Ahhh, heroes. Whilst we have ventured into the realms of the Top 10 Disney Villain songs (which admittedly, was a while ago), there are of course plenty of Disney Hero songs, which we haven't discussed as of yet. You may be trying to think of some in your head right now, and (also admittedly) this did take a while to compile. There are so many hero songs that were winners with us, but we have included a honourable mentions at the bottom that you can check out, if your favourite didn't make the Top 10 list. So, grab your sword, get your legs in gear and prepare yourself for The Top 10 Disney Songs - Heroes version. If you're still looking for your Disney fix after this, you can check out our list of the Top 10 Disney Princesses as well.
10: When will my life begin - Tangled
For all you big dreamers out there, Tangled's 'When will my life begin' swings its way onto our list at number 10. Yes, whether its Rapunzel's whimsical aspirations or her excellent use of her hair, 'When will my life begin' is a rather melancholy song about the boring day-to-day sameness that the young dreamer endures, when she'd much rather be doing something else (other than painting, baking, ballet, more baking etcetera). I think everyone can relate to this song in that some of us do get stuck doing similar things each day, and that the same repetitive nature of tasks can get a little boring. Sometimes I think we may all be guilty of wondering when our 'lives' will begin. Did we also mention that Mandy Moore is ace in this? (and the tune is pretty catchy too!)
9: I'll Make a Man out of You - Mulan
Let's get down to business. Feel free to point us in the direction of someone who doesn't have a soft spot for Mulan. This song has got to be one of our favourites on its own, but combined with the hilarious video sequence it features in (the film), 'I'll Make a Man out of You' is so packed full of irony that it couldn't be more perfect. Sufficed to say, Mulan sucks pretty bad to begin with, but she certainly proves everyone wrong towards the end of the song as she finally reaches the top of the pole and retrieves the arrow! Yay Mulan! 'I'll Make a Man out of You' has a distinctly war-time vibe, with heavy drum beats and we love the sound effects of everyone falling down the pole to begin with. Containing some of the best lyrics in a Disney song (but not quite enough to beat the other 8 on our list), it certainly is a memorable addition to the Disney audio family.
8: Part of Your World - The Little Mermaid
Sick of swimming? Ready to stand? Well then, rise out of your watery prison like Ariel, and join her in a rendition of 'Part of Your World'. Yes, the mermaid princess' song swings in at number 8. 'Part of Your World' is also coincidentally, another song about being tired of doing the same old thing (in this case swimming) and wanting to do something new (in this case, be on land and explore the treasures above). 'Part of Your World' is a classic, and you can't help but get caught up in the song - especially when Ariel goes through her treasure trove and lists all the things she's collected over the years. Reminisce over The Little Mermaid, below.
7: Circle of Life - The Lion King
We're pretty sure everyone knows this song. Yes, it's the 'Circle of Life' and it moves us all (see what we did there?). The Lion King's iconic song (composed by Elton John, lyrics by Tim Rice, and vocals by Carmen Twillie and Lebo M) stormed its way through the charts and was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Song in 1994. If that doesn't scream anthem and success, then I don't know what does. 'Circle of Life' is more than a song, its actually a reality and many of the lyrics do have relevant meaning nowadays. Nature is a powerful thing, and this song truly emphasises that.
6: I can go the distance - Hercules
It's not until you actually think about it, that you realise most Disney songs are pretty inspirational (assuming they are the heroes songs) - and 'I can go the distance' is no exception. Oh yes, in a similar manner to most of the songs on this list, Hercules' 'I can go the distance' is certainly full of dreams and aspirations, and emphasises the idea of being able to do what needs to be done to get what you want out of life - not a bad message, huh? Also hitting home the idea of acceptance, as well as being undeniably infectious, and Roger Bart is killer in the song as Young Hercules.
5: Tale as Old as Time - Beauty and The Beast
As we slide into the final five, Angela Lansbury's 'Beauty and The Beast' (which we are calling 'Tale as Old as Time', so as to not confuse you) captures our hearts (and let's face it - it's Angela Lansbury). Composed by Alan Menken, with lyrics by Howard Ashman, 'Tale as Old as Time' is again, one of those classic Disney songs that you can't help but get in to. With Mrs. Potts kickin' it up a notch, 'Tale as Old as Time' breezes its way easily into our memories. Sweeping instrumentals and elegant vocals make this enchanting track worthy of its 5th position on our list.
4: Reflection - Mulan
And we're back to good ol' Mulan! Bet you didn't think you'd get another addition from the film on our list - but we had to include the incredibly beautiful 'Reflection', which is by name, a rather reflective piece. Ever feel like your reflection doesn't show who you really are? Well, be safe in the knowledge that many other people feel the same way, and this feeling is truly encompassed in this Mulan classic. Lea Salonga is captivating in this song, and it truly emphasises the struggles people face in being accepted by others, despite trying to be who they really are. Highly relatable and truly mesmerizing, 'Reflection' is one of those hidden gems that you'll never forget. [Side note: Ignore the video desc. saying the version below is sung by Christina Aguilera - it isn't.]
3: Let it Go - Frozen
Whilst we are fairly sure this song has been sung to death by now, we remain true to Idina Menzel's version, and although it has literally been everywhere - we can't deny that it is a great song. Menzel is truly an icy Queen on this song, as whilst many of you will be telling us to let it go, we just can't, because it is still a great song (and it's Idina Menzel!). As atmospheric and triumphant as the day is long, 'Let it Go' has managed to earn Frozen its place amongst the Disney hero greats (song-wise, at least). Four for you Elsa! You go Elsa!
2: When She Loved Me - Toy Story 2
What could possibly beat out all of these other great songs to claim the number 2 spot we hear you cry? Well, grab your tissues because the next one's a real tearjerker. Toy Story 2's 'When She Loved Me' steals the second spot on our list (possibly due to sheer sadness alone) and it's a real emotional roller-coaster. Sung by Sarah McLachlan, with the speaking voice by Joan Cusack (who voices Jessie), 'When She Loved Me' is one of the lesser well-known songs from Disney, but what it lacks in infamy it more than makes up for in its sheer bitter-sweet nature. Describing the tale of Jessie's former owner, the raggedy, red-haired cowgirl toy pulls on everyone's heartstrings with her recollection of the story. It's pretty deep, but undoubtedly one of the most touching songs Disney[Pixar] has ever produced.
1: Be Our Guest - Beauty and The Beast
And the winner is...well, did you ever have any doubt? 'Be Our Guest' is the quintessential Disney song (with of course, Howard Ashman and Alan Menken writing the lyrics and composing, respectively), with Jerry Orbach and Angela Lansbury (Lumiere and Mrs. Potts) really singing it home with this upbeat number (a change from the solemn second addition on this list). The large scale musical number in the video summarizes this song pretty nicely, its extravagant, and its especially 'musical' in nature. It's possibly everything you could ever want from a Disney song, and it really set the standard high for songs after that. So, relax and take a seat, and let this dishes and utensils serve you up a treat.
Honourable Mentions:
Whilst our list might have reached its conclusion, we do have 5 honourable mentions below.
1. 'You'll be in my Heart' - Tarzan (another pure classic, and deeply sentimental song)
2. 'Out There' - The Hunchback of Notre Dame (sing it from the rooftops of your bell tower!)
3. 'He Lives in You' - The Lion King (The second best song from The Lion King in our opinion)
4. 'I'm Almost There' - The Princess and the Frog (a Louisiana treat for all you hard workers!)
5. 'A Whole New World' - Aladdin (need we say any more?)
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