Whether you’ve watched every single Disney animated movie or haven’t seen even one, you’ve likely encountered the music that has become a cornerstone of American, and global, culture. Since the debut of Disney’s first full-length animated feature, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, in 1937, these songs have taken countless forms, from lighthearted tunes about tidying up to powerful ballads exploring the fundamental human desire for something more. Sung by everyone from groups of vultures to menacing sea witches and swashbuckling pirates, Disney songs have profoundly impacted the very fabric of popular music. With the upcoming theatrical release of Moana 2 on November 27th, the 63rd film from Walt Disney Animation Studios, the timeless question resurfaces: What truly is the greatest Disney song of all time?
To tackle this highly subjective question, we considered several key factors. These include how effectively the songs advance the plot and develop characters, their musical and lyrical quality, their impact on broader pop culture, how well they have endured over time, and that elusive earworm quality (yes, we’re talking about “Let It Go”). We also made sure to include some overlooked gems deserving of rediscovery. Notably, this list focuses exclusively on songs from the 63 feature films produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios, excluding Pixar and Disney live-action movies. You can find a comprehensive list of these films here.
It’s important to emphasize that there isn’t a single weak song among these selections. From a vast catalog of well over 350 Disney songs, these are the 50 finest, alongside a collection of honorable mentions that narrowly missed making the final cut. Each song has played a significant role in cementing Disney’s global cultural influence, extending far beyond its identity as just an animation studio. But ultimately, only one song can claim the title of the greatest Disney song of all time. Let’s dive into the countdown.
50. Everything is Honey – Winnie the Pooh (2011)
Winnie the Pooh’s unwavering love for honey is a defining trait, and “Everything is Honey” gives it a wonderfully whimsical musical treatment. This dreamlike song beautifully captures Pooh’s honey obsession, depicting a world where everything he touches transforms into honey. The song’s smooth, mellow arrangement creates a delightful, dreamlike atmosphere, perfectly conveying Pooh’s boundless joy at the prospect of infinite honey. The accompanying animation is the perfect cherry, or rather, honey, on top.
49. Lost in the Woods – Frozen 2 (2019)
“Lost in the Woods” often gets overshadowed by Elsa’s powerhouse numbers in Frozen 2, but Kristoff’s solo moment is undeniably the funniest highlight of the sequel. While Jonathan Groff’s vocal talents were surprisingly underutilized in the first Frozen, this song more than compensates, delivering a hilarious and catchy send-up of 80s power ballads. It’s both ridiculously silly and genuinely memorable.
48. Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride – Lilo and Stitch (2002)
“Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride,” performed by Hawaiian artists Mark Kealiʻi Hoʻomalu and the Kamehameha Schools Children’s Chorus, encapsulates the unique charm and spirit of Lilo & Stitch. Though Lilo & Stitch isn’t a traditional musical, this song perfectly embodies its heartwarming and summery vibes. It’s the kind of tune that can warm you up during the coldest winter days and inspire you to hit the waves with your surfboard when summer arrives. It’s a vibrant celebration of Hawaiian culture and the joy of summer.
47. I’ve Got a Dream – Tangled (2010)
“I’ve Got a Dream” answers a question you probably never thought to ask: what do those intimidating patrons at the Snuggly Duckling tavern dream of? This song cleverly plays with expectations, revealing that appearances can be deceiving and that everyone, even seemingly tough individuals, harbors dreams. It’s a pivotal moment for Rapunzel (Mandy Moore, who sings a brief but impactful part of the song), marking her growing confidence in her decision to leave her tower and seek answers to lifelong questions. It’s a fun and surprisingly touching ensemble piece.
46. Heigh-Ho – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
The cultural impact of “Heigh-Ho” is undeniable. This iconic song has resonated for generations, becoming synonymous with work and commutes for many. We all need a song to power through those long workdays, and “Heigh-Ho,” with its cheerful melody and delightful whistling interludes, makes the daily grind a whole lot more bearable. It’s a testament to the enduring power of a simple, catchy tune.
45. Best of Friends – The Fox and the Hound (1981)
Pearl Bailey’s warm, soulful vocals in “Best of Friends” beautifully depict an unlikely friendship facing societal barriers. The song, sung from the perspective of Big Mama, carries a poignant undercurrent of melancholy, foreshadowing the eventual separation of Tod and Copper. The lyrics are simple yet deeply moving: “If only the world wouldn’t get in the way / If only people would just let you play” speaks not only to Tod and Copper’s bond but to the universal longing for uncomplicated joy and connection.
44. Strangers Like Me – Tarzan (1999)
Phil Collins’s contributions to Disney’s Tarzan are transformative, elevating the entire film with his remarkable songwriting. “Strangers Like Me” is a prime example of his genius. Collins’ powerful cry of “I wanna know / Can you show me” is incredibly fun to sing along to (making it an underrated karaoke gem). The song leans more towards pure pop than many classic Disney hits, characteristic of the entire Tarzan soundtrack. Few artists master the art of crafting emotionally resonant pop music quite like Phil Collins.
43. You Can Fly! You Can Fly! You Can Fly! – Peter Pan (1953)
The captivating blend of male and female harmonies, combined with whimsical and heartwarming lyrics (“He flew!” exclaims Michael Darling in amazement), has solidified the enduring appeal of “You Can Fly!” for decades. Set against one of Disney’s most iconic sequences, as Peter Pan and the Darling children soar through the London skies, even landing atop Big Ben, the song truly embodies childhood dreams. It’s pure cinematic magic.
42. We Know the Way – Moana (2016)
This collaboration between Lin-Manuel Miranda and Opetaia Foa’i marks a crucial turning point for Moana (Auli’i Cravalho). “We Know the Way” accompanies the scene where Moana discovers the voyaging canoes of her ancestors, revealing a forgotten history of exploration in stark contrast to her island’s current isolation. The song is powerfully uplifting as Moana connects with her heritage, and the multilingual lyrics – in English, Samoan, and Tokelauan – ignite a desire for adventure and oceanic exploration.
41. Out There – The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
“Out There” has surprisingly become a popular meme format on TikTok, but beyond its internet fame, it’s a deeply moving song. It captures the yearning to break free from limitations and find belonging in a world that rejects you. Quasimodo’s hopeful yet melancholic lyrics, “All my life I memorize their faces / Knowing them as they will never know me,” are heartbreaking, while “What I’d dare / Just to live one day out there” expresses a powerful longing for acceptance. The dramatic drums at the song’s climax are guaranteed to evoke strong emotions.
40. Once Upon a Dream – Sleeping Beauty (1959)
Sleeping Beauty may not delve deeply into Aurora’s personality, but “Once Upon a Dream” beautifully reveals her romantic and wistful nature. The song introduces Prince Phillip in a charmingly unexpected way, and their dance is as dreamy and playful as their initial interaction. “Once Upon a Dream” perfectly captures the fairytale romance at the heart of Sleeping Beauty.
39. The Family Madrigal – Encanto (2021)
While “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” became the unexpected breakout hit from Encanto, “The Family Madrigal” is arguably even more enjoyable. This song cleverly delivers exposition in a delightful way, as Mirabel (Stephanie Beatriz) enthusiastically introduces her family and their magical gifts, all while subtly highlighting her own lack of powers. The rapid-fire lyrics, vocal dexterity, and the catchy chorus of children asking “What about Mirabel?” make this a quintessential Lin-Manuel Miranda earworm, perfectly setting the stage for the enchanting world of Encanto.
38. Love is an Open Door – Frozen (2013)
“Love is an Open Door” is a clever villain song disguised as a cheerful duet. It’s a funny and sincere number that playfully mocks the trope of instant love in fairy tales. Kristen Bell and Santino Fontana deliver flawless harmonies, and the lyrics, like “We finish each other’s / Sandwiches / That’s what I was gonna say!” are as delightfully absurd as the idea of marrying someone on the same day you meet them. It’s a witty and memorable take on romantic tropes.
37. Mother Knows Best – Tangled (2010)
If passive-aggression were a superpower, Mother Gothel (voiced by Donna Murphy) would be the most formidable Disney villain. Alan Menken’s music for “Mother Knows Best” is intentionally soft and soothing, while Glenn Slater’s lyrics masterfully convey Gothel’s manipulative and toxic personality. Lines like, “Sloppy, underdressed, immature, clumsy / Please, they’ll eat you up alive,” perfectly illustrate the damaging nature of unbalanced and abusive relationships.
36. Go The Distance – Hercules (1997)
The “I Want” song is a staple of Broadway and the Disney Renaissance, where a character expresses their longing for something missing in their life. “Go the Distance,” from Hercules, is a classic example of this trope. As Hercules (Tate Donovan) discovers his divine heritage, the song becomes an emotionally stirring anthem about finding one’s place in the world. The powerful orchestration and soaring melody make it a truly inspiring Disney song.
35. Cruella De Vil – 101 Dalmatians (1961)
Cruella De Vil is such an iconic villain that she is unique in Disney history for getting her own theme song before she even appears on screen. The lyrics (sung by Bill Lee as Roger) are few but perfectly cutting: “You’ve come to realize / You’ve seen her kind of eyes / Watching you from underneath a rock” is a scathing character assassination in song form. The smooth jazz arrangement further elevates “Cruella De Vil,” making it a sophisticated and unforgettable villain theme.
34. Love – Robin Hood (1973)
“Love,” from Robin Hood, is a surprisingly overlooked Disney song that was nominated for an Oscar. Sung by Nancy Adams, wife of lyricist Floyd Huddleston, this emotional centerpiece of Robin Hood is a dreamy, swooning ballad. It evokes a feeling of drifting down a gentle stream, with particularly poignant lyrics: “Life is brief / But when it’s gone / Love goes on and on.” It’s a beautiful and underappreciated gem in the Disney songbook.
33. The World’s Greatest Criminal Mind – The Great Mouse Detective (1986)
Speaking of underappreciated, The Great Mouse Detective often doesn’t receive enough recognition for revitalizing Disney animation in the mid-1980s. The film also features a fantastic villain song, “The World’s Greatest Criminal Mind.” The lyrics cleverly highlight Ratigan’s (Vincent Price) ruthlessness (“Worse than the widows and orphans you drowned”) while his bumbling henchmen enthusiastically celebrate his supposed brilliance. It’s a campy, silly, and thoroughly enjoyable villain anthem that deserves a spot on any Disney playlist.
32. Ev’rybody Wants to Be a Cat – The Aristocats (1970)
While many Disney songs rely on a certain level of predictability, “Ev’rybody Wants to Be a Cat,” written by Floyd Huddleston and Al Rinker, breaks the mold. Although some outdated racial stereotypes detract slightly, the song’s jazzy, psychedelic, and unpredictable nature is electrifying. It’s both catchy and surprising, showcasing Disney’s capacity for creative innovation even during the studio’s less celebrated 1970s period.
31. Can You Feel the Love Tonight – The Lion King (1994)
“Can You Feel the Love Tonight” masterfully blends the comedic antics of Timon and Pumbaa with genuine romanticism, creating a dazzling musical moment. The song beautifully captures Simba and Nala falling in love, one of the most emotionally resonant scenes in The Lion King. The Oscar-winning Elton John and Tim Rice song became a massive crossover hit, and for good reason – it’s a timeless love ballad.
30. Under the Sea – The Little Mermaid (1989)
The collaboration between composer Alan Menken and lyricist Howard Ashman was a stroke of genius for Disney, resulting in some of the studio’s most beloved songs for The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin. “Under the Sea,” an Oscar winner, exemplifies their brilliance. In the song, Sebastian the crab tries to convince Ariel to stay in the ocean. Most importantly, “Under the Sea” is incredibly fun and inventive. Lines like “When the Sardine / Begin the beguine / It’s music to me” and “What do they got? A lot of sand / We got a hot crustacean band” are particularly clever and memorable.
29. Friends on the Other Side – Princess and the Frog (2008)
Randy Newman and Voodoo might seem like an unlikely pairing, but “Friends on the Other Side” proves Newman’s versatility as a songwriter. The song effectively establishes Dr. Facilier (Keith David) as a charismatic manipulator, boasting “I got Voodoo / I got hoodoo / I got things I ain’t even tried!” The already excellent song is further enhanced by stunning visuals, culminating in an explosion of color and Voodoo imagery that ranks among Disney’s most visually impressive sequences.
28. The Bare Necessities – The Jungle Book (1967)
“The Bare Necessities” is a song about appreciating life’s simple pleasures and discovering unexpected joys in the things we already have. Phil Harris’s laid-back vocals as Baloo are soothing and wise, and Mowgli learns a valuable life lesson. The song’s effortless charm, with trumpets and clarinets creating a joyful and relaxing atmosphere, is irresistible. In our increasingly complex world, the reminder to appreciate the bare necessities is truly valuable.
27. The Wonderful Thing About Tiggers – The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977)
This is arguably the most relentlessly cheerful Disney song ever created. “The Wonderful Thing About Tiggers” is a perfect introduction to Tigger (Paul Winchell) and his bouncy, energetic personality. From his rubber top to his springy bottom, Tigger’s self-description perfectly matches the song’s infectious energy: “Bouncy, trouncy, flouncy, pouncy, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun!” It proves that pure musical magic can be created in just half a minute.
26. How Far I’ll Go – Moana (2016)
“How Far I’ll Go” is notably more introspective than most “I Want” songs. Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) grapples with inner conflict, torn between her love for her family and her undeniable urge to explore beyond her island. Auli’i Cravalho delivers a captivating vocal performance, conveying wistfulness, hope, and excitement in equal measure. It’s a powerful exploration of self-discovery and following your inner voice.
25. Gaston – Beauty and the Beast (1991)
Most villain songs focus on the villain’s evilness or power, but “Gaston” stands out by being purely about Gaston’s (Richard White) inflated ego and obsession with himself. It’s an unapologetic celebration of narcissism. Ashman’s witty lyrics are so catchy that you might even find yourself wanting to sing about Gaston’s “expectorating” skills. It’s a hilarious and memorable villain song.
24. Someday My Prince Will Come – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
Disney’s first true love song, “Someday My Prince Will Come,” remains one of its most enduring. Snow White’s (Adriana Caselloti) delicate, high-pitched vocals are both technically impressive and emotionally touching. The scene of the dwarfs watching her sing with wonder is incredibly sweet. Despite facing danger and hardship, Snow White still holds onto her dream of finding happiness and love.
23. Beauty and the Beast – Beauty and the Beast (1991)
Menken and Ashman’s romantic songwriting reached its peak with the title song from Beauty and the Beast. Sung with warmth and tenderness by Mrs. Potts (Angela Lansbury), “Beauty and the Beast” is a sumptuous and moving ballad about finding love in unexpected places. The song is accompanied by some of Disney’s most breathtaking animation, seamlessly blending 2D and 3D elements as Belle and the Beast dance in the grand ballroom. It’s a classic Disney love song, perfectly capturing the film’s central theme.
22. Mine, Mine, Mine – Pocahontas (1995)
“Mine, Mine, Mine” is an underrated villain song that deserves more recognition. Governor Ratcliffe (David Ogden Stiers) is portrayed as a worshipper of capitalism, and his song is a ruthless ode to greed and the pursuit of wealth. Stiers’ performance is pitch-perfect, capturing Ratcliffe’s smugness, arrogance, and ruthlessness, yet making him oddly entertaining to watch. It’s a clever and catchy villain song with a satirical edge.
21. Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo – Cinderella (1950)
“Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo” is almost entirely made up of nonsensical lyrics, yet it’s so infectious that you’ll be singing “Salagadoola menchicka boola” without even realizing it. Verna Felton’s (Fairy Godmother) voice acting talent is on full display, and “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo” is a charming showcase of her unique charisma and whimsical nature. It’s a pure dose of Disney magic.
20. Bella Notte – Lady and the Tramp (1955)
One of Disney’s most iconic scenes unfolds during “Bella Notte,” as Lady and the Tramp share a plate of spaghetti. This is the pivotal moment where they fall in love, and “Bella Notte” is crucial to making this romantic connection believable. Sung in the style of Italian pop by George Givot and Bill Thompson, the song is achingly romantic. The entire emotional core of Lady and the Tramp relies on making the dogs’ love story convincing, and “Bella Notte” plays a vital role in achieving this.
19. Almost There – Princess and the Frog (2008)
While Disney has largely shifted away from traditional hand-drawn animation, The Princess and the Frog makes a strong case for its continued relevance. Tiana (Anika Noni Rose) sings “Almost There,” a classic “I Want” song about her dream of opening her own restaurant. The song launches into a beautifully animated art deco sequence depicting Tiana’s aspirations. Randy Newman’s songwriting is at its finest here, creating an optimistic jazz number with subtle hints of melancholy, as Tiana sings about a goal she knows will be incredibly challenging to achieve.
18. I Won’t Say (I’m in Love) – Hercules (1997)
Disney love songs are typically grand and sweeping ballads, making “I Won’t Say (I’m in Love)” a refreshing change of pace. Lyricist David Zippel brilliantly contrasts Megara’s (Susan Egan) denial of her feelings with the Muses’ exuberant celebration of her love for Hercules. The song’s arrangement echoes classic doo-wop and comes closest to capturing the spirit of Motown within the Disney song catalog. It’s a fun, sassy, and uniquely structured love song.
17. A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes – Cinderella (1950)
Cinderella (Ilene Woods) has every reason to be pessimistic. Trapped in her own home and forced to serve her cruel stepmother and stepsisters, her life is filled with hardship. Yet, “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” is overflowing with unwavering optimism. The lyrics, “No matter how your heart is grieving / If you keep on believing / A dream that you wish will come true,” are incredibly powerful, inspiring hope even in the darkest of circumstances. The song reveals the source of Cinderella’s resilience – her unwavering belief in her dreams.
16. Be Prepared – The Lion King (1994)
“Be Prepared” is strikingly brutal in its depiction of Scar’s (Jeremy Irons) sinister plan to usurp Mufasa and seize control of Pride Rock. Scar masterfully manipulates the desperate hyenas with nothing but his sharp wit and empty promises. Tim Rice’s lyrics vividly illustrate how vulnerable individuals can be drawn to an evil that promises them prosperity, regardless of its hollowness. It’s a chilling and powerful villain song.
15. Be Our Guest – Beauty and the Beast (1991)
“Be Our Guest” practically begs to be a grand Broadway production number, which it became when the stage adaptation premiered in 1994. Led by Lumiere (Jerry Orbach), the song is a delightful ensemble piece, blending humor and complexity in its lyrics (“Beef ragout, cheese soufflé / Pie and pudding ‘en flambe’ / We’ll prepare and serve with flair a culinary cabaret”). The song’s emotional range, from joyous to frantic and everything in between, is captivating. It’s so entertaining that you can almost understand why Belle might be somewhat okay with being held captive in the Beast’s castle.
14. Friend Like Me – Aladdin (1992)
The Disney Renaissance (1989-1999) saw a surge in the casting of celebrated comedians in key sidekick roles. Robin Williams’ performance as the Genie in Aladdin is perhaps the most universally beloved. His standout moment is “Friend Like Me,” an incredibly funny and essential big-band style number. In the song, the Genie explains to Aladdin the full extent of his wish-granting powers, setting the stage for Aladdin’s transformation.
13. Let It Go – Frozen (2013)
For parents, even the phrase “Let It Go” might trigger a sense of exhaustion due to its ubiquity. However, despite its overplay, “Let It Go,” written by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, is undeniably a fantastic song. Elsa (Idina Menzel) has spent her life suppressing her true self, but “Let It Go” marks a pivotal moment of liberation. She belts out a triumphant anthem about embracing inner power and self-acceptance. The song’s arrangement is exquisite, and Idina Menzel’s Broadway-caliber performance is unforgettable.
12. Belle – Beauty and the Beast (1991)
Belle (Paige O’Hara) is an outsider in her provincial town, her thoughts and dreams far exceeding the confines of her surroundings. Ashman’s lyrics cleverly balance a large cast of characters, efficiently establishing Belle’s daily life and the reasons for her alienation. “Belle” is Broadway-caliber musical storytelling, perfectly illustrating why Belle, a bookish dreamer, has become such a cherished Disney princess. It’s a song that resonates deeply with anyone who dares to dream beyond the limitations of their birthplace.
11. Love Is A Song – Bambi (1942)
“Love Is A Song,” used as the opening credits theme for Bambi, may be brief, but it perfectly captures the artistic essence of the film. While Bambi is undeniably heartbreaking, “Love Is A Song” maintains an unwavering sense of hope at its core (“Hope may die, yet love’s beautiful music / Comes each day like the dawn”). It’s a poignant and beautiful song that sets the tone for the entire movie.
10. I’ll Make A Man Out of You – Mulan (1998)
“Let’s get down to business, to defeat the Huns” is the iconic opening line of Mulan’s “I’ll Make A Man Out of You,” and the song’s energy only intensifies from there. Donny Osmond, the singing voice of Li Shang, delivers a powerhouse performance in this motivational anthem. Set against a dynamic training montage, “I’ll Make A Man Out of You” is one of cinema’s most rousing hype songs. If Rocky had trained to this, he would have been invincible.
9. Baby Mine – Dumbo (1941)
Even amidst unimaginable cruelty, love can still flourish. In Dumbo, despite being imprisoned, Dumbo’s mother reaches out to comfort him with her trunk through the bars. The scene starkly contrasts with images of other animals peacefully sleeping with their parents, highlighting Dumbo’s isolation. “Baby Mine,” nominated for an Oscar in 1942, is a song that doesn’t just tug at your heartstrings, it shatters your heart.
8. When You Wish Upon A Star – Pinocchio (1940)
Written by Leigh Harline and Ned Washington, “When You Wish Upon A Star” has become the definitive Disney song. A snippet of it has accompanied the opening of every Disney film since 1985. It’s unapologetically sentimental, and Cliff Edwards’ (Jiminy Cricket) earnest vocals perfectly suit the iconic lyrics that have come to symbolize Disney’s core values: “When you wish upon a star / Makes no difference who you are / Anything your heart desires / Will come to you.” It’s a timeless anthem of hope and dreams.
7. Colors of the Wind – Pocahontas (1995)
“Colors of the Wind” represents a significant evolution for Disney princesses. While previous princesses often fell in love quickly, Pocahontas challenges John Smith’s ignorance and demands respect and understanding. “But still I cannot see / If the savage one is me / How can there be so much that you don’t know?” she sings, questioning Smith’s perspective. Menken and Stephen Schwartz’s song, sung by Judy Kuhn, is rhapsodic, accompanied by breathtakingly painterly and experimental visuals. This Oscar and Grammy-winning song is a powerful statement about respecting nature and different cultures.
6. A Place Called Slaughter Race – Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018)
In Ralph Breaks the Internet, Disney’s most self-aware film, Vanellope Von Schweetz discovers her true calling in the chaotic and violent video game Slaughter Race. Surprisingly, this parody song becomes genuinely heartfelt. The lyrics by Phil Johnston and Tom MacDougall are both wickedly funny and surprisingly poignant (“I’m rhyming / My spirits climbing / As I’m called through this fog of mace / To this place called Slaughter Race”). It explores the universal desire to belong, even if that belonging is found in the most unexpected places. “A Place Called Slaughter Race” masterfully balances parody and sincerity, functioning both as a humorous send-up and a genuinely powerful “I Want” song.
5. Poor Unfortunate Souls – The Little Mermaid (1989)
Pat Carroll delivers a career-defining performance as the sea witch Ursula, a cunning and manipulative villain who will say anything to achieve her goals. “Poor Unfortunate Souls” sets the entire plot of The Little Mermaid in motion, as Ursula persuades Ariel (Jodi Benson) to trade her voice for legs. Carroll’s performance is brimming with charisma, making Ursula incredibly compelling. It’s almost believable that Ariel would agree to such a dangerous bargain after hearing Ursula sing so persuasively. “Don’t underestimate the importance of body language!” is arguably the most exhilarating line to sing in any context, especially karaoke. “Poor Unfortunate Souls” is campy, vampy, sinister, and utterly addictive. Evil has never been this much fun.
4. Circle of Life – The Lion King (1994)
Has the image of a sunrise ever evoked more magic than in The Lion King? That’s the film’s opening image, and the opening of “Circle of Life,” composed by Elton John and Tim Rice and performed by Lebo M. and Carmen Twillie. In many ways, it has become the quintessential contemporary Disney song, an instantly recognizable earworm that is always welcome. The combination of the music and animation sends chills down your spine. “Circle of Life” is more than just a captivating opening number; it’s a sensational, transportive experience that immerses you in the heart of the African savanna.
3. Hellfire – The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
The Hunchback of Notre Dame is undoubtedly Disney’s darkest animated film, and “Hellfire” plunges into pitch blackness. It’s a crucial moment in the film, revealing Judge Frollo’s (Tom Hulce) tormented motivations. He is consumed by uncontrollable lust, a remarkably mature and complex theme for a Disney movie. Frollo laments his desire for Esmeralda (“This burning desire / Is turning me to sin”). While Disney often explores love, “Hellfire” is a powerful, operatic exploration of pure, seething hatred and a scathing critique of religious hypocrisy. There is nothing else quite like it in Disney history, and the studio has never ventured into such dark territory again. “Choose me or your pyre / Be mine or you will burn” might be the bleakest and most unsettling couplet in the entire Disney songbook.
2. Part of Your World – The Little Mermaid (1989)
“I don’t see how a world that makes such wonderful things could be bad,” Ariel muses before launching into “Part of Your World,” a deeply expressive song about the universal yearning for belonging and self-discovery. While Ariel is surrounded by beautiful objects, she craves a deeper connection that material possessions cannot provide. Ashman’s lyrics are profoundly emotional, and many believe he poured his own feelings of being ostracized into “Part of Your World” (Ashman was a gay man who later died from AIDS-related complications). A powerful anthem for the marginalized and those who feel like outsiders, “Part of Your World” is a rallying cry for anyone longing to belong: “When’s it my turn / Wouldn’t I love, love to explore that shore up above? / Out of the sea / Wish I could be / Part of that world.” The partnership of Menken and Ashman defined the Disney Renaissance and shaped Disney memories for countless people, and “Part of Your World” stands as one of their crowning achievements.
1. You’ll Be In My Heart – Tarzan (1999)
Phil Collins’ ballad “You’ll Be In My Heart” became a crossover phenomenon, winning the Oscar for Best Original Song and reaching the Billboard Hot 100 charts. Collins’ vocals are incredibly moving (he wrote the song as a lullaby for his daughter Lily), and the song’s raw vulnerability and unwavering sentimentality make it an emotional powerhouse. Collins’ powerful declaration, “You’ll be here in my heart,” is guaranteed to bring tears to your eyes. However, the bridge, with lines like “When destiny calls you / You must be strong / I may not be with you / But you’ve got to hold on,” is truly heartbreaking. For anyone who has experienced a deep bond – with a parent, friend, pet, or lover – and felt that bond change or face separation, “You’ll Be In My Heart” resonates deeply and powerfully. It’s sweet, sincere, profoundly emotional, and deeply affecting. In essence, it encapsulates everything that makes Disney, Disney, making it the greatest Disney song of all time.
Honorable mentions: A Whole New World (Aladdin, 1992), Into the Unknown (Frozen II, 2019), Little Wonders (Meet the Robinsons, 2007), Savages (Pocahontas, 1995), Why Should I Worry (Oliver and Company, 1986), He’s A Tramp (Lady and the Tramp, 1955), Little April Shower (Bambi, 1942), In A World of My Own (Alice in Wonderland, 1951), So This Is Love (Cinderella, 1950), Son of Man (Tarzan, 1999).
