines like “Why should I care? / Even when I cross the line, I got street savoir-faire,” create a uniquely cool and cynical Disney song. It’s a surprising and refreshing moment of urban grit within the animated world of a Disney feature.
28. I 2 I (A Goofy Movie, 1995)
A Goofy Movie, while initially met with a lukewarm reception, holds a secret weapon: “I 2 I”. This upbeat and infectious track, performed by Tevin Campbell and Rosie Gaines, is a standout moment. Heavily influenced by breakbeats and sharp synth stabs, the song is an undeniable homage to Prince, Gaines’ frequent collaborator. “I 2 I” is a testament to Disney’s willingness to experiment with contemporary pop sounds, even in films that might fly under the radar. This song is a vibrant and energetic burst of 90s R&B that deserves far more recognition as one of Disney’s most underrated hits.
27. Mother Knows Best (Tangled, 2010)
Even as Disney embraced contemporary pop music in its films, they haven’t abandoned their Broadway roots. “Mother Knows Best” from Tangled is a perfect example of this. This song, sung by Mother Gothel, is a theatrical, almost operatic villain song, packed with dramatic flair and humor. It’s a fabulously over-the-top inventory of the world’s perceived dangers, ranging from violence and disease to the hilariously mundane “large bugs.” “Mother Knows Best” is a brilliant showcase of traditional musical theatre within a modern Disney context, proving that classic Broadway showmanship still has a place in animated features.
26. Friends on the Other Side (The Princess and the Frog, 2009)
Randy Newman’s soundtrack for The Princess and the Frog is a masterclass in New Orleans musical styles, seamlessly blending R&B, jazz, and zydeco. But arguably the soundtrack’s pinnacle is “Friends on the Other Side.” This voodoo-inspired song is a dark and captivating villain number performed by Dr. Facilier. While Dr. John himself appeared on the soundtrack, “Friends on the Other Side,” with a slightly different production approach, wouldn’t have felt out of place on his iconic and eerie 1968 debut album, Gris Gris. It’s a sophisticated and atmospheric song that delves into the darker side of Disney villains with a distinctly New Orleans flavor.
25. Under the Sea (The Little Mermaid, 1989)
The Little Mermaid is widely credited with sparking the “Disney Renaissance,” and “Under the Sea” is a key reason why. This calypso-infused song, sung by Sebastian the crab, is pure joy and infectious energy. Beyond its catchy melody, “Under the Sea” is also surprisingly witty and knowing, reflecting the film’s more contemporary and sophisticated approach to storytelling. The lyric “Darling it’s better, down where it’s wetter,” is a prime example of the song’s playful double entendre and social commentary subtly masked beneath its upbeat rhythm. It’s a song that’s both irresistibly fun and cleverly subversive.
24. Be Prepared (The Lion King, 1994)
While The Lion King is celebrated for its powerful ballads and humorous songs, “Be Prepared” is a different kind of masterpiece. This villain song, performed by Scar, is a chilling and darkly comedic exploration of evil ambition. The music itself is a militaristic tango, creating a sense of menace and calculated strategy. The film scene accompanying the song even subtly evokes imagery reminiscent of the Nuremberg rallies, adding a layer of historical and political undertones to Scar’s villainy. “Be Prepared” is a sophisticated and sinister song that stands as one of The Lion King‘s most impactful musical moments.
23. Be Our Guest (Beauty and the Beast, 1991)
Disney songs succeed for various reasons. Sometimes it’s emotional resonance, and sometimes it’s pure, unadulterated catchiness. “Be Our Guest” from Beauty and the Beast falls firmly into the latter category. This cod-French, gluttony-celebrating anthem, sung by Lumiere the candlestick, is designed to lodge itself firmly in your brain. It’s the kind of song that, once heard, is never truly forgotten without significant effort. “Be Our Guest” is a testament to the power of sheer melodic memorability and theatrical exuberance in creating a Disney classic.
22. You’re Welcome (Moana, 2016)
Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creative force behind Hamilton, brought his songwriting prowess to Moana, resulting in “You’re Welcome.” This song, sung by Maui, is a vibrant homage to the sunshine pop of the 1960s, reminiscent of bands like The Turtles or The Association. However, like the best sunshine pop, “You’re Welcome” has a subtle undercurrent of something darker. The lyrics are a masterclass in passive-aggression, as Maui takes credit for everything good in the world, with a playful but pointed edge. It’s a song that’s both breezy and subtly biting, showcasing Miranda’s lyrical genius.
21. A Whole New World (Aladdin, 1992)
“A Whole New World” from Aladdin is a song that has proven its resilience and enduring appeal. The fact that it can even withstand a questionable rendition by Peter Andre and Katie Price and still remain beloved speaks volumes about its construction. More famously and successfully recorded by Peabo Bryson and Regina Belle, “A Whole New World” achieved a rare feat for a Disney song: it knocked Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” off the top of the US charts, becoming the only Disney song to ever reach No. 1 in the United States. This soaring ballad is a testament to the power of classic Disney romance and songwriting.
20. Oogie Boogie’s Song (The Nightmare Before Christmas, 1993)
Tom Waits’s nightmarish reimagining of “Heigh-Ho” from Snow White on the Disney-themed compilation Stay Awake seems to have paved the way for songs like “Oogie Boogie’s Song” from The Nightmare Before Christmas. This jazzy, beatnik-inspired tune, sung by Oogie Boogie, feels like Waits in full swing. From the film that launched countless teenage goth backpacks, “Oogie Boogie’s Song” is a delightfully creepy and jazzy villain number. It’s a perfect example of the film’s unique blend of spooky and whimsical, and a testament to Danny Elfman’s distinctive musical style.
19. Gaston (Beauty and the Beast, 1991)
“Gaston” from Beauty and the Beast is a comedic tour de force. This song perfectly captures the boisterous and narcissistic personality of Gaston, as he makes increasingly outlandish and hilarious boasts, like “I’m especially good at expectorating.” The fawning chorus of his admirers only amplifies the humor and absurdity. Interestingly, by the time of the 2017 live-action remake, “Gaston” took on a surprisingly relevant layer of political satire, highlighting the song’s timeless comedic and social commentary. It’s a brilliantly written and performed character song that remains a Disney highlight.
18. In a World of My Own (Alice in Wonderland, 1951)
“In a World of My Own” from Alice in Wonderland possesses a surprising psychedelic undercurrent. It’s remarkable that a late 1960s band, known for their lysergic explorations, didn’t cover this song. While the music itself is rooted in pre-rock ‘n’ roll pop, Kathryn Beaumont’s pure, innocent vocals and the lyrics – “All the flowers would have very extra special powers / They would sit and talk to me for hours” – are pure, albeit unintentional, psychedelia, predating the movement by over a decade. It’s a whimsical and dreamlike song that captures the surreal nature of Alice in Wonderland and hints at unexpected musical depths within early Disney animation.
17. Goodbye, So Soon (Basil and the Great Mouse Detective, 1986)
Basil and the Great Mouse Detective is often cited as an example of Disney’s less successful period. However, “Goodbye, So Soon” is a lost treasure from this era. Sung with gleeful villainy by Vincent Price as Ratigan, this song operates on multiple levels. It functions as a classic villainous declaration of intent, as Ratigan wishes death upon his enemies. But it also works surprisingly well as a bitter kiss-off to a former partner, adding a layer of unexpected emotional complexity. “Goodbye, So Soon” is a darkly humorous and sophisticated villain song that deserves rediscovery.
16. Oo-De-Lally (Robin Hood, 1973)
By the time Robin Hood was released, some of the 1960s pop revolution seemed to have seeped into Disney’s musical approach. Roger Miller’s “Oo-De-Lally” is a charming acoustic song with a distinct coffeehouse folk vibe. The melody is even reminiscent of Neil Young’s “Dance Dance Dance,” suggesting a subtle influence from the folk-rock scene. “Oo-De-Lally” is a laid-back and folksy departure from typical Disney fare, showcasing a more relaxed and rootsy musical style. It’s a testament to Disney’s willingness to experiment with different genres and sounds, even in their traditionally animated features.
15. Stay Awake (Mary Poppins, 1964)
The debate continues: which Mary Poppins song reigns supreme, “Feed the Birds” or “Stay Awake”? “Stay Awake” narrowly edges out its competitor on this list. Less overtly sentimental than “Feed the Birds,” “Stay Awake,” from its a cappella intro, possesses an indefinable creepiness. Sung by Julie Andrews, this lullaby gets under the listener’s skin with its slightly unsettling tone. It’s a testament to the complexity and nuance that can be found even within seemingly simple Disney songs. “Stay Awake” is a lullaby that’s both comforting and subtly unnerving.
14. You’ve Got a Friend in Me (Toy Story, 1996)
Randy Newman, known for his often adult and sometimes controversial singer-songwriter style, might seem like an unconventional choice for Disney. However, he has scored nine Disney films (primarily Pixar films, which became part of Disney in 2006), proving to be a perfect fit. His most celebrated Disney contribution, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from Toy Story, is a simple yet timeless ode to unwavering friendship. Newman’s characteristically gruff vocal delivery adds further charm to the song’s heartfelt message. Its recurring use in subsequent Toy Story films became increasingly ironic and poignant, highlighting the enduring power of friendship through changing times.
13. Trust in Me (The Jungle Book, 1967)
“Trust in Me” from The Jungle Book has a surprisingly complex legacy. Siouxsie and the Banshees famously gave it a psych-goth makeover, correctly identifying a curiously erotic undercurrent in the song. “Trust in Me” is arguably The Jungle Book‘s strangest and most alluring moment. The simple, hypnotic melody, combined with the serpentine flute, makes villainy sound strangely appealing. It’s a song that embraces the seductive nature of evil, adding a layer of unexpected depth to the animated jungle setting.
12. Baby Mine (Dumbo, 1941)
Dumbo‘s opening scenes are authentically traumatic and upsetting, highlighting how much children’s entertainment sensibilities have evolved over the decades. Amidst this grim backdrop, “Baby Mine” emerges as a moment of heartbreaking beauty. This lullaby, sung by Dumbo’s imprisoned mother, is a poignant saga of unconditional parental love set against a backdrop of cruelty and bullying. “Baby Mine” is a deeply emotional and tender song that underscores the powerful bond between mother and child, even in the face of adversity.
11. The Bare Necessities (The Jungle Book, 1967)
Originally conceived with a folksy country soundtrack and even a Beatles parody song, The Jungle Book ultimately delivered what might be Disney’s most consistently excellent soundtrack. “The Bare Necessities,” sung by Baloo, is a prime example of its brilliance. The song successfully promotes a carefree, “don’t-worry-be-happy” philosophy without becoming saccharine or irritating. It’s a genuinely uplifting and infectious tune that embodies the spirit of adventure and simple living. “The Bare Necessities” is a testament to the art of crafting feel-good music that is both memorable and meaningful.
10. The Age of Not Believing (Bedknobs and Broomsticks, 1971)
“The Age of Not Believing” from Bedknobs and Broomsticks is a surprisingly mature and melancholic Disney song. It’s a moving and insightful reflection on the fading of childhood innocence and the loss of belief in magic. The song is almost unbearably sad, feeling less like a children’s song and more like an existential crisis set to music. Lyrics like “Your dreams are lost up on a shelf / And worst of all, you doubt yourself” resonate with a depth and emotional complexity rarely found in Disney soundtracks. “The Age of Not Believing” is a poignant and introspective song that speaks to the universal experience of growing up and facing disillusionment.
9. Remember Me (Coco, 2017)
Coco tackles weighty themes like death and dementia with sensitivity and beauty. “Remember Me,” the film’s central tearjerker, perfectly encapsulates these themes. Written by Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez (the duo behind “Let It Go”), “Remember Me” is far more nuanced and subtle than their mega-hit. The melody, inspired by Chopin, is strong enough to withstand its repeated performances throughout the film. “Remember Me” is a deeply moving and emotionally resonant song that explores themes of memory, family, and legacy with grace and power.
8. Someday My Prince Will Come (Snow White, 1937)
“Someday My Prince Will Come” from Snow White is one of the earliest Disney songs to transcend its animated origins and enter the realm of “adult” music. Its gorgeous, swooning melody became a jazz standard, reportedly first performed in this style by the Ghetto Swingers, a jazz band formed in the Theresienstadt ghetto/concentration camp. It was subsequently covered by jazz icons like Miles Davis and Dave Brubeck, further cementing its status as a timeless classic. “Someday My Prince Will Come” is a testament to the enduring power of Disney songwriting, capable of resonating across genres and generations.
7. A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes (Cinderella, 1950)
“A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from Cinderella is surprisingly less saccharine than one might expect from a song sung to anthropomorphic birds and mice. It stands as a strong contender against “When You Wish Upon a Star” for the title of early Disney’s greatest ballad. Covered by artists ranging from Brian Wilson to Jessie Ware, “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” possesses a timeless quality and universal appeal. It’s a song about hope, perseverance, and the power of dreams, resonating with audiences of all ages.
6. Jessie’s Song (Toy Story 2, 1999)
“Jessie’s Song” from Toy Story 2, particularly with its accompanying visuals depicting Jessie’s backstory, continues Disney’s tradition of exploring the bittersweet sadness of childhood’s end. However, even without the visuals, Randy Newman crafted something profoundly universal. “Jessie’s Song” is a poignant and emotionally affecting piano ballad that could easily be interpreted as a lament for a lost love affair or a friendship mourned by only one party. It’s a song that transcends its animated context, speaking to the universal experience of loss and longing.
5. Ev’rybody Wants to Be a Cat (The Aristocats, 1970)
While Disney was still somewhat behind the curve on pop music trends (evident in the barbershop quartet crows in The Jungle Book based on the Beatles), they were on firmer ground with jazz. “Ev’rybody Wants to Be a Cat” from The Aristocats is a jazzy, pun-filled delight. Scatman Crothers’ star turn, complete with a vaguely Eartha Kitt-esque interlude from Eva Gabor, remains irresistibly fun and energetic. Playing on the slang term “cat,” the song is a celebration of jazz culture and feline cool. “Ev’rybody Wants to Be a Cat” is a vibrant and swinging jazz number that epitomizes the film’s playful spirit.
4. Let It Go (Frozen, 2013)
Overexposure might have slightly dulled its initial impact, but there’s a clear reason “Let It Go” from Frozen became a global phenomenon. It is, arguably, the best-written power ballad in recent years. The lyrics cleverly subvert typical self-help platitudes, transforming them into something darker and more complex. “Let It Go” perfectly captures adolescent angst and the rebellious spirit of self-discovery, with lines like “No right, no wrong, no rules for me.” It’s a powerful and anthemic song that resonated with audiences worldwide, solidifying its place as a modern Disney classic.
3. I Wanna Be Like You (The Jungle Book, 1967)
There’s a strong argument to be made that the Sherman Brothers (Robert and Richard Sherman) deserve to be mentioned alongside songwriting legends like Lennon and McCartney or Bacharach and David. “I Wanna Be Like You” from The Jungle Book is prime evidence of their genius. This burst of age-defying joy is beautifully written and infectiously energetic. It was also subtly subversive for its time, depicting evolution in a playful way during a period when teaching it was still controversial in some US states. “I Wanna Be Like You” is a timeless and exuberant song that embodies the sheer joy of Disney music.
2. Circle of Life (The Lion King, 1994)
While “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” won an Oscar, “Circle of Life” from The Lion King arguably deserved the accolade even more. No Disney film opens with greater spectacle than The Lion King, and “Circle of Life” perfectly matches that grandeur. Elton John and Tim Rice’s song possesses a unique blend of epic scale and subtle melancholy. The lyric “There’s more to do than can ever be done” hints at a deeper emotional complexity beneath the soaring melody, giving the song a real emotional pull. “Circle of Life” is a breathtaking and powerful opening number that sets the stage for the entire film.
1. When You Wish Upon a Star (Pinocchio, 1940)
Disney’s quintessential theme tune, “When You Wish Upon a Star” from Pinocchio, is the studio’s equivalent of “Over the Rainbow.” It’s a song from a children’s film that transcended its original context to become a cornerstone of the Great American Songbook. Understandably so: nothing about “When You Wish Upon a Star” inherently suggests it’s solely for children. The lyrics, penned by Ned Washington (also known for “The Nearness of You” and “Wild Is the Wind”), are sophisticated and thoughtful: “Fate is kind – she brings to those that love the sweet fulfilment of your secret longing.” A song about yearning and hope, possibly even an allegory for prayer, “When You Wish Upon a Star” established the gold standard for Disney songs. It’s a timeless masterpiece that transcends its animated origins, embodying the enduring magic and emotional depth of Disney music at its finest.
