The Music of Disney: 1928-2021

The Music of Disney A Retrospective: 1928-2021

Overview: Walt Disney was born on December 5, 1901, in Chicago, Illinois. He started out as a commercial illustrator. In the 1920s, he and his brother Ray set up Disney Brothers Studio in California. He created the character of Mickey Mouse in 1928. Over the years, he developed pioneering methods of delivering animation and film. He would also branch out into live action films and, in the 1950s, theme parks. Well into the 21st century now, the name Disney is still associated with high-quality animated feature films infused with music written and performed by some of the biggest stars from Broadway and popular music. Songs like “When You Wish Upon a Star” and “It’s a Small World After All” have become iconic parts of American pop culture and, even as recently as 2013, the song “Let It Go” from Frozen became a sensation. This page highlights a handful of compilations that have celebrated the music of Disney since that first animated short, Steamboat Willie, in 1928. The songs have all been compiled into one massive list with notations about what they were featured in (movie, short, etc.), who performed the song, its year of release, chart data if applicable, and which compilations the song is featured on. In addition, songs are highlighted that rank in the DMDB’s Top 100 Disney Songs list. Check out the Spotify playlist of the Top 100 Disney songs here.. Links DMDB encyclopedia entry for Disney Top 100 Disney Songs

Awards for Walt Disney

Significant Soundtrack Albums Click on the album cover to see details on this page about it, including chart data, sales, awards, and significant featured songs.

Compilations This page highlights songs from Disney movies, television shows, and theme parks that are featured on the compilations below. Click on an album below to see details about its release, chart performance (Click here for codes to charts.), sales, ratings, and awards. All the songs featured on these compilations (noted by the codes below) are listed chronologically on this page with details about what Disney feature the song originated from, its year of release, and the songs’ performers. MD The Music of Disney: A Legacy in Song (box set, 1992) C1 Classic Disney Volume I (1995) C2 Classic Disney Volume II (1995) C3 Classic Disney Volume III (1996) C4 Classic Disney Volume IV (1997) C5 Classic Disney Volume V (1998) G1 Disney’s Greatest Volume 1 (2001) G2 Disney’s Greatest Volume 2 (2001) G3 Disney’s Greatest Volume 3 (2002) GH Disney’s Greatest Hits (2005) NT Now That’s What I Call Disney (box set, 2011) UD Ultimate Disney (box set, 2013)

The Songs: 1928-1933 These are all the songs appearing on any of the noted compilations above. (Click for codes to charts.) 1928: Steamboat Willie (animated short): “Turkey in the Straw” by Gid Tanner (12/25/1926, 14 PM) MD 1929: Mickey’s Follies (animated short): “Minnie’s Yoo Hoo!” C1 1933: Three Little Pigs (animated short): “Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?” by Mary Moder et al MD, G3, C2, GH

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Frank Churchill (composer)

Released: January 31, 1938 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 4.233 out of 5.00 (average of 12 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “I’m Wishing” by Adriana Caselotti with Harry Stockwell C4 “One Song” by Adriana Caselotti with Harry Stockwell C4 “With a Smile and a Song” “Whistle While You Work” by Adriana Caselotti (2/12/1938, 2 PM, 2 GA, 2 HP) MD, GH, NT “Heigh-Ho” by the Dwarf Chorus (2/12/1938, 3 PM, 3 GA, 4 HP) MD, G1, C2, GH, NT, UD “Bluddle-Uddle-Um-Dum (the Dwarfs’ Washing Song)” “Someday My Prince Will Come” by Adriana Caselotti (2/19/1938, 10 PM) MD, G2, C1, GH, NT “Love’s First Kiss” “The Silly Song (Dwarfs’ Yodel Song)” by the Dwarf Chorus C3, UD About the Movie and Soundtrack: Disney’s “legendary story of true love’s kiss” RS “holds the blueprint for so much of what makes Disney so beloved: a fantasy universe that feels believable, impactful songs, great characters, a terrifying villain, and breathtaking animation.” RS “Not a soul outside the project believed it would work. A feature-length animation was practically unheard of — animation was best left in short form.” RS When adjusted for inflation, Disney’s first animated feature is the highest-grossing animated film of all time. RS

Pinocchio Leigh Harline & Ned Washington (composers)

Released: February 9, 1940 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.872 out of 5.00 (average of 13 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “When You Wish Upon a Star” by Cliff Edwards with the Ken Darby Singers (2/17/1940, 10 PM, 14 GA, 14 HP) MD, G1, C2, GH, NT “Little Wooden Head” “Give a Little Whistle” by Cliff Edwards with the Ken Darby Singers MD, G3, C4, NT, UD “Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee (An Actor’s Life for Me)” by Walter Catlett “I’ve Got No Strings” by Dickie Jones G2, C5, GH, UD “Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee (Reprise)” “When You Wish upon a Star (Reprise)” About the Movie and Soundtrack: “How do you follow up on the immense success of Snow White? If you’re Disney, it’s going bigger, bolder, and even darker. Adapting Carlo Collodi’s Pinocchio, this is a film full of wonder and horror. The story follows Pinocchio (Dickie Jones), a puppet desperate to become a real boy.” RS “Critically the film was adored, but children (understandably) found it far too frightening.” RS “Unfortunately for Disney, WWII shuttered access to European markets – a real shame considering the film’s heavy European influence — and the film tanked at the box office. But nowadays, Pinocchio is rightly recognized not just as one of the greatest animated films ever made, but as one of the great films period.” RS The soundtrack featured the greatest Disney song ever written – “When You Wish Upon a Star.” It has become so associated with Disney that it is now used to open ever modern Disney movie. RS

Fantasia Various Artists

Released: November 13, 1940 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 4.267 out of 5.00 (average of 11 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Key Tracks: “Dance of the Reed Flutes” by the Philadelphia Orchestra MD, C1 About the Movie and Soundtrack: “Walt Disney took an enormous leap with Fantasia, eschewing traditional narratives for a series of shorts set to classical music…The effort paid off handsomely: Fantasia is both a powerful artistic expression and a deeply entertaining watch. Those averse to classical music won’t be after watching studio-defining sequences like ‘The Sorcerer’s Apprentice’ and ‘Night on Bald Mountain.’” RS

Dumbo Various Artists

Released: October 23, 1941 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.458 out of 5.00 (average of 12 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Baby Mine” by Betty Noyes MD, C4, NT “Casey Junior” “Look Out for Mr. Stork” “Song of the Roustabouts” “The Clown Song” “Pink Elephants on Parade” by Disney Chorus G3, C3, GH, NT “When I See an Elephant Fly” by Jim Carmichael Edwards with Hall Johnson Choir C5, GH, UD “When I See an Elephant Fly (Reprise)” About the Movie and Soundtrack: “After finding themselves in financial difficulty after poor results for both Fantasia and Pinocchio, Disney cut back the costs on Dumbo, favoring things like watercolor paints and limiting costly special effects. While the result is more cartoonish than previous efforts, that had no impact on Disney’s exceptional storytelling…The tale of Dumbo, an elephant endlessly ridiculed and tormented for his big ears, is heartbreaking, but also inspirational – no amount of torment stops Dumbo from achieving his dreams.” RS

Bambi Various Artists

Released: August 9, 1942 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.379 out of 5.00 (average of 11 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Love Is a Song” by Donald Novis with Disney Studio Chorus MD, C1 “Little April Shower” by Mary Moder et al MD, G2, C3, GH, NT, UD “Let's Sing a Gay Little Spring Song” “Looking for Romance (I Bring You a Song)” by Donald Novis with Disney Studio Chorus C4 About the Movie and Soundtrack: “Walt Disney was an enormous advocate for nature and adapting Felix Staten’s Bambi was very much a passion project for him.” RS “A seemingly simple coming-of-age story of a deer growing up in the forest, Bambi is an unrivaled exploration of animation as an art form.” RS “Attention to detail and a focus on accuracy were essential: animators studied deer and other animals to make their animated counterparts feel as naturalistic and life-like as possible. The incredible backgrounds painted by Tyrus Wong immersed audiences deep into the forest, while the multiplane camera added remarkable depth and dimension to the animation.” RS

Key Songs: 1943-1945

1943: Saludos Amigos (animated feature): “Saludos Amigos” by Disney Studio Chorus MD 1945: The Three Caballeros (animated feature): “You Belong to My Heart” by Dora Luz (5 GA, 6 HP) MD, C5

Song of the South Various Artists

Released: November 12, 1946 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.333 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

Key Tracks: “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah” by James Baskett (5 GA, 3 HP) MD, G1, C1, GH, NT “Everybody Has a Laughing Place” by James Baskett et al MD, C2 “Song of the South” by Disney Chorus C5 About the Movie and Soundtrack: Comments here.

Key Songs: 1946-1949

1948: So Dear to My Heart (live action/animated feature): “Lavender Blue (Dilly Dilly)” by Burl Ives (2/12/1949, 16 PM, 4 GA, 4 HP, 13 CW, 16 AU) MD, C5, UD 1948: Melody Time (live action/animated feature): “The Lord Is Good to Me” by Dennis Day MD

Cinderella Various Artists

Released: February 15, 1950 Peak: 12 US Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.529 out of 5.00 (average of 11 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Cinderella” “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” by Ilene Woods MD, G2, C1, GH, NT “Oh, Sing Sweet Nightingale” by Ilene Woods & Rhoda Williams C4 “The Work Song” by The Mouse Chorus C1 “Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo” by Verna Felton et al (1/14/1950, 22 PM, 3 HP) MD, G1, C2, GH, NT, UD “So This Is Love” by Ilene Woods with Mike Douglas C2, NT “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes (Reprise)” About the Movie and Soundtrack: “After a string of mediocre results with the package films in the Wartime Era, Disney returned to the successful formula of Snow White, delivering their second princess film, Cinderella. The film ushered in the Silver Age, characterized by the return of grand narratives and artistic innovation, and what’s grander than a literal rags-to-riches tale? The film was a smash hit, and Cinderella is Disney’s most underappreciated princess; she’s no pushover and has a wide range of capabilities.” RS

Alice in Wonderland Various Artists

Released: July 26, 1951 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.093 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Alice in Wonderland” “In a World of My Own” by Kathryn Beaumont & Chorus C5 “I’m Late” by Kathryn Beaumont with Bill Thompson MD “The Sailor’s Hornpipe” “The Caucus Race” “How Do You Do and Shake Hands” “The Walrus and the Carpenter” “Old Father William” “Smoke the Blighter Out” “All in the Golden Afternoon” “A-E-I-O-U” “’Twas Brillig” “The Unbirthday Song” by Kathryn Beaumont with Jerry Colonna & Ed Wynn MD, NT, UD “Very Good Advice” “Painting the Roses Red” “The Unbirthday Song (Reprise)” “The Caucus Race (Reprise)” “Alice in Wonderland (Reprise)” About the Movie and Soundtrack: “The Disney film with the most songs — a whopping 14, though over 30 were written for the film – Alice in Wonderland is a tonally faithful adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s unpredictable novel. Disney artist Mary Blair was responsible for influencing the art direction of Alice in Wonderland, and her whimsical designs and thoughtful surrealistic touches make the film one of Disney’s most beautiful works. The characters, from the tremendously sassy flowers to the Cheshire Cat, are hugely memorable, and there’s nothing else quite like it in Disney’s 100 years — for better or worse.” RS

Peter Pan Jule Styne et al (composers)

Released: February 5, 1953 Peak: 4 US Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.381 out of 5.00 (average of 10 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “The Second Star to the Right” by Jud Conlon Chorus MD, G2, C2 “You Can Fly! You Can Fly! You Can Fly!” by Kathryn Beaumont et al MD, G1, C1, GH, NT “A Pirate’s Life” “Following the Leader” by Collins Driscoll C3, GH, UD “What Makes the Red Man Red?” “Your Mother and Mine” “The Elegant Captain Hook” About the Movie and Soundtrack: “One of the strangest Disney movies to rewatch as an adult, as just about everyone besides the crocodile and Smee are pretty nasty (especially the unbearable Peter Pan), and every female character is treated with varying forms of contempt. That doesn’t stop the whole experience from being joyful: It has a wonderful villain in the vicious Captain Hook, and the ‘You Can Fly’ sequence is still one of the most wonderful moments in Disney history. The music is largely terrific, though the song ‘What Makes the Red Man Red’ has aged horrendously – and frankly, was abhorrent even in 1953.” RS

Key Songs: 1953-1955

1954: 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea (live action feature film): “A Whale of a Tale” by Kirk Douglas MD, C1 1955: Davy Crockett (TV mini-series): “The Ballad of Davy Crockett” by The Wellingtons; radio version by Fess Parker (3/12/1955, 5 BB, 19 HP, 18 CB, 14 AU) MD, G2, C3, GH, UD

Lady and the Tramp Various Artists

Released: June 22, 1955 Peak: 14 US Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.523 out of 5.00 (average of 12 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Bella Notte (Overture)” “Peace on Earth” “Loch Lomond” “What Is a Baby” “La-La-Lu” “The Siamese Cat Song” by Peggy Lee G3, C4, NT, UD “Bella Notte” by Bill Thompson & George Givot MD, G1, C3, GH, NT “Home Sweet Home” “He’s a Tramp” by Peggy Lee G2, C5, GH, NT “Peace on Earth (reprise)” About the Movie and Soundtrack: “Though it’s now a warm slice of unabashed nostalgia, Lady and the Tramp was a considerably more contemporary film than Disney’s typical offerings. It’s best remembered for the glorious and often imitated scene where Lady and the Tramp kiss while sharing spaghetti, but the whole movie is a compelling story about the fear of becoming obsolete and finding family in unexpected places.” RS

Key Songs: 1955-1959

1955-1959: The Mickey Mouse Club (TV variety series): “Mickey Mouse March” by The Mousketeers MD, G2, C2, GH, NT, UD “Mickey Mouse Club Alma Mater” by The Mousketeers with Jimmie Dodd MD, G3, NT “I’m No Fool” by Cliff Edwards MD, C4 “Stop, Look, and Listen” by Cliff Edwards C4 “You Are a Human Animal” by Cliff Edwards MD 1956: In the Bag (animated short): “Humphrey Hop” by Corey Burton C5 1957: Disneyland theme park song: “Meet Me Down On Main Street” by The Mellomen MD 1957: Old Yeller (live action feature film): “Old Yeller” by Jerome Courtland MD 1957: Zorro (TV series): “Zorro” by The Mellomen MD 1959: Darby O’Gill and the Little People (live action feature film): “Pretty Irish Girl” by Sean Connery MD 1959: The Swamp Fox (TV mini-series): “The Swamp Fox” by Leslie Nielsen MD

Sleeping Beauty Various Artists

Released: January 29, 1959 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.347 out of 5.00 (average of 10 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Once Upon a Dream (Overture)” “Hail to the Princess Aurora” “Sleeping Beauty” “I Wonder” by Mary Costa C4 “Once Upon a Dream” by Mary Costa & Bill Shirley MD, G1, C3, UD “Skumps (Drinking Song)” “Sleeping Beauty (Reprise)” “Once Upon a Dream (Reprise)” About the Movie and Soundtrack: Sleeping Beauty “is unquestionably Disney’s most beautiful-looking movie” RS but it massively underperformed at the box office, and combined with huge expenses, the film nearly tanked the entire studio. Made to take advantage of the Super Technirama 70, animators had to work with far larger canvases than they were used to, creating exorbitant costs and significant delays. But the results were absolutely worth it.” RS “Under the guidance of the exemplary Eyvind Earle, whose work was inspired by pre-Renaissance European art, every frame is a work of art, and its unique styling, including square trees, leaves a lasting impression. It doesn’t hurt that it has one of the all-time great villains in Maleficent.” RS

101 Dalmatians Various Artists

Released: 1961 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.076 out of 5.00 (average of 11 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Cruella de Vil” by Lisa Davis with Bill Lee & Ben Wright MD, G1, C5, GH, NT, UD “Dalmatian Plantation” About the Movie and Soundtrack: You’d never know 101 Dalmatians, Disney’s first non-musical animated feature, RS “was made with budget in mind, because Ken Anderson’s art direction and edgier style match Sixties London effortlessly.” RS The movie “moves like jazz. Marc Davis’ monumental talent gave us an all-time great villain in the deranged Cruella De Vil (Betty Lou Gerson), who wants nothing more than to turn a group of adorable puppies into a glamorous fur coat.” RS

Key Songs: 1961-1963

1961: The Parent Trap (live action feature film): “Let’s Get Together” by Hayley Mills (8/25/1961, 8 BB, 12 GR, 17 UK) C1 “The Parent Trap” by Annette Funicello with Tommy Sands MD 1961: Babes In Toyland (live action feature film): “Castle In Spain” by Ray Bolger MD 1961-1969: Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color (TV series): “The Spectrum Song” by Paul Frees MD, C1 “I’m Professor Ludwig Von Drake” by Paul Frees C3 “Wonderful World of Color (Main Title)” by The Wellingtons MD “Strummin’ Song” by Annette Funicello MD “Although I Dropped $100,000 (I Found a Million Dollars in Your Smile)” by Paul Frees C4 “Mister Piano Man” by Annette Funicello MD 1962: In Search Of The Castaways (live action feature film): “Enjoy It” by Maurice Chevalier with Hayley Mills MD, C4 1963: Disneyland theme park song: “The Tiki Tiki Tiki Room” by The Mellomen et al MD, G3, C2, UD 1963: Summer Magic (live action feature film): “On The Front Porch” by Burl Ives MD, C2 “The Ugly Bug Ball” by Burl Ives C1 “Femininity” by Deborah Mills with Deborah Walley & Wendy Turner C4

The Sword in the Stone Various Artists

Released: December 25, 1963 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 2.697 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “The Sword in the Stone” “Higitus Figitus” by Ricky Sorenson & Karl Swenson MD, GH, UD “A Most Befuddling Thing” “That’s What Makes the World Go Round” “Mad Madame Mim” About the Movie and Soundtrack: “The 1960s were a curious time for Disney, which found the company trying to get back on track after the crushing expense of 1959’s Sleeping Beauty. Cutting costs was the name of the game, which is why The Sword in the Stone looks and feels so rough around the edges. Save a fantastical magic sequence between Merlin and Madam Mim, this is one of the least visually adventurous of all Disney movies. The lackluster and threadbare plot doesn’t help either.” RS

Mary Poppins Richard & Robert Sherman with Irwin Kostal (composers)

Released: August 27, 1964 Peak: 114 US, 2 UK Sales (in millions): 7.0 US Rating: 4.343 out of 5.00 (average of 17 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Key Tracks: “Supercalifragilisticexpalidocious” by Julie Andrews with Dick Van Dyke & the Pearlie Chorus (4/24/1965, 66 BB, 80 CB, 73 HR, 14 AC) MD, G1, C2, GH, NT, UD “Chim Chim Cher-ee” by Julie Andrews with Dick Van Dyke et al MD, G2, C1, NT, UD “A Spoonful of Sugar” by Julie Andrews MD, G3, C1, GH, NT “Feed the Birds (Tuppence a Bag)” by Julie Andrews C2 “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” by Dick Van Dyke with David Tomlinson C2, NT “Jolly Holiday” by Dick Van Dyke & Julie Andrews C1 “Stay Awake” by Julie Andrews C3 About the Movie and Soundtrack: Comments here. Go to the DMDB page for more about this album.

Key Songs: 1964-1967

1964: New York World’s Fair exhibit: “It’s a Small World After All” by The Disneyland Chorus MD, G2, C2, GH, NT, UD “There’s A Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” by Rex Allen MD 1965: The Monkey’s Uncle (live action feature film): “Monkey’s Uncle” by Annette Funicello MD, C1 1965: That Darn Cat (live action feature film): “That Darn Cat” by Bobby Troup MD 1966: Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree (animated short): “Winnie the Pooh” by Disney Studio Chorus MD, G2, C4

The Jungle Book Richard & Robert Sherman (composers)

Released: October 18, 1967 Peak: 19 US, 5 UK Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.706 out of 5.00 (average of 12 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Colonel Hathi’s March” by Jay Pat O’Malley with the Disney Studio Chorus C1, GH, UD “The Bare Necessities” by Phil Harris & Buce Reitherman MD, G2, C2, GH, NT, UD “I Wanna Be Like You (The Monkey Song)” by Phil Harris with Louis Prima & Bruce Reitherman MD, G1, C3, GH, NT “Colonel Hathi’s March (Reprise)” “Trust in Me (The Python’s Song)” by Sterling Holloway C3 “That’s What Friends Are For (The Vulture Song)” by Jay Pat O’Malley with Tim Hudson & Digby Wolfe C4 “My Own Home (The Jungle Book Theme)” by Darleen Carr C5 “The Bare Necessities (Reprise)” About the Movie and Soundtrack: “Yes, this film gave us ‘The Bear Necessities.’ Sure, it gave us Shere Khan, the deliciously camp villain voiced by Oscar-winner George Sanders. It’s one of Disney’s most charming efforts, but underneath that charm is… not a whole lot. Beyond some great scenes and Baloo, The Jungle Book is an undercooked story with retrograde politics that’s far less than the sum of its parts. This was Walt Disney’s final film before his passing in 1966.” RS

Key Songs: 1967-1969

1967: Disneyland theme park song for Pirates of the Caribbean: “Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life For Me)” by The Mellomen MD, G3, C5, GH, NT 1967: The Happiest Millionaire (live action feature): “Are We Dancing” by John Davidson with Lesley Ann Warren C3 “Fortuosity” by Tommy Steele MD 1968: Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day (animated short): “The Wonderful Thing about Tiggers” by Paul Winchell G3, GH, NT, UD “Heffalumps and Woozles” by The Mellomen C3 “The Rain Rain Rain Came Down Down Down” by Disney Chorus C5 1968: The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band (live action feature): “Ten Feet Off the Ground” by Buddy Ebsen et al C4 1968: The Wonderful World of Disney (TV show): “The Wonderful World of Disney (Main Title)” by George Bruns MD

The Aristocats Various Artists

Released: December 24, 1970 Peak: 137 US Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.102 out of 5.00 (average of 12 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “The Aristocats” by Maurice Chevalier MD, GH “Scales and Arpeggios” by Dean Clark with Gary Dubin & Liz English GH, NT “Thomas O’Malley Cat” by Phil Harris C4 “Everybody Wants to Be a Cat” by Phil Harris et al MD, G3, C5, GH, NT, UD About the Movie and Soundtrack: “One of Disney’s zaniest plots, The Aristocats finds longtime servant Edgar trying to kill off a group of cats that stand between him and a vast fortune. It all could have been easily avoided if Edgar applied literally any common sense, but nevertheless, there’s so much fun to be had in The Aristocats. The opening song, performed by Maurice Chevalier (who came out of retirement for this), and the spectacular psychedelics of ‘Everybody Wants to Be a Cat’ are real highlights. The plot barely sustains itself, but there’s so much fun to be had in this cast of characters, with supporters like Abigail and Amelia the geese and Roquefort the mouse providing pure delight.” RS

Bedknobs and Broomsticks Richard & Robert Sherman with Irwin Kostal (composers)

Released: December 13, 1971 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.100 out of 5.00 (average of 10 ratings)

Key Tracks: “The Age of Not Believing” by Angela Lansbury MD, C2 “Portobello Road” by Angela Lansbury & David Tomlinson C3 “Substitutiary Locomotion” by Angela Lansbury et al C4 “A Step in the Right Direction” by Angela Lansbury C5 “Nobody’s Problems” by Angela Lansbury MD “The Beautiful Briny” by David Tomlinson, Angela Lansbury, & the Beautiful Briny Band GH, UD About the Movie and Soundtrack: Comments here.

Robin Hood Various Artists

Released: November 8, 1973 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.141 out of 5.00 (average of 11 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Oo-De-Lally” by Roger Miller MD, C3, GH, UD “Love” by Nancy Adams C4 “The Phony King of England” “Not In Nottingham” About the Movie and Soundtrack: “The film that launched a thousand furries, Robin Hood is one sly fox. Beyond an impressive cast of characters, however, the film is barely there. It feels more like a collection of vaguely connected sketches rather than a coherent feature, and the film certainly bears the signs of a studio in deep turmoil. That’s too bad, because this should have been something truly special, and features ‘Love,’ one of Disney’s best songs.” RS

Pete’s Dragon Various Artists

Released: November 3, 1977 Peak: 131 US Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 2.966 out of 5.00 (average of # ratings)

Key Tracks: “Candle on the Water” by Helen Reddy (12/24/1977, 27 AC) MD, C2 “Boo Bop Bopbop Bop (I Love You, Too)” by Sean Marshall & Charlie Callas C5 About the Movie and Soundtrack: Comments here.

Key Songs: 1977-1982

1977: The Rescuers (animated feature): “Someone’s Waiting for You” by Shelby Flint MD 1979: Disneyland theme song: “Main Street Electrical Parade” by Jean Jacques Perry & Gershon Kingsley MD, C2 1981: The Fox and the Hound (animated feature): “Best of Friends” by Pearl Bailey MD, G3, C2, UD 1982: Epcot Center theme song: “Golden Dream” by Richard Page & Marti McCall MD

Oliver & Company Various Artists

Released: November 11, 1988 Peak: 170 US Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 2.395 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Why Should I Worry?” by Billy Joel “Why Should I Worry? (Reprise)” “Streets of Gold” “Once Upon a Time in New York City” by Huey Lewis NT “Perfect Isn’t Easy” by Bette Midler MD “Good Company” About the Movie and Soundtrack: This Disney animated feature was based on Charles Dickens’ novel Oliver Twist. Oliver (voiced by Joey Lawrence) is a homeless kitten who joins up with a gang of dogs led by Dodger (voiced by Billy Joel) to survive the streets of New York City. It grossed $121 million worldwide. No songs from the soundtrack were released as singles, despite it boasting material from Billy Joel, Huey Lewis, and Bette Midler. A specific effort was made to make the songs extensions of different characters in the film instead of making the film a musical where the story would be disrupted by songs.

The Little Mermaid Alan Menken (music) & Howard Ashman (lyrics)

Released: October 19, 1989 Peak: 32 US, -- UK, -- CN, -- AU Sales (in millions): 6.0 US, -- UK, 7.15 world (includes US + UK) Rating: 3.649 out of 5.00 (average of 7 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Fathoms Below” by Ship’s Chorus “Daughters of Triton” by Kimmy Robertson “Part of Your World” by Joni Benson MD, G3, C2, NT “Part of Your World (Reprise)” “Under the Sea” by Samuel E. Wright MD, G2, C1, GH, NT “Poor Unfortunate Souls” by Joni Benson & Pat Carroll G3, C1 “Les Poissons” by Rene Auberjonois C3 “Kiss the Girl” by Samuel E. Wright MD, G1, C1, NT, UD About the Movie and Soundtrack: Disney’s animated feature The Little Mermaid is generally viewed as the movie that restored Disney to glory. The story is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s 1837 Danish fairy tale of the same name. Broadway veterans Alan Menken and Howard Ashman signed on the create the soundtrack. It was a huge success, eventually certified for sales of six million. “Under the Sea” won an Oscar for Best Original Song.

Key Songs: 1990

1990: Tale Spin (animated TV series): “Tale Spin Theme” by Jeff Gilstrap MD 1990: Duck Tales (animated TV series): “Duck Tales Theme” by Jeff Pescetto MD

Beauty and the Beast Alan Menken (music) & Howard Ashman (lyrics)

Released: October 29, 1991 Peak: 19 US, -- UK, 50 CN, 14 AU Sales (in millions): 3.0 US, 0.06 UK, 3.65 world (includes US + UK) Rating: 4.355 out of 5.00 (average of 9 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Belle” by Richard White C5, NT “Belle (Reprise)” “Be Our Guest” by Angela Lansbury & Jerry Orbach MD, G2, C2, GH, NT “Gaston” by Richard White & Jessi Corti G3, C2 “Gaston (Reprise)” “Something There” by Paige O’Hara & Robby Benson C2 “Human Again” “Beauty and the Beast (Tale As Old As Time)” – movie version by Angela Lansbury, radio version by Celine Dion & Peabo Bryson (11/6/1991, 9 BB, 9 CB, 6 RR, 3 AC, 9 UK, 2 CN, 17 AU) MD, G1, C1, GH, NT “The Mob Song” by Original Cast C3 “Beauty and the Beast (Finale)” About the Movie and Soundtrack: The Disney animated feature Beauty and the Beast was adapted from the fairy tale of the same name. The story is set in 18th-century France. The Beast (voiced by Robby Benson) is a prince who changed into a monster as punishment. To break the spell, he must win the love of Belle (voiced by Paige O’Hara), a young woman from the local village. It became the first animated film to gross more than $100 million in the United States. It was also the first to be nominated for an Oscar for Best Picture. Composer Alan Menken and lyricist Howard Ashman returned here after lifting Disney back to glory with The Little Mermaid. Ashman died of AIDS before the film and album were completed. “Beauty and the Beast” won the Oscar for Best Original Song and the soundtrack was nominated for a Grammy for Album of the Year.

The Music of Disney: A Legacy in Song Disney

Recorded: 1926-1991 Released: September 14, 1992 Peak: -- US, -- UK, -- CN, -- AU, 12 DF Sales (in millions): 1.0 US Rating: 4.539 out of 5.00 (average of 16 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

About the Album: This is the reason box sets exist. This “beautifuly packaged three-CD box set” AM gathers eight decade’s worth of songs from Disney movies, shorts, TV shows, and theme park music. “Since the Disney catalog is in a state of constant change, this is the only place to get some songs that aren’t currently available; these days it’s a rare treat to hear Cruella De Vil from 101 Dalmatians…and Annette’s theme from The Monkey's Uncle” AZ and all in one place. There are an abundance of classic songs, including “When You Wish Upon a Star” from Pinocchio, “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah” from Song of the South, “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” from Mary Poppins, and the earworm of all earworms which plays incessantly at Disney theme parks – “It’s a Small World After All.” There’s also music from a myriad of Disney movie favorites, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Bambi, and Cinderella up through modern classics like The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast. See “The Songs” on this page for the full listing of tracks that appear on this compilation. The wide array of performers includes Julie Andrews, Pearl Bailey, George Burns, Maurice Chevalier, Sean Connery, Kirk Douglas, Annette Funicello, Burl Ives, Angela Lansbury, Bette Midler, Roger Miller, Louis Prima, Helen Reddy, and Dick Van Dyke. AZ “Disney buffs will love this set, although there are some popular songs missing.” AM “Overall, The Music of Disney: A Legacy in Song proves how significant the music from Disney’s films and television shows were to popular music and popular culture in general.” AM

Aladdin Alan Menken (music) & Tim Rice (lyrics)

Released: October 31, 1992 Peak: 6 US, 11 UK, 17 CN, 15 AU Sales (in millions): 3.0 US, 0.06 UK, 4.28 world (includes US + UK) Rating: 4.148 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Arabian Nights” “One Jump Ahead” by Brad Kane C2, NT, UD “One Jump Ahead (Reprise)” “Friend Like Me” by Robin Williams GH, NT “Prince Ali” by Robin Williams “Prince Ali (Reprise)” “A Whole New World” – movie version by Bad Kane & Lea Salonga, radio version by Peabo Bryson & Regina Belle (11/21/1992, 14 BB, 2 CB, 11 GR, 13 RR, 16 AC, 21 RB, 12 UK, 6 CN, 10 AU) G1, C1, GH, NT About the Movie and Soundtrack: Disney’s animated feature was based on the Arabic folktale “Aladdin” from One Thousand and One Nights. It famously featured the voice of Robin Williams as the genie who grants wishes to a street urchin (voiced by Scott Weinger, singing by Brad Kane) to help him win the heart of Princess Jasmine (voiced by Linda Larkin, singing by Lea Salonga). Alan Menken composed the music with lyricist Tim Rice, who’d famously worked with Andrew Lloyd Webber on Broadway smashes Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita. “A Whole New World” won the Grammy for Song of the Year, the only Disney song to do so.

Key Songs: 1992-1993

1992: Disneyland show: “Fantasmic!” by Disneyland Chorus C4 1992: Newsies (live action musical feature): “Seize the Day” by David Moscow and the Newsies C5 1993: The Nightmare Before Christmas (animated feature): “What’s This?” by Danny Elfman G3, C5, NT “Jack’s Lament” by Danny Elfman C3 “Oogie Boogie’s Song” by Ken Page & Ed Ivory C4

The Lion King Elton John (music), Tim Rice (lyrics)

Released: May 30, 1994 Peak: 110 US, 4 UK, 15 CN, 3 AU Sales (in millions): 11.0 US, 0.30 UK, 17.40 world (includes US + UK) Rating: 3.867 out of 5.00 (average of 21 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Circle of Life” – movie version by Carmen Twillie & Lebo M, radio version by Elton John (8/9/1994, 18 BB, 15 BA, 25 CB, 10 GR, 16 RR, 2 AC, 11 UK, 3 CN, 60 AU) G1, C1, GH, NT, UD “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” – movie version by Jason Weaver et al, radio version by Elton John C1, NT, UD “Be Prepared” by Jeremy Irons et al C3 “Hakuna Matata” by Nathan Lane, Ernie Sabella, et al G2, C1, GH, NT, UD “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” – movie version by Joseph Williams, radio version by Elton John (5/20/1994, 4 BB, 2 BA, 4 CB, 11 GR, 3 RR, 18 AC, 14 UK, 14 CN, 9 AU) G3, C2, GH, NT “Circle of Life (Reprise)” About the Movie and Soundtrack: The Lion King was a Disney animated feature that, unlike most of their works, was an original story, although it does draw inspiration from William Shakespeare’s Hamlet. It grossed $763 million worldwide, making it the second highest-grossing film of all time. Pop singer/songwriter Elton John was tapped to write the music alongside lyricist Tim Rice, who also wrote the lyrics for Disney’s previous animated film, Aladdin. “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” won the Oscar for Best Original Song. The album also won three Grammys. The Lion King became Disney’s best-selling soundtrack ever. Go to the DMDB page for more about this album.

Classic Disney Volume I Disney

Recorded: 1930-1994 Released: March 28, 1995 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.858 out of 5.00 (average of # ratings)

About the Album: See “The Songs” on this page for tracks that appear on this compilation. In 2003, a box set was released that combined all five volumes of Classic Disney. See that full track listing here.

Classic Disney Volume II Disney

Recorded: 1933-1994 Released: September 12, 1995 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 4.013 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

About the Album: See “The Songs” on this page for tracks that appear on this compilation. In 2003, a box set was released that combined all five volumes of Classic Disney. See that full track listing here.

Key Songs: 1995-1996

1994: Beauty and the Beast (Broadway musical): “Home” by Susan Egan C4 “If I Can’t Love Her” by Terrence Man C5 1995: A Goofy Movie (animated feature): “On the Open Road” by Bill Farmer with Aaron Lohr & Chorus C4

Pocahontas Alan Menken (music) & Stephen Schwartz (lyrics)

Released: May 23, 1995 Peak: 11 US, -- UK, 3 CN, 19 AU Sales (in millions): 3.0 US, -- UK, 4.12 world (includes US + UK) Rating: 3.490 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “The Virginia Company” “The Virginia Company (Reprise)” “Steady As the Beating Drum (Main Title)” by Disney Chorus C5 “Steady as the Beating Drum (Reprise)” “Just Around the Riverbend” by Judy Khan G1, C4, NT “Listen to Your Heart I” “Listen to Your Heart II” “Mine, Mine, Mine” by David Ogden Stiers & Mel Gibson C3 “Colors of the Wind” – movie version by Judy Kuhn, radio version by Vanessa Wiliams (6/17/1995, 4 BB, 6 CB, 16 RR, 2 AC, 21 UK) G2, C3, GH, NT “If I Never Knew You” “Savages (Part 1)” “Savages (Part 2)” “If I Never Knew You (End Title)” About the Movie and Soundtrack: This Disney animated feature was loosely based on the life of Pocahontas, a native American woman who legend says saved John Smith’s life. Smith was the leader of the Viriginia Colony in 1608-09. This was Alan Menken’s fourth soundtrack with Disney, but his first time to be paired with lyricist Stephen Schwartz. Howard Ashman, with whom Menken had previously worked, died before the making of Pocahontas. “Colors of the Wind” won the Oscar for Best Original Song.

Key Songs: 1995-1996

1995: Toy Story (animated feature): “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by Lyle Lovett & Randy Newman G1, C3, GH, NT “I Will Go Sailing No More” by Randy Newman C4 “Strange Things” by Randy Newman C5 1996: James and the Giant Peach (live action/animated feature): “Family” by Original Cast C3 “My Name Is James” by Paul Terry & Drew Hannah C3 “Eating the Peach” by Paul Terry et al C5

The Hunchback of Notre Dame Alan Menken (music) & Stephen Schwartz (lyrics)

Released: May 28, 1996 Peak: 11 US, -- UK, 38 CN, -- AU Sales (in millions): 1.0 US, -- UK, 1.13 world (includes US + UK) Rating: 2.997 out of 5.00 (average of 7 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “The Bells of Notre Dame” by Tony Jay et al G2 “Out There” by Tony Jay & Tom Hulce G1, C3 “Topsy Turvy” by Paul Kandel G3 “God Help the Outcasts” movie version by Heidi Mollenhauer, radio version by Bette Midler C5 “Heaven’s Light” “Hellfire” “A Guy Like You” by Jason Alexander et al C4 “The Court of Miracles” “The Bells of Notre Dame (Finale)” “Someday” by All-4-One (6/26/1996, 30 BB, 30 CB, 41 RR, 14 AC) GH About the Movie and Soundtrack: Disney’s animated feature was based on the 1831 novel of the same name by Victor Hugo. The story follows Quasimodo (voiced by Tom Hulce), the deformed bell-ringer of Notre Dame who wants to explore the outside world and be accepted by society. The music for the soundtrack was composed by Alan Menken. Stephen Schwartz wrote the lyrics. He left Disney after this soundtrack to write songs for The Prince of Egypt for Dreamworks. He returned to Disney in 2007 for the Enchanted soundtrack.

Classic Disney Volume III Disney

Recorded: 1937-1996 Released: July 2, 1996 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.387 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

About the Album: See “The Songs” on this page for tracks that appear on this compilation. In 2003, a box set was released that combined all five volumes of Classic Disney. See that full track listing here.

Hercules Alan Menken (music) and David Zippel (lyrics)

Released: May 27, 1997 Peak: 37 US, -- UK, 88 CN, -- AU Sales (in millions): 0.5 US, 0.06 UK, 0.61 world (includes US + UK) Rating: 2.981 out of 5.00 (average of 7 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “The Gospel Truth (Main Title)” “The Gospel Truth II” “The Gospel Truth III” “Go the Distance” movie version by Roger Bart, radio version by Michael Bolton (5/24/1997, 24 BB, 13 AC, 14 UK, 26 CN) G2 “Go the Distance (Reprise)” “One Last Hope” by Danny DeVito C4 “Zero to Hero” by Lillias White with Roz Ryan & Cheryl Freeman NT “I Won’t Say I’m in Love” movie version by Susan Egan et al, radio version by Belinda Carlisle G1, C5, GH, NT, UD “A Star Is Born” by Jocelyn Brown GH, NT “Shooting Star” by Boyzone * GH * not on the original soundtrack but included later About the Movie and Soundtrack: This Disney animated feature was loosely based on Hercules (voiced by Tate Donovan), the son of the god Jupiter in Roman mythology. The soundtrack’s best-known song was “Go the Distance,” which was nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song as well as a Golden Globe for Best Original Song. Both awards were won by “My Heart Will Go On.”

Classic Disney Volume IV Disney

Recorded: 1937-1997 Released: July 15, 1997 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.465 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

About the Album: See “The Songs” on this page for tracks that appear on this compilation. In 2003, a box set was released that combined all five volumes of Classic Disney. See that full track listing here.

Key Songs: 1997-1998

1997: The Lion King (Broadway show): “They Live in You” by Jason Raize NT 1998: The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride (direct-to-video animated feature): “He Lives in You” by Lebo M G3, GH “We Are One” by Angelique Kidjo GH

Mulan Matthew Wilder (music) & David Zippel (lyrics)

Released: June 2, 1998 Peak: 24 US, -- UK, 59 CN, -- AU Sales (in millions): 0.5 US Rating: 2.955 out of 5.00 (average of 7 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Honor to Us All” “Reflection” – movie version by Lea Salonga, radio version by Christina Aguilera (7/25/1998, 19 AC) G1, GH, NT “I’ll Make a Man Out of You” by Donny Osmond G2, C5 “A Girl Worth Fighting For” “True to Your Heart” by Stevie Wonder & 98 Degrees (6/12/1998, 38 RR, 51 UK) About the Movie and Soundtrack: This animated feature is based on the Chinese legend of Hua Mulan (voiced by Ming-Na Wen, singing voice by Lea Salonga) who joined the military by disguising herself as a man. It grossed over $300 million worldwide. Originally Stephen Schwartz, who’d worked on Pocahontas and The Hunchback of Notre Dame was slated to write music for the film, but he was wooed to Dreamworks by former Disney studio chairman Jeffrey Katzenberg to compose songs for The Prince of Egypt. Matthew Wilder, best known for the top-5 hit “Break My Stride” in 1983, was enlisted instead after Disney music executive Chris Montan heard Wilder’s demo for a stage musical adaptation of Anne Rice’s Cry to Heaven. David Zippel, who previously worked on Hercules, returned as lyricist.

Classic Disney Volume V Disney

Recorded: 1940-1998 Released: September 22, 1998 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.429 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

About the Album: See “The Songs” on this page for tracks that appear on this compilation. In 2003, a box set was released that combined all five volumes of Classic Disney. See that full track listing here.

Tarzan Phil Collins

Released: May 18, 1999 Peak: 5 US, -- UK, -- CN, -- AU Sales (in millions): 2.0 US, -- UK, 4.5 world (includes US + UK), 8.01 EAS Rating: 3.243 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Two Worlds” by Phil Collins “You’ll Be in My Heart” movie version by Glenn Close, radio version by Phil Collins (4/24/1999, 21 BB, 36 RR, 119 AC, 21 A40, 17 UK, 16 CN, 43 AU) G2, GH “Son of Man” by Phil Collins “Two Worlds (Reprise)” “Trashin’ the Camp” movie version by Rosie O’Donnell & Phil Collins, radio version by N’Sync “Strangers Like Me” by Phil Collins (11/27/1999, 10 AC) G1 About the Movie and Soundtrack: After experiencing monstrous success with Elton John composing songs for The Lion King, Disney turned to another proven pop star for Tarzan. Phil Collins couldn’t replicate the success of The Lion King (what could?) but it was still a multi-platinum worldwide seller and generated the monstrous #1 adult contemporary hit “You’ll Be in My Heart.”

Disney’s Greatest Volume 1 Disney

Recorded: 1937-1999 Released: February 27, 2001 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 4.323 out of 5.00 (average of 7 ratings)

About the Album: See “The Songs” on this page for tracks that appear on this compilation.

Disney’s Greatest Volume 2 Disney

Recorded: 1937-1999 Released: February 27, 2001 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 4.267 out of 5.00 (average of 7 ratings)

About the Album: See “The Songs” on this page for tracks that appear on this compilation.

Key Songs: 1999-2002

1999: Toy Story 2 (animated feature): “When She Loved Me” by Sarah McLachlan G3, NT 1999: Disneyland Paris resort theme song: “Dancin’ (A Catchy Rhythm)” by Sue Anne Carwell & Joey Diggs GH, UD 2000: The Tigger Movie (animated feature): “Whoop-De-Dooper Bounce” by Jim Cummings & Nikita Hopkins UD 2001: Monsters Inc. (animated feature): “If I Didn’t Have You” by Billy Crystal & John Goodman GH 2002: Return to Never Land (animated feature): “I’ll Try” by Jonatha Brooke (9/30/2002, 29 AC) G3, GH, NT 2002: Lilo & Stitch (animated feature): “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” by Mark Keali’I Ho’omalu with Kamehameha Schools Children’s Chorus NT, UD “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by A*Teens GH

Disney’s Greatest Volume 3 Disney

Recorded: 1933-2002 Released: August 20, 2002 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.862 out of 5.00 (average of 7 ratings)

About the Album: See “The Songs” on this page for tracks that appear on this compilation.

Brother Bear Phil Collins and Mark Mancina (composers)

Released: October 21, 2003 Peak: 52 US, -- UK, -- CN, -- AU Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 2.857 out of 5.00 (average of 11 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “Look Through My Eyes” by Phil Collins (9/27/2003, 5 AC) “Great Spirits” by Tina Turner “Welcome” by Phil Collins GH “No Way Out” by Phil Collins (3/22/2004, --) “Transformation” first version by the Bulgarian Woman’s Choir, second version by Phil Collins “On My Way” first version by Phil Collins, second version by Collins with Blind Boys of Alabama & Oren Waters GH About the Movie and Soundtrack: Pop star Phil Collins returns to the Disney fold after first working with them on 1999’s Tarzan. As on that soundtrack, Collins serves as a composer but also contributes vocals to a few songs. Nothing here was as big as “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan although “Look Through My Eyes” was a top-5 adult contemporary hit.

Key Songs: 2003-2004

2003: Finding Nemo (animated feature): “Beyond the Sea” by Robbie Williams GH 2003: Piglet’s Big Movie (animated feature): “With a Few Good Friends” by Carly Simon with Ben Taylor & Sally Taylor GH 2003: 101 Dalmatians II: Patch’s London Adventure (direct-to-video): “One of a Kind” by Apollo 440 GH, UD 2003: The Jungle Book 2 (animated feature): “Jungle Rhythm” by Haley Joel Osmont et al GH, UD 2004: The Lion King 1 ½ (direct-to-video animated feature): “Digga Tunnah Dance” by Lebo M & Vinx UD

Disney’s Greatest Hits Disney

Recorded: 1933-2003 Released: 2005 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 3.463 out of 5.00 (average of 4 ratings)

About the Album: This 3-disc box set contains plenty of great material, although some of the songs are covers (albeit by some big names like Louis Armstrong and Tina Turner) instead of the originals. See “The Songs” on this page for tracks that appear on this compilation.

Ultimate Disney Disney

Recorded: 1937-2004 Released: April 29, 2013 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 4.262 out of 5.00 (average of 7 ratings)

About the Album: While this three-CD set is the most recent compilation on this page, it only covers up through 2004 while Now That’s What I Call Disney stretches to 2011. See “The Songs” on this page for tracks that appear on this compilation.

Key Songs: 2006

2006: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (feature film): “He’s a Pirate” by Klaus Badelt (7/29/2006, 40 UK) NT 2006: Hannah Montana (TV show): “The Best of Both Worlds” by Miley Cyrus (8/12/2006, 92 BB) NT

High School Musical Various Artists

Released: January 10, 2006 Peak: 12 US, 1 UK, -- CN, 13 AU Sales (in millions): 5.0 US, 1.2 UK, 9.44 world (includes US + UK), 12.97 EAS Rating: 3.941 out of 5.00 (average of 24 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Key Tracks: “Breaking Free” by Zac Efron with Vanessa Hudgens & Drew Seeley (2/4/2006, 4 BB, 11 DG, 9 UK) NT “Get’cha Head in the Game” by Drew Seeley (2/4/2006, 23 BB) “We’re All in This Together” by High School Musical Cast (2/11/2006, 34 BB, 40 UK) “What I’ve Been Looking For” by Lucas Grabeel & Ashley Tisdale (2/11/2006, 35 BB) “Start of Something New” by Zac Efron, Drew Seeley, & Vanessa Hudgens (2/11/2006, 28 BB) “Stick to the Status Quo” by High School Musical Cast (2/11/2006, 43 BB) “What I’ve Been Looking For (Reprise)” by Zac Efron & Vanessa Hudgens (2/11/2006, 67 BB) “Bop to the Top” by Lucas Grabeel & Ashley Tisdale (2/11/2006, 62 BB) “When There Was Me and You” by Vanessa Hudgens (2/11/2006, 72 BB) About the Movie and Soundtrack: High School Musical was a made-for-TV movie that aired on the Disney channel. Modeled after Grease, the story focused on shy transfer student Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens) and basketball star Troy (Zac Efron) trying out for the lead parts in their high school musical. While the songs aren’t riveting, they caught fire with their intended audience and made the soundtrack a #1, multi-platinum smash. Go to the DMDB page for more about this album.

Cars Various artists

Released: June 6, 2006 Peak: 6 US, -- UK, 41 CN, -- AU Sales (in millions): 1.0 US, -- UK, 1.24 world (includes US + UK) Rating: 4.216 out of 5.00 (average of 9 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Key Tracks: “Life Is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts (6/6/2006, 7 BB, 18 CW) “Real Gone” by Sheryl Crow (6/6/2006, --) “Our Town” by James Taylor (6/6/2006, --) About the Movie and Soundtrack: The typical Disney soundtrack is fueled by a pairing of Broadway veteran composers alongside vocal work from celebrated actors from film and stage. The Cars soundtrack was a more conventional soundtrack that loaded up an album with performances from well-known recording acts. This one included Sheryl Crow, John Mayer, Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts, and James Taylor – as well as a score from Randy Newman. This Disney/Pixar computer-animated film came out when my kids were preschool age. They loved it. I loved it. It became my favorite soundtrack from a Disney film – probably because my kids loved hearing it over and over.

Enchanted Alan Menken (music), Stephen Schwartz (lyrics)

Released: November 20, 2007 Peak: 39 US, -- UK, -- CN, -- AU Sales (in millions): 0.5 US Rating: 3.417 out of 5.00 (average of 6 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “True Love's Kiss” “Happy Working Song” by Amy Adams NT “That’s How You Know” by Amy Adams NT “So Close” “Ever Ever After” by Carrie Underwood “That’s Amore” About the Movie and Soundtrack: Enchanted was a live action/animated feature about a Disney princess named Giselle (Amy Adams) who is exiled from the animated world to New York City. It is considered both an homage and self-parody of Disney’s animated feature films. The soundtrack consisted primarily of a score by Alan Menken alongside five vocal tracks. It also marked the return of lyricist Stephen Schwartz, who had last worked with Disney on 1996’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

Key Songs: 2007-2009

2007: Meet the Robinsons (animated feature): “Little Wonders” by Rob Thomas (2/17/2007, 58 BB, 47 RR, 11 AC, 5 A40) 2009: The Princess and the Frog (animated feature): “Almost There” by Anika Noni Rose NT 2009: Hannah Montana: The Movie (live action feature): “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus (2/15/2009, 4 BB, 5 RR, 115 AC, 5 A40, 25 CW, 11 UK, 5 AU)

Tangled Alan Menken (music), Glenn Slater (lyrics)

Released: November 16, 2010 Peak: 44 US, -- UK, -- CN, -- AU Sales (in millions): 1.0 US, 0.1 UK, 1.1 world (includes US + UK) Rating: 3.296 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

Non-Orchestral Vocal Tracks: “When Will My Life Begin?” by Mandy Moore NT “Mother Knows Best” “When Will My Life Begin (Reprise 2)” “I’ve Got a Dream” “Mother Knows Best (Reprise)” “I See the Light” by Mandy Moore & Zachary Levi NT “Healing Incantation” “Something That I Want” About the Movie and Soundtrack: This animated feature is loosely based on the Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale “Rapunzel” with Mandy Moore voicing the titular role. At $260 million, it became the most expensive animated feature film ever made. It grossed nearly $600 million worldwide. Composer Alan Menken, who returned Disney to glory with his work on The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, and Pocohontas, comes back here but not with quite the same results. The soundtrack did go platinum but peaked at a lowly #46, a far cry from the chart-busting soundtracks of Disney in the ‘90s. “I See the Light” won a Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media.

Key Songs: 2010-2013

2010: Toy Story 3 (animated feature): “We Belong Together” by Randy Newman NT 2011: The Muppets (feature film): “Man or Muppet” by Jason Segal et al (11/22/2011, --) NT

Now That’s What I Call Disney Disney

Recorded: 1937-2011 Released: December 27, 2011 Peak: -- Sales (in millions): -- Rating: 4.494 out of 5.00 (average of 8 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

About the Album: This 3-CD set covers 1937 to 2011, which makes it the most up-to-date collection highlighted on this page. See “The Songs” on this page for tracks that appear on this compilation.

Frozen Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez (composers)

Released: November 25, 2013 Peak: 113 US, 1 UK, 17 CN, 12 AU Sales (in millions): 4.9 US, 1.01 UK, 10.0 world (includes US + UK), 22.51 EAS Rating: 4.363 out of 5.00 (average of 16 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Key Tracks: “Let It Go” by Demi Lovato (1/21/2013, 38 BB, 42 UK, 31 CN, 25 AU), by Idina Menzel (11/25/2013, 5 BB, 47 RR, 9 AC, 20 A40, 20 AA, 11 UK, 18 CN, 16 AU) “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” by Kristen Bell et al (1/11/2014, 51 BB) “For the First Time in Forever” by Kristen Bell & Idina Menzel (1/11/2014, 57 BB) “Love Is an Open Door” by Kristen Bell & Santino Fontana (3/29/2014, 49 BB) About the Movie and Soundtrack: The movie was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s 1844 fairy tale “The Snow Queen.” Princess Anna (Kristen Bell) journeys to find her estranged sister Elsa (Idina Menzel) after accidentally using her icy powers to trap their kingdom in eternal winter. It took in more than a billion dollars worldwide to become the highest-grossing animated film of all time and the fifth-highest-grossing film ever. The song “Let It Go” won the Oscar for Best Original Song and became an iconic song for a generation. Go to the DMDB page for more about this album.

Moana Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mark Mancina, Opetaia Foa’i (composers)

Released: November 19, 2016 Peak: 2 US, 7 UK, 4 CN, 2 AU Sales (in millions): 2.0 US, 0.1 UK, 2.10 world (includes US + UK), 7.88 EAS Rating: 4.487 out of 5.00 (average of 10 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Key Tracks: “How Far I’ll Go” by Auli’i Cravalho (12/17/2016, 41 BB), Alessia Cara (12/17/2016, 56 BB) “You’re Welcome” by Dwayne Johnson (12/17/2016, 65 BB) “We Know the Way” by Opetaia Foa’i & Lin-Manuel Miranda (12/17/2016, 93 BB) About the Movie and Soundtrack: This was yet another high-charting, platinum-selling soundtrack for Disney. The song “You’re Welcome” by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson (who voiced the character of Maui) proved immensely popular, despite failing to reach the top 40. It racked up four million in sales and more than a billion You Tube views. “How Far I’ll Go” won the Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media.

Frozen II Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez (composers)

Released: November 15, 2019 Peak: 11 US, 1 UK, 4 CN, 2 AU Sales (in millions): 2.0 US, 0.3 UK, 2.3 world (includes US + UK), 2.34 EAS Rating: 3.644 out of 5.00 (average of 7 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Key Tracks: “Into the Unknown” by Idina Menzel & Aurora (11/4/2019, 46 BB), and Panic! At the Disco (11/4/2019, 98 BB, 74 UK, 33 CN, 36 AU) “Show Yourself” by Idina Menzel & Evan Rachel Wood (12/7/2019, 70 BB) About the Movie and Soundtrack: The phenomenal success of Frozen in 2013 set up an obvious cash cow sequel. Frozen 2 spawned another #1 multi-platinum soundtrack, but it still fell far short of its predecessor – most notably in failing to churn out an iconic hit to match “Let It Go” from the first movie. Still, Idina Menzel delivered the biggest hit once again, this time with “Into the Unknown.” While it failed to even each the top 40, it was still certified for sales of four million in the U.S.

Encanto Lin-Manuel Miranda (composer)

Released: November 19, 2021 Peak: 19 US, 1 UK, 19 CN, 11 AU Sales (in millions): 1.0 US, 0.1 UK, 1.10 world (includes US + UK), 3.17 EAS Rating: 4.242 out of 5.00 (average of 13 ratings)

Awards: (Click on award to learn more).

Key Tracks: “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” by Encanto Cast (11/19/2021, 15 BB, 11 DG, 113 ST, 17 AC, 20 AA, 17 UK, 3 CN, 5 AU) “Surface Pressure” by Jessica Darrow (1/6/2022, 8 BB, 3 UK) “The Family Madrigal” by Stephanie Beatriz, Olga Merediz, & Encanto Cast (1/15/2022, 20 BB, 7 UK) “What Else Can I Do?” by Diane Guerrero & Stephanie Beatriz (1/15/2022, 27 BB, 29 UK) “Dos Oruguitas” by Sebastian Yatra (1/15/2022, 36 BB) “Waiting on a Miracle” by Stephane Beatriz (1/15/2022, 48 BB) “All of You” with Stephanie Beatriz et al (1/15/2022, 71 BB) About the Movie and Soundtrack: Disney turned to Lin-Manuel Miranda, best known for the Broadway smash Hamilton, to pen the tunes for the animated feature Encanto. It paid off with a #1 soundtrack that featured “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” the biggest chart hit in the history of Disney. The last time a Disney song reached #1 was 1992’s “A Whole New World” from Aladdin.

Resources/References: AM AllMusic.com “The Music of Disney” review by Stephen Thomas Erlewine AZ Amazon.com “The Music of Disney” review by John Sanchez Discogs.com “Ultimate Disney” Disneyfandom.com “Disney’s Greatest” DVDizzy Forum “The Complete List of Disney Animated Classics Original Songs” The-Numbers.com (2025). “All Time Worldwide Box Office for Walt Disney Movies” RS RollingStone.com (11/22/2023). “Every Walt Disney Animated Movie, Ranked” by Barry Levitt Wikipedia.org “The Music of Disney: A Legacy in Song” Wikipedia.org “Classic Disney: 60 Years of Musical Magic” Wikipedia.org “Now That’s What I Call Disney” Related DMDB Links: First posted 11/17/2020; last updated 10/15/2025.