The Best Disney Songs have captured the hearts of generations with their unforgettable melodies and inspiring lyrics.
Each song brings to life the magic and adventure of Disney, leaving fans humming along and feeling uplifted.
From the enchanting tunes of classic princesses to the empowering anthems of modern heroes, these songs tell stories that resonate with all ages.
Whether they make us laugh, cry, or feel brave, the Best Disney Songs are more than just music—they’re an unforgettable part of the Disney legacy.
Dive in and rediscover the songs that make Disney so magical!
1. “Under the Sea” by Samuel E. Wright (1989) – Perfect Pop Disney Song
About this song:
- Album: The Little Mermaid: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
- Released: 1989
- Artist: Samuel E. Wright
- Genre: Pop, Calypso, show tune, reggae
- Key Lyric: “Under the sea, under the sea. Darling, it’s better down where it’s wetter.”
“Under the Sea” is one of Disney’s most beloved songs from The Little Mermaid, adding vibrant Caribbean flair to the film.
Written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, it introduces audiences to an underwater world of colorful sea creatures.
The song, released in 1989, symbolizes the carefree and joyful life “under the sea” compared to the human world above.
With its catchy rhythm and cheerful lyrics, it earned an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Celebrated for its message of contentment and simplicity, “Under the Sea” remains a Disney classic cherished by all ages.
2. “Be Our Guest” by Angela Lansbury (1991) – Best Show Tune Disney Song
About this song:
- Album: Beauty and the Beast: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
- Released: 1991
- Artist: Jerry Orbach, Angela Lansbury, and Chorus
- Genre: Show tune
- Key Lyric: “Try the grey stuff, it’s delicious. Don’t believe me? Ask the dishes.”
“Be Our Guest” invites viewers into the enchanted world of Beauty and the Beast, where objects come to life in a lavish display.
The song, written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, became a highlight of the 1991 film.
This musical number reflects Disney’s dedication to combining storytelling with theatricality and magic.
Its upbeat, welcoming tone conveys the theme of hospitality and kindness amid Belle’s uncertain journey.
Still iconic, “Be Our Guest” is celebrated as one of Disney’s most enchanting showpieces.
3. “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” by Joseph Williams (1994) – Recommended Pop Disney Song
About this song:
- Album: The Lion King: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
- Released: 1994
- Artist: Joseph Williams, Sally Dworsky
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “Can you feel the love tonight? The peace the evening brings.”
“Can You Feel the Love Tonight” is a beautiful ballad from The Lion King that speaks to love, harmony, and connection.
Composed by Elton John with lyrics by Tim Rice, it graced the film’s release in 1994 with its heartfelt melody.
This song highlights the bond between Simba and Nala, symbolizing reconciliation with one’s destiny.
The track earned an Academy Award and Grammy, solidifying its place as one of Disney’s most celebrated love songs.
Its timeless message of love and unity makes “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” an unforgettable Disney classic.
4. “Gaston” by Richard White (1991) – Awesome Waltz Song
About this song:
- Album: Beauty and the Beast
- Released: 1991
- Artist: Richard White, Jesse Corti, Walt Disney
- Genre: Waltz
- Key Lyric: “Gosh, it disturbs me to see you, Gaston. Looking so down in the dumps.”
“Gaston” offers a humorous look at the over-the-top personality of the film’s antagonist in Beauty and the Beast.
Written by Ashman and Menken, it showcases Gaston’s pride and vanity through a catchy, theatrical melody.
This song plays with exaggerated self-confidence, contrasting Gaston’s ego with the film’s themes of inner beauty.
First released in 1991, it captures Disney’s flair for combining humor with character-driven storytelling.
Beloved for its wit, “Gaston” adds a memorable twist to Disney’s tradition of unforgettable character songs.
5. “The Bare Necessities” by Phil Harris (1967) – Remarkable Jazz Disney Song
About this song:
- Album: The Jungle Book
- Released: 1967
- Artist: Phil Harris, Bruce Reitherman
- Genre: Jazz
- Key Lyric: “Look for the bare necessities. The simple bare necessities.”
“The Bare Necessities” from The Jungle Book delivers a message of simplicity and joy through Baloo’s easygoing outlook.
Composed by Terry Gilkyson, it was released in 1967 as part of Disney’s adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale.
This jazz-influenced tune teaches that life’s essentials are all we truly need, blending wisdom with catchy rhythm.
The song’s relaxed, happy vibe reflects the carefree nature of the jungle and Baloo’s character.
An enduring favorite, “The Bare Necessities” encourages generations to embrace simplicity and joy.
6. “Circle of Life” by Lebo M (1994) – Stunning Rock Song
About this song:
- Album: The Lion King: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
- Released: 1994
- Artist: Lebo M, Carmen Twillie
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “From the day we arrive on the planet. And blinking, step into the sun.”
“Circle of Life” opens The Lion King with an unforgettable chant, capturing the majesty of life’s journey.
Composed by Elton John with lyrics by Tim Rice, this powerful anthem highlights themes of unity and renewal.
Recorded in 1994, it symbolizes the natural order, echoing the film’s exploration of life, death, and rebirth.
Its iconic Zulu vocals set a global tone, making it one of Disney’s most internationally recognized songs.
Reflecting on the interconnectedness of all creatures, “Circle of Life” remains a profound piece in Disney’s song repertoire.
7. “Hakuna Matata” by Nathan Lane (1994) – Excellent Reggae Disney Song
About this song:
- Album: The Lion King
- Released: 1994
- Artist: Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella, Jason Weaver and Joseph Williams
- Genre: Reggae
- Key Lyric: “I’m a sensitive soul, though I seem thick-skinned. And it hurt that my friends never stood downwind.”
“Hakuna Matata” brings a carefree philosophy to life, offering young Simba a fresh perspective in The Lion King.
Penned by Elton John and Tim Rice, it embraces a reggae-inspired rhythm that feels as light as the phrase itself.
Debuting in 1994, the song quickly became a favorite, teaching audiences to live without worries.
Its humorous lyrics and memorable beat underscore Disney’s knack for delivering life lessons through catchy tunes.
Celebrated for its uplifting message, “Hakuna Matata” continues to inspire fans with its cheerful spirit.
8. “I Wan’na Be like You (The Monkey Song)” by Louis Prima (1967) – Wonderful Jazz Song
About this song:
- Album: The Jungle Book
- Released: 1967
- Artist: Louis Prima, Bruce Reitherman, Phil Harris
- Genre: Jazz
- Key Lyric: “Now I’m the king of the swingers. Oh, the jungle VIP.”
“I Wan’na Be like You (The Monkey Song)” is a lively jazz piece from Disney’s 1967 film The Jungle Book.
Composed by the Sherman Brothers, it highlights the playful nature of King Louie as he dreams of human qualities.
The song blends jazz with a hint of swing, reflecting Disney’s exploration of new musical styles at the time.
Prima’s performance brought humor and energy, adding a unique personality to King Louie’s character.
Loved for its infectious beat, “I Wan’na Be like You” celebrates individuality while exploring identity and self-expression.
9. “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by Randy Newman (1995) – Ideal Country Disney Song
About this song:
- Album: Toy Story (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
- Released: 1995
- Artist: Randy Newman and Lyle Lovett
- Genre: Country, pop
- Key Lyric: “You’ve got a friend in me. You’ve got troubles, and I’ve got ’em, too.”
“You’ve Got a Friend in Me” captures the warmth of friendship in Toy Story, bringing Woody and Buzz’s bond to life.
Written by Randy Newman, it became the theme song for Pixar’s groundbreaking film, first released in 1995.
With simple yet meaningful lyrics, the song embodies loyalty and support, resonating with audiences of all ages.
Newman’s comforting voice and familiar style give the song a welcoming feel that’s unmistakably heartfelt.
Serving as a testament to lasting friendships, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” continues to be an anthem of loyalty.
10. “Friend Like Me” by Robin Williams (1992) – Amazing Swing Song
About this song:
- Album: Aladdin: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
- Released: 1992
- Artist: Robin Williams
- Genre: Show tune, swing, jazz
- Key Lyric: “Mister Aladdin, sir, have a wish or two or three. I’m on the job, you big nabob.”
“Friend Like Me” showcases the Genie’s exuberant personality and magical powers in Aladdin.
Written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, this 1992 song captures the lively character brought to life by Robin Williams.
The upbeat swing and jazzy tones add a show-stopping element, reflecting Disney’s flair for theatrical musical numbers.
Williams’s unique vocal energy made the Genie one of Disney’s most memorable characters.
With humor and magic, “Friend Like Me” remains an unforgettable Disney song about friendship and fantasy.
Conclusion
The Best Disney Songs remind us why Disney’s magic endures across generations.
These timeless tunes evoke joy, courage, and nostalgia, making each song unforgettable.
As you revisit these classics, may the music inspire and uplift you, capturing the essence of Disney’s enchantment.
Keep singing along and keep the magic alive with the Best Disney Songs forever in your heart!!!