The 10 Best Disney Songs of All Time
Disney movies are jam-packed with incredible music.
Seriously, name one Disney film that you can watch without humming along (or belting the lyrics) to one or more of the iconic tunes. Trick question, there are none.
(Pocahontas via Walt Disney Pictures)
Although I love every Disney song, there are always the beloved tunes that stand above the rest. Since I've dubbed myself a Disney expert, I compiled a list of the 10 best Disney songs of all time (in no particular order, because they're just too hard to rank). I will not be taking questions.
1. 'Hakuna Matata' – The Lion King
"Hakuna Matata" is easily one of the most iconic Disney tunes ever made. Not only is it a perfect introduction to Timon and Pumba, it's also just plain fun. Plus, it gave me my motto for the rest of my life. What can I say? I'm just trying to channel my inner Pumba.
2. 'Kiss the Girl' – The Little Mermaid
There are plenty of amazing songs in The Little Mermaid, which makes it especially difficult to choose a favorite. However, "Kiss the Girl" stands just a hair above the rest. Sebastian's spirited attempt to make Ariel's dreams come true is touching, especially since he spends most of the movie trying to convince her that being a mermaid is the best. There have been plenty covers of this song over the years, but the original will always be the best.
3. 'A Whole New World' – Aladdin
Growing up, Aladdin was easily my favorite Disney movie, and I think I can owe part of that to this iconic tune. "A Whole New World" is endlessly romantic. It captures the excitement and adventure of new love in a beautiful song that you can't help but sing along to. It will never lose its appeal, no matter how many years might pass.
4. 'I'll Make a Man Out of You' – Mulan
"I'll Make a Man Out of You" may not be considered a super iconic Disney tune, but I disagree. In fact, if you don't love this powerful song, you're just plain wrong. Not only is it super catchy, it's also the moment in which we see Mulan gain her power and figure out how to exist in the army. She has a rough start, but by the end, she easily outperforms the other men. I'm obsessed with this track, and you should be, too.
5. 'I Won't Say (I'm in Love)' – Hercules
Meg is the most underrated Disney love interest, mostly because she's so relatable. As a strong, independent woman, Meg struggles to let Hercules into her heart. This song captures that back-and-forth we've all experienced of caring for someone, but struggling to let your walls down enough to let them in. It reveals a softer, sweeter side of Meg without playing into the typical Disney trope of falling head over heels for the first man you meet.
6. 'Colors of the Wind' – Pocahontas
If I had to pick an all-time favorite Disney song (a nearly impossible choice), "Colors of the Wind" might be it. While this movie might be lacking in historical accuracy, I can still appreciate the message behind this tune. It's a powerful reminder that simply believing in a certain path doesn't make it the right one. Pocahontas exposes John Smith to a world he never knew with a track that almost always brings tears to my eyes.
7. 'Beauty and the Beast' – Beauty and the Beast
Disney is known for its love songs, and "Beauty and the Beast" is one of the best. It's a warm-hearted depiction of the start of a relationship that's the perfect backdrop for the moment that Belle and the Beast truly start to fall for one another. Considering it's one of the most iconic moments in any Disney film, it has to be included in the top ten best songs of all time.
8. 'How Far I'll Go' – Moana
Although Moana is a newer addition to the Disney world, it has some of the best music we've ever seen in a Disney movie. Every song on this track is beautiful, but "How Far I'll Go" is especially touching. Moana's struggle to stay true to her family and to explore her own desires is one we've all experienced. Auli'i Cravalho's voice carries the tune beautifully, building and becoming more powerful as Moana makes the choice to pursue what she wants, instead of what her father wants.
9. 'Let It Go' – Frozen
"Let It Go" was undeniably overplayed. However, that's only because it was so good. Idina Menzel's voice is iconic and beautiful, but it's the message behind the song that really captured hearts and souls everywhere. It's all about embracing your inner power, free from the expectations of other people that hold you back. Plus, there's nothing better than watching Elsa build an ice castle and transform into the gorgeous queen she is by the end of this tune.
10. 'Can You Feel the Love Tonight' – The Lion King
I'm sorry to include another song from The Lion King, but it had to be done. Written by Elton John, the song captures a universal feeling of love that both children and adults can find relatable. Although I love a cheesy Disney tune, this track is anything but. It's sweet, sentimental and tear-inducing—everything I want out of a Disney love song.
Looking for the perfect way to show off your Disney love? Click HERE for 12 Disney song lyrics that make perfect everyday Instagram captions.