On October 16, 1923 following the bankruptcy of Walt Disney’s first film studio, Laugh-O-Gram Studio, Walt joined his brother Roy in Los Angeles where they would start a new film production business – Disney Brothers Studios. Over the next two years, Walt would make his first series of fully animated films, which featured Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, owned by Universal Pictures. After a financial disagreement, Walt would start his own animation studio and replaced Oswald with a mouse character, formerly known as Mortimer, but now belovedly known as Mickey Mouse. The character debuted in May 1928 with silent film “Plane Crazy” and “The Gallopin’ Gaucho”. “Steamboat Willie” the third short in the Micky Mouse series, became the first post-produced sound cartoon.
The following years, the Disney company, now named Walt Disney Studio would continue to produce both Mickey shorts and “Silly Symphony” cartoon shorts which featured colourful music and whimsical characters. After much success with these short films, Walt wanted to do the impossible and produce a full length animated feature film, despite his brother Roy’s protests. Despite the risk, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” was a massive hit debuting on December 12, 1937 and becoming the highest grossest film at the time.
Over the course of the next nine decades, leadership would change hands multiple times following Walt’s passing. The company expanded into live-action films, a cable network and television shows, theme parks, and much more. Even with the addition of Pixar, Star Wars, Marvel and other properties now living under the same umbrella, we all come back to the animated movies we love created by Walt Disney Animation Studio.
Now what’s one thing (almost) all 60+ Walt Disney Animated movies have in common? Fantastic music! To celebrate 100 years of Disney, and the next 100 to come, Frozen Mouse Fever is counting down the 100 best Disney songs of all time. To be clear this list is strictly music from Walt Disney Animation Studios films. There will be no music from Pixar films (Toy Story, Turning Red, etc.), Disney Channel (High School Musical, Hannah Montana, etc.), live-action movies, Disney Parks (Small World, Grim Grinning Ghosts, etc.) or animated films not under the Walt Disney Animation Studios banner (A Goofy Movie, The Nightmare Before Christmas, etc.).
Now that everything is settled, let’s start belting out some tunes!
100. My Funny Friend and Me – The Emperor’s New Groove
“The Emperor’s New Groove” isn’t known for its music, but this Academy Award nominated song from Sting is definitely a secret gem hidden within all the hits.
99. Look Through My Eyes – Brother Bear
Many don’t realize that Phil Collins contributed to the music of this underrated film, and while it doesn’t slap in the same way as the “Tarzan” soundtrack, this is still a touching tune.
98. Little Wonders – Meet The Robinsons
Another film that’s often forgotten in the Disney canon, Rob Thomas really brings us back to the easy rock days of the 2000s with this jam.
97. I’m Still Here – Treasure Planet
The nostalgic angst this song brings out when listening is exactly the reason it deserves a spot on this list. It may not be a hit but perfectly defines what we love about the early aughts.
96. I Thought I Lost You – Bolt
It may not be Miley Cyrus’ biggest hit but this song with John Travolta definitely deserves more hype. It’s a nice blend of pop and country that captures the sweetness that is “Bolt”.
95. The Backson Song – Winnie the Pooh
During the period of Broadway pop hits being all the rage from Disney, The Backson Song is a nice callback to Disney’s early days with quick and witty lyrics as well as energy that encapsulates each character’s feelings.
94. The Three Caballeros – The Three Caballeros
Not a lot of great things came out of the Wartime Era of Disney, but this catchy song from the greatest band of birds definitely tops the list. It’s an earworm that refuses to leave your head.
93. Baby Mine – Dumbo
It may not be a pop hit, but “Baby Mine” is one of those early Disney songs that immediately has you in the feels. Dumbo and his mom back together – bawling!
92. The Work Song/Mice Chorus – Cinderella
In a film with so many iconic songs, it’s easy to put this one at the top because of the adorable mice and often quoted “Cinderelly”. Yet there are so many bangers and “Work Song” can’t rightfully be placed above the beauty of the others.
91. Zero – Ralph Breaks the Internet
It’s become common place for modern day non-musical Disney films to feature a song from a major recording artist. This one from Imagine Dragons stands out for its catchy pop beat and ability to flow the overall theme of the story.
90. I’m Late – Alice in Wonderland
It might be one of the shortest songs on the list, but it’s too synonymous with Disney storytelling and character development not to be included.
89. A Pirate’s Life – Peter Pan
Another short song that is quintessential Disney at its finest. Could we attribute this classic for giving us Pirates of the Caribbean? The history books say no, but this writer says definitely.
88. Higitus Figitus – The Sword in the Stone
A song that is just absolute nonsense jumbled together. It really shouldn’t be as good as it is but alas it’s just so snappy and memorable.
87. Heffalumps and Woozles – The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Is this song nightmare fuel? Absolutely. However, it’s also incredibly fun and such a critical part of any child’s life who grew up with Pooh and Friends. Beware!
86. The Aristocats – The Aristocats
Opening up the first film to be made without Walt’s influence with this classique is exactly what was needed to make everyone feel tres bien about the future of musical animation.
85. No Way Out – Brother Bear
Perhaps it’s because it fits so well with the heartbreaking scene that takes place alongside it, but this tearjerker is definitely Phil Collins’ best work in “Brother Bear”.
84. A Star is Born – Hercules
The finale song of this fantastic soundtrack may not be in the same level as the rest of “Hercules” music but it still captures the spirit of soul and celebration to get you on your feet.
83. God Help the Outcasts – The Hunchback of Notre Dame
A hauntingly beautiful song that is often overlooked because of its dark themes, Esmeralda’s power ballad is unlike any other female protagonists in Disney lore.
82. The Unbirthday Song – Alice in Wonderland
All of the antics and ridiculousness captured in “Alice in Wonderland” is perfectly encapsulated in what has become such an iconic moment in animation.
81. Lost in the Woods – Frozen II
Does this 80s music video completely take you out of the story of “Frozen II”? Most definitely, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still enjoy the beauty that is Jonathan Groff’s voice.
80. When Can I See You Again? – Wreck-It Ralph
This credit song from Wreck-It Ralph is just pure fun and feels like it could be the theme for an 80s video game. Owl City really delivered on this one.
79. The Silly Song – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Oh what fun it is to be silly. This yodeling hoot is so clever in helping to develop each dwarf beyond their name.
78. Winnie the Pooh – The Many Adventures of Winne the Pooh
An introduction to a character and his friends will never be as melodic and memorable as Winnie the Pooh. All these years later, it remains as cute as ever.
77. The Gospel Truth – Hercules
No narrator will ever match the soulful energy of the Muses. An introduction to Greek Mythology 101 has no right to be this entertaining.
76. A Girl Worth Fighting For – Mulan
Right before the most dramatic piece of the movie, “Mulan” treats us to a snappy little number that provides the motivation for the war, at least for some characters.
75. He Mele No Lilo – Lilo & Stitch
This song sung entirely in Hawaiian is such a bop, and blends perfectly with the visual introduction to Hawaii. Even if you don’t speak the language, you can’t help but try to sing along.
74. Where You Are – Moana
The “Moana” soundtrack is stacked with so many hits. This one may not be the best, but it’s such an uplifting way to introduce our leading lady, her family and the inner conflict she faces.
73. The Family Madrigal – Encanto
The energy Mirabel brings to introducing her family and their gifts is unmatched. She is so infectious and charming, it’s hard not to immediately love her and this catchy tune.
72. When We’re Human – The Princess and the Frog
Blending the classic Disney music feel with some of jazz’s greatest riffs, this number from Luis, Prince Naveen and Tiana is just a sampling of the greatness “The Princess and the Frog” delivers.
71. Mother Knows Best – Tangled
Alan Menken continues his tradition of making classic villain songs with this Tony Award worthy number. There is so much sass in this particular number you can’t not love it.
70. Immortals – Big Hero 6
Man, does Fall Out Boy sure know how to pump us up during our superheroes creating their costumes and finding their powers montage!
69. Lead the Way – Raya and the Last Dragon
Everything about Raya is underrated, but especially this lowkey jam from Jhené Aiko. Her melodic voice and that drum beat is just so silky smooth.
68. Dos Oruguitas – Encanto
Even though the entire song is in Spanish, there is no denying its beauty. “Dos Oruguitas” manages to make you sing and bleed all at once.
67. We Know the Way – Moana
The blend of Samoan, Tokelauan and English in this song is so powerful and can pump anyone up for the battle ahead. Lin-Manuel Miranda is a musical genius.
66. Trashin’ the Camp – Tarzan
This song has no right to be as catchy and good as it is. It’s basically a bunch of noise and scatting, but it works so well and will be stuck in your head for a very long time.
65. Whistle While You Work – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Shout out to the pioneer of classic Disney work. This is arguably the best song by Snow White in the film and lays the foundation for what every Disney song should be.
64. Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo – Cinderella
It might be three-quarters of absolute nonsense, but the fairy godmother is just so iconic and makes this song absolutely magical.
63. Cruella De Vil – One Hundred and One Dalmatians
A song that sends chills down your spine. Roger Darling truly captures Cruella’s essence with every single word and it’s perfectly terrifying.
62. Heigh Ho – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
The Seven Dwarfs carry a seven part harmony like nobody’s business. We would all work the mines if it meant getting to sing this classic all day.
61. Hawaiian Rollercoaster Ride – Lilo & Stitch
“Lilo & Stitch” is more known for its hilarious characters and hijinks, but the songs are such Disney treasures, and this hit deserves a lot more praise.
60. Can You Feel the Love Tonight – The Lion King
A song that elicits all kinds of feelings, this slow jam is so romantic that it wouldn’t be surprising if it was the most-played Disney song at weddings.
59. Oo De Lally – Robin Hood
This folk song is such a departure from the Disney music we are used to, but it fits so well with the overall film, and is such a jam.
58. Honor To Us All – Mulan
Passive aggressive pressure from moms and aunties is always a moment, but in musical form, it’s next level good.
57. Poor Unfortunate Souls – The Little Mermaid
Is this the ultimate villain song or just an important lesson about body language? Who are we kidding, it’s both!
56. Something There – Beauty and the Beast
The will they/won’t they tension is strong in this song, but the Beast and Belle’s romantic chemistry is just so sweet and tender at this point, making this song that much more special.
55. Bella Notte – Lady and the Tramp
This might be the most romantic song in history. Everyone blames the princesses for setting up unrealistic romantic relationships, but Lady, Tramp, the spaghetti and Bella Notte are truly the ones to blame.
54. So This Is Love – Cinderella
Is it possible for a song to just make you melt? The soothing vocals of Ilene Woods and Mike Douglas are picture perfect and are as charming as it gets.
53. Everybody Wants to Be a Cat – The Aristocats
This jazz number is equal parts sultry jazz and a wild Disney tune. It’s an incredibly catchy tune that starts off slow and builds up to an epic conclusion that won’t escape your mind.
52. Zero to Hero – Hercules
The Muses are back at it with another hit. This middle of the story montage of the Heroic Hercules is definitely their best work as a quintet with such a quick and enthusiastic number.
51. The Bare Necessities – The Jungle Book
Baloo is the king of making what feels like a very low-key bop into a quick-witted masterpiece. We can never get enough of “The Bare Necessities”.
50. Show Yourself – Frozen II
Elsa has officially entered the chat. A Queen known for powerhouse performances, “Show Yourself” starts out quiet and thoughtful before hitting its powerful peak. It goes to show Elsa’s talent when this banger is probably her least popular song.
49. Friend Like Me – Aladdin
Robin Williams bring his comedic genius to this number that is as quick and quirky as it gets. It’s the introduction song that sets the stage for one of Disney’s greatest characters.
48. Down in New Orleans – The Princess and the Frog
Dr. John had such a gift for delivering sultry blues and jazz hits. His voice immediately drops us into the New Orleans setting and also sets up such a fantastically unique soundtrack.
47. Out There – The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Never judge a book by its cover, because no one could imagine a lonely Hunchback having an angelic voice like the lead of a gospel choir. Equal parts heartbreaking and hopeful, it’s a beautiful song about aspiring for something greater.
46. Gaston – Beauty and the Beast
A Broadway style number that somehow endears the film’s villain despite him being such a pompous jerk. “Gaston” is the best villain song of all-time!
45. Why Should I Worry – Oliver & Company
Billy Joel playing a Disney dog is not something that’s talked about enough. It should be no surprise that the singer behind “Piano Man” made this song an absolute smash.
44. Try Everything – Zootopia
Shakira aka Gazelle is a pop superstar who puts the cherry on top of a wonderful story of acceptance with this ultimate bop of a song. It’s impossible not to dance!
43. Just Around the River Bend – Pocahontas
Looking for a soothing, lovely song that puts you in a ravine of wonder? Look no further than Pocahontas’ first real banger. But like we always say, choose Kocoum girl!
42. When Will My Life Begin? – Tangled
A song that speaks to every soul ready for their next chapter, Rapunzel’s state of stillness and readiness to “begin” her life is so relatable. She will have you running through the field feeling empowered to take on the world.
41. I Am Moana – Moana
This may not be THE song from “Moana”, but it’s such a powerful warrior call that sets the stage for the epic conclusion to come. It’s also a very emotional moment that speaks to the importance of carrying your family with you.
40. One Jump Ahead – Aladdin
This adventurous tune brings you right into the action with every lyric and provides Aladdin’s backstory in such a succinct and fun way. One Jump will get you pumped.
39. I Wan’na Be Like You – The Jungle Book
What a jam! King Louie brings a sizzle to this upbeat jazz number that has such a melodic rhythm, it doesn’t even matter that he has semi-poor intentions. Adding in Baloo’s doo-ops at the end makes it even sweeter.
38. A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes – Cinderella
Ilene Woods is back at it again, enchanting us with her angelic voice. She embodies the beauty and grace Cinderella embodies and makes us believe in the power of dreams.
37. Son of Man – Tarzan
The song that sees Tarzan grow from boy into man. Phil Collins being the expert he is tells the story so well through the song, slowly building from a slow beat to a poppy jam. He is talent.
36. All Of You – Encanto
Talk about a moving finale song. “All of You” brings a tear to your eye but also a bright beaming smile as the Madrigal closes one chapter and moves forward together as a family. Mirabel getting the love she rightfully deserves is too sweet.
35. Once Upon A Dream – Sleeping Beauty
This may just be the Disney Sing It nostalgia talking, but “Once Upon a Dream” is one of the most fun songs to sing. It has that crooning style of music not often seen in Disney films anymore and is wildly underrated.
34. Prince Ali – Aladdin
“Friend Like Me” is the fun introduction of the Genie, but “Prince Ali” is where the character truly shines. The way Robin Williams’ voice shifts for every new “person” the Genie embodies is a special quality only he could so perfectly have.
33. Do You Want to Build a Snowman? – Frozen
Elsa (knock, knock, knock). And just like that, Disney had an instant hit on its hand. The first real song in “Frozen” takes us on an emotionally captivating ride that is equally heartwarming and heartbreaking. It’s the best way to kick off an excellent soundtrack.
32. Under the Sea – The Little Mermaid
A reggae jam in a Disney movie isn’t anything anyone expected but that’s exactly what we got and it’s amazing! Between Sebastian’s smooth vocal styling to the enchanting animated sea life, it’s such a show stopper.
31. When You Wish Upon A Star – Pinocchio
If there is any song that has defined the Disney company’s legacy for all generations, it would be this one. The lyrics, the melody and most importantly, the message speak to what Disney represents to all – dreams coming true.
30. Belle – Beauty and the Beast
It’s rare for a song to flawlessly portray the setting and introduce the leading lady and film’s villain all in one seamless number. However, it’s no surprise that “Beauty and the Beast” executes with excellence.
29. I’ve Got a Dream – Tangled
A hilarious but also insanely catchy song with an important message of following your dreams that takes place in a rundown dive bar. Seriously, what can’t Disney achieve musically?
28. Kiss the Girl – The Little Mermaid
We love a song that builds to an epic climax and “Kiss the Girl” does it magnificently. The tension picks up with every passing second and story wise it may end in disappointment but musically it ends with an epic high.
27. Strangers Like Me – Tarzan
I can only compliment Phil Collins so many times before it gets repetitive but this jam proves he can really do everything. Those guitar riffs (chef’s kiss).
26. Almost There – The Princess and the Frog
Anika Noni Rose may have been a supporting character in “Dream Girls” but her star shines brighter than ever as Tiana. The girl can sing like nobody’s business and delivers a showstopper in a flashy tune about hard work and dedication.
25. What Else Can I Do? – Encanto
Hot take, but people do not talk about this “Encanto” number enough. It’s a song of self discovery and opening your eyes to who people really are. It is such a poppy tune and deserves more shine.
24. You Can Fly! You Can Fly! You Can Fly! – Peter Pan
Who doesn’t love this classic? It marvelously mixes story with classic Disney music that nearly every person on planet earth can probably repeat. It’s the song that has paved the way for most of our modern day favourites.
23. Love Is An Open Door – Frozen
There is no way a duet that features the manipulative villain should be this good. We all love to hate Hans because he and his sideburns are the worst and Anna deserves better but the boy can SING. If we all had the same musical chemistry as Hans and Anna we’d fall for his tricks too.
22. Two Worlds – Tarzan
Oh look another Phil Collins appreciation post. This opening song is just fantastic. It has tension built in it from the very beginning, and every time it starts to ease, it swerves reminding you of the terrible tragedy you are about to witness. SO GOOD.
21. I’ll Make A Man Out of You – Mulan
At first glance, this song may seem like a sexist diatribe, but in actuality it’s Mulan’s defining moment in which she proves she is just as strong and capable as any man, even if they don’t know. We love a secret girl power moment!
20. For the First Time in Forever – Frozen
The song itself is great, but what makes it excellent is how much Anna’s personality is infused with every lyric. Despite so much hardship and loneliness, she has such a positive outlook on a day she’s been waiting years for and the energy shines through radiantly.
19. Into the Unknown – Frozen II
You can’t expect anything but a banger from Elsa. Her power ballads always deliver and “Into the Unknown” is no exception. This time around though her feelings are a mix of accepting where she is and finding out more about herself. It’s such a powerful piece of music.
18. I Just Can’t Wait to be King – The Lion King
Simba should come off as a spoiled brat in this song, but instead he just comes across as the smoothest cat in the pride lands. We probably have Elton John to thank for the brilliance of this song. He truly is KING.
17. Be Our Guest – Beauty and the Beast
Talk about a showstopper! No one puts on the high quality production of a musical performance quite like the furniture of the Beast’s castle. It might be the most fun song, but the visuals that match are what take it to the next level.
16. I See the Light – Tangled
Not since Lady and the Tramp has romantic tension every been so palpable. Between the setting, the melodic voices and the most gorgeous animated characters, “I See the Light” is the musical embodiment of a fairytale.
15. Colors of the Wind – Pocahontas
You had me at have you ever heard the wolf cry to the blue corn moon. Pocahontas really has her moment with “Colors of the Wind”, putting John Smith in his place while also beautifully singing her heart out.
14. Dig A Little Deeper – The Princess and the Frog
Not enough people talk about how great this song is. It’s an upbeat jam that blends a bit of jazz, blues, pop and country, and manages to do it so seamlessly. Mama Odie may be a voodoo priestess but she is also the Disney Queen of Soul.
13. Hakuna Matata – The Lion King
Arguably the most beloved song in all of Disney history, there is no denying that “Hakuna Matata” has all of the qualities that make the best Disney music, catchy beat, quirky lyrics and excellent storytelling.
12. Go the Distance – Hercules
The male Disney power ballad doesn’t often match the same level of epic as the female leads, but Hercules comes pretty darn close to perfection with “Go the Distance”. His energy is fire.
11. Surface Pressure – Encanto
Simply put, this song slaps. Even before Luisa starts to sing, the beat has you hooked and as soon as those lyrics kick in get ready for an experience that even has the donkeys on their feet and dancing.
10. Reflection – Mulan
Perhaps it’s the balance between quiet disappointment that leads to the striking journey of self-discovery, but “Reflection” is such a gorgeous ballad that flawlessly captures character development in just a couple of minutes.
9. You’ll Be In My Heart – Tarzan
If Phil Collins hadn’t already proved his talent to you with the rest of the “Tarzan” soundtrack, then this tearjerker better have you singing the man’s praises at the top of your lungs. THANK YOU PHIL!
8. How Far I’ll Go – Moana
At this point, Disney has the Princess power ballad down to a tea, and Moana delivers such a commanding performance as she explains her wants and needs. Try not to sing this near a body of water and feel like the ultimate Queen.
7. Beauty and the Beast – Beauty and the Beast
Sometimes a song and a scene work so well together that it’s impossible not to get emotional thinking about the beauty of it. This titular track is so smooth and romantic and captures the purity of Belle and Beast’s relationship.
6. We Don’t Talk About Bruno – Encanto
Genius Lin-Manuel is back at it again with his ability to create a quick and snappy hit that every man, woman and child knows the words to. It’s the perfect balance of using music as a storytelling tool, while ensuring the song is so enthralling all on its own.
5. Let It Go – Frozen
“Let It Go” is the song every child and child at heart absolutely loves to sing at the top of their lungs, even if parents are sick of it. However, it can’t be denied that Elsa is having THE moment in her ice castle and we should all bow down.
4. I Won’t Say (I’m In Love) – Hercules
The pop song of all pop songs – Meg should be on the same global pop level as Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera with this hit. The song has an indescribable quality that makes it an excellent piece of music.
3. A Whole New World – Aladdin
There is a reason this song is a Grammy Award winner. The harmony between Aladdin and Jasmine is magical (and I’m not just talking about the carpet), and feels so intimate in such an honest and heartfelt way. THE PERECT ROMANCE SONG.
2. Part of Your World – The Little Mermaid
This is THE power ballad of all power ballads. This want song speaks to the talent of Howard Ashman and Alan Menken. The lyrics, the melody and the vocal stylings of Jodi Benson – all perfection.
1. Circle of Life – The Lion King
Chills. There is no other song on the planet that is able to capture listeners’ attention in its first 4-seconds. It’s an anthem that speaks to the importance of music in film and is without a doubt the best Disney song of all ages.
What is your favourite Disney song? Let us know in the comments below or on one of our social media channels. And make sure to follow Frozen Mouse Fever for all your Disney and Universal needs.
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