Top 10 Disney Songs of the 20th Century

Some numbers cut through the noise, instantly making anybody listening feel seen. “Reflection” fits that bill perfectly. It gives Mulan a chance to open up about what’s bothering her, the familial pressures she’s under, and who her true self is at a dire point in the film. In doing so, it touches on what’s arguably a universal human experience: falsely thinking you’re not good enough. From the first moment to the last, the emotional ballad tugs at our heartstrings, reaching into the depths of our beings. And it accomplishes all that while being gorgeous in every technical regard, both lyrically and musically. If this song were to stare at its reflection, we have no doubt it’d like what it sees.

This melodic tune does indeed sound like something you’d hear in the most spectacular dream. It’s “Sleeping Beauty”’s theme for a reason! In the movie, there’s a moment where Mary Costa, aka Aurora, brings it to life with her exquisite vocals. Bill Shirley’s Phillip soon adds to its ethereal beauty, before the chorus takes over. It’s a pivotal scene, and if you ask us, the tender song is a big part of why the encounter is so iconic. We can’t help but want to slow dance like the central pair whenever it plays, because there’s a romantic quality to it that’s simply irresistible. We know it’s true, that visions are seldom all they seem — but “Once Upon a Dream” is the real, graceful deal.

As far as opening numbers go, this is one of the best out there. It understands what it must do: draw the audience in while helping to provide context for the tale. Through it, Frollo is established as the villain, killing Quasimodo’s mother when the boy is merely a baby. Thus, we also learn of how the protagonist became the titular cathedral’s bell-ringer. It goes without saying, but it’s harrowing stuff. “The Bells of Notre Dame” emphasizes that distressing mood, with big orchestral elements that stir our souls, underscoring the gravity of the situation at hand. There’s an appropriately dark energy flowing through Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz’s haunting creation, and it’s engrossing.

We have a permanent spot in our hearts for this sweet lullaby, and we can’t imagine that’ll ever change. For one thing, Phil Collins seems to have put his whole being into writing the endearing tune, and that comes through in each lyric. Its main use within “Tarzan” is no less special, demonstrating how much Kala values her newfound mother-son relationship with the title character. They may be from two separate worlds, but that’s insignificant. “You’ll Be in My Heart” confirms that nothing will stop her from being there to look out for him. Listening to the pure melody and sincere words, we get the sense that things will be okay. It’s like a warm hug, and we never want the embrace to end.

Everybody knows “Cinderella.” And this ballad, sung by Ilene Woods in her role as the titular character, encapsulates everything that makes the story an enduring one. Romance, magic, and everything else notwithstanding, the fairy tale’s strength lies in the way Cinderella refuses to let her circumstance break her spirit. Her rendition of “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” is the musical representation of that, and what a lovely representation it is. It brings her positive outlook to the fore with rosy instrumentation and hopeful lyrics that lull us into a dreamlike state. Thanks to it, we believe if we have faith, someday our rainbow will come smiling through.

“I Want” tracks tend to be show-stoppers in Disney flicks, and “Part of Your World” is definitely no exception. We already know Ariel has a fascination with life on land. But this is the number that crucially makes us empathize with her desire to join those residing ashore. Jodi Benson’s vulnerable delivery is riveting enough on its own, and it’s elevated by vivid descriptions that makes life where the people are sound majestic. This all combines with the grand production to elicit an array of truly captivating emotions. Of course, it’s not the only bop the film has to offer. But it is undeniably iconic, and we’d happily belt along to it (or its reprise) any day of the week.

When you think of songs that symbolize what Disney’s all about, chances are this one comes to mind. Maybe it’s because it snagged the Best Original Song Oscar. Maybe it’s because of how it ushers in 1940’s “Pinocchio,” thoughtfully leading us into the story. Or maybe it’s because it’s an enthralling piece of music. All those things speak to the most important element: its profound, magical nature, which highlights the importance of dreaming. And Cliff Edwards’ Jiminy Cricket is the ideal messenger, with his voice lending a gravitas and depth to the wonderfully melodious composition. It doesn’t matter how old you are, the notion – however fantastical – that wishing upon a star can make your dreams come true is comforting, making this a timeless classic.

Shining, shimmering, splendid – these are lyrics featured in this acclaimed ballad. Fittingly, they’re also words we’d use to describe the track itself, because Jasmine and Aladdin’s duet is completely spellbinding. It’s filled with a sense of grandeur that’s difficult to achieve. Yet at the same time, it carries an intimate feel that makes the pair’s magic carpet ride extra special. As they fly through the sky and belt out “A Whole New World,” they connect with one another on a significant level. And the love song is so striking that we as listeners get to experience their wondrous bond on a visceral level, too. Between that and “Friend Like Me,” “Aladdin” leaves one heck of a tuneful mark. We wouldn’t have it any other way.

From “Be Our Guest” to “Gaston,” “Beauty and the Beast” is filled with music that stands the test of time. But there’s one creation that rises above the rest, enchanting us in the truest sense of the word. We’re talking about the award-winning title track, performed by Mrs. Potts. As elegant as can be, it’s the ideal complement to Belle and Beast’s date. Each note, lyric, and piece of instrumentation seamlessly comes together, creating a romantic atmosphere that’s hard to beat. That’s saying nothing of the late Angela Lansbury’s marvelous voice, which soars to make the material shine. Beautifully conveying a tale as old as time, “Beauty and the Beast” will forever be known as a theatrical love ballad for the ages.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

"Colors of the Wind," “Pocahontas” (1995)
An Ode to Community & the Interconnectedness of Different Life Forms

"Baby Mine," “Dumbo” (1941)
Poignantly Exploring the Power of a Mother’s Love

"Heigh-Ho," “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” (1937)
Catchy Fun You’re Sure to Enjoy, Whether You’re Part of the Labor Force or Not

"Go the Distance," “Hercules” (1997)
Herc’s Empowering Hero Song Has More Than What It Takes to Cross the Finish Line

"The Bare Necessities," “The Jungle Book” (1967)
A Oscar-Nominated Jazz Tune That Never Fails to Get Us Grooving

Picture it: you press play on “The Lion King” for the first time, and “Circle of Life” begins. Suddenly, shivers run down your spine as you’re immersed into the setting in what could almost be described as an out-of-body experience. That’s how we felt, and the sweeping tune still has that effect on us today – for good reason. It’s a dignified reminder that each being is part of a bigger journey, and has the power to poignantly move anyone through despair and hope. In other words, it gives us a master class in songwriting, storytelling, and production. It’s no stretch to say that – alongside “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” and “Hakuna Matata” – “Circle of Life” is a century-defining entry in Disney’s musical catalog.