Top 10 Villain Songs That Didn't Have to Go THAT Hard
#10: “Just The Two Of Us (Dr. Evil Mix)” “Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me” (1999)
Top 20 Disney Songs That Didn't Have to Go THAT Hard
From the moment Dr. Evil spins toward the camera and starts to spit some downright fire rap lyrics, it’s clear this isn’t your average villain monologue. While the “Austin Powers” franchise isn’t known for taking itself seriously, this remix might be peak shenanigans. Yet, as silly as it seems, you can’t help but dance along to the doctor’s “cool guy” bop. The iconic number sees the villain confess his true feelings while robot dancing along to a synthesizer track. It’s safe to say there’s no other villain song quite like it.
#9: “Beelzeboss (The Final Showdown)” “Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny” (2006)
Speak of the devil. In this scene, Jack Black challenges the Satan - yes, Satan - to a rock off. Never one to back down from a challenge, Old Nick proceeds to perform an insane rock number. The performance is chock-full of explicit lyrics and features an intense drum solo, heavy metal screaming, and electric guitar riffs. With the stakes of this comedy at an all-time high, the scene takes a few steps past cheeky and lands right in raunchy territory. By the time they’ve finished the rock off, you’re sort of just left scratching your head. It’s a… lot to process.
#8: “I Put A Spell On You” “Hocus Pocus” (1993)
Top 20 Opening Songs in Animated Movies That Didn't Have to Go THAT Hard
This spooky fan-favorite is quirky at every turn, but this scene has to take the eccentric cake. Rather than just casting another ordinary spell, the three witchy divas transform into a pop group as they take the stage by storm. Bette Midler goes above and beyond in her enrapturing performance and even the a “Hocus Pocus”-specific bridge is stellar. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a malignant spell with a catchier tune. This rendition of the classic is high tempo and just pure fun, only adding to the long list of reasons to love the magical trio.
#7: “Be Prepared” “The Lion King” (1994)
Top 10 Disney Songs That Didn't Have To Go THAT Hard
Disney villains are notorious for stealing the show with over-the-top musical numbers, and Scar is no exception. Believe it or not, nailing the lion’s signature raspy charm was so demanding that Jeremy Irons couldn’t finish the recording. Jim Cummings, who is also the voice of Ed the Hyena and countless other beloved Disney characters, actually stepped in to finish the song as Scar. The lion is one of the meanest baddies out there, and “Be Prepared” perfectly reflects that. This intense ballad masters the villainous build from simmering resentment to a flaming finale, giving the movie’s other hit tracks a real run for their money.
#6: “Feed Me (Git It!)” “Little Shop of Horrors” (1986)
The best villains are the ones that catch you off guard, and this carnivorous creature is full of surprises. Why stop at a giant talking plant when you can have a giant singing one? This number establishes Audrey II as a creepy and corrupt antagonist. He proves he isn’t just an “inanimate object” by barking out orders over a backtrack of electric guitar. Yet, even with its haunting concept, the tune becomes bizarrely fun when a coo-ing chorus of background singers join in. We’ve certainly never heard a catchier rock song from an alien flytrap - though that might be accredited to Levi Stubbs.
#5: “Poor Unfortunate Souls” “The Little Mermaid” (1989)
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While “Part of Your World” has soaring melodies and “Under the Sea” could not be catchier, it feels impossible to compete with Ursula’s theatrical showstopper. The sea witch ballad that captured so many ‘90s kids' hearts pulls out all the stops, and it’s no surprise considering her character was inspired by a drag queen! Serving up drama, wit, and attitude, the performance gives villainy the full diva treatment. As her rage boils over in a passionate display of sass and sinister intentions, Ursula has the audience caught hook, line, and sinker.
#4: “Friends on the Other Side” “The Princess and the Frog” (2009)
This number is so big that Dr. Facilier had to call for backup from beyond the grave! Luckily, the spirits perfectly match Facilier’s flair for the dramatics and his great sense of rhythm. A master of manipulation, the doctor has you hanging on his every word, and the rousing finale takes the song to the next level. If we’re talking scenes that “go hard,” “Friends On The Other Side” is visually stunning and the hook is devilishly catchy. This is certainly one of the most memorable Disney villain moments. We’re always in favor of some ill-intentioned pizzazz!
#3: “Cell Block Tango” “Chicago” (2002)
It might take two to tango, but it takes a six-piece of murderesses to pull off this iconic number. While villains typically sing about what they’re planning to do, these women recount the crimes of their past. The performance uses symbolic choreography as the Cook County Jail is turned into a stage. The women tell their side of the story and, while not everyone knows the plot of “Chicago,” most people will recognize this hit. It’s a classic for good reason: it turns simple exposition into catchy jazz refrains, sensual undertones, and a huge ensemble finale.
#2: “Sweet Transvestite” “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” (1975)
No matter what role he plays, Tim Curry finds a way to steal the show. Remember his pirate ditty in “Muppet Treasure Island”? From goofy scoundrel to cheeky supernova, there’s one thing his wide range of roles have in common: every villainous character is helplessly charming. This classic scene is overflowing with charisma, confidence, and both sex and shock appeal. Rather than offering his guests a simple answer, Brad and Janet become an audience and the room becomes a theater. “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” isn’t known for being subtle, and Curry’s performance definitely feels larger than life. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “Mother Knows Best,” “Tangled” (2010) Mother Gothel Puts on an Extravagant Production “Magic Dance,” “Labyrinth” (1986) David Bowie Wrote, Recorded, & Performed This Villain Song “Toxic Love,” “FernGully: The Last Rainforest” (1992) Tim Curry Even Makes Sludge Seem Charming “Holding Out For A Hero,” “Shrek 2” (2004) An 80’s Cover That Is Just Magical “Last Midnight,” “Into the Woods” (2014) Meryl Streep’s Witchy & Fabulous Meltdown
#1: “Hellfire” “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (1996)
Usually, Disney villains have a light-hearted humor that distracts from the reality of their evil scheming. However, in the case of French minister Frollo, his villain song turns into a heavy reflection on morality. The sequence begins with a prayer that confesses guilt. However, as we continue to follow Frollo, he denies responsibility for his temptation. Lust, sin, and the afterlife are depicted with breathtaking animation as hooded figures transform into a flaming Esmerelda. There’s something about this fiend’s vulnerability that’s equally impactful and terrifying, and the spine-chilling choral finale is entirely unforgettable.
