Animated Disney films have a way of bringing back memories and having audiences dream the fairytale was true. Putting aside the romance and the magic, these films are also well known for their music. No Disney film is complete without a catchy song to sing along to.
Over the years, Disney has developed and produced songs that have inspired thousands around the world. Some songs that inspire those to achieve their dreams, fight the good fight or even stand up for oneself. Everyone needs an inspirational song to get through and Disney has plenty to pick from.
"Try Everything" (Zootopia)
Zootopia isn't a Disney film back from the 1900s, but its main soundtrack song, "Try Everything" holds an inspirational message. The 2016 film featured the song by Shakira. The lyrics talk about failure and messing up, but getting back up again. The film's story revolved around two animal main characters who are seen as invaluable in their society.
One, in particular, couldn't seem to make people believe in her but she kept trying. The song lyrics talk about this exact inspirational lesson. A person may fail and fall a million times, but what counts is getting back up.
"Hakuna Matata" (The Lion King)
"Hakuna Matata" is one of the most recognized songs from Disney. It made its appearance in the highly acclaimed 1994 film, The Lion King. The music was written by Elton John and the lyrics by Tim Rice. The song focused on the meaning of "Hakuna Matata" and how it can be beneficial in how to look at life.
Sung by Timon and Pumbaa, the phrase ties back to Swahili meaning "no worries." The song talks about not letting things get you down and to go in life freely. The best way to live life is by being happy and to not let the bad things in life hinder your future.
"A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes" (Cinderella)
Everyone who is a Disney fan would recall the song "A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes." It's sung by Cinderella in the original 1950s film. Cinderella is a real rag to riches story about a girl with a pure and good heart. Despite her bad forthcomings, Cinderella has an optimistic mind and its explained with the song.
The song has inspired many to not let go of their dreams. Cinderella sings about dreams one day coming true just as long as you keep believing in them despite the heartache. It's the perfect song for anyone who's doubting themselves and needs a pick me up. The song
"Dig A Little Deeper" (Princess And The Frog)
Princess and The Frog holds many valuable and inspirational messages and one of them comes from Mama Odie. "Dig a Little Deeper" inspires people to look for their true selves. She sings, "You gotta dig a little deeper. Find out who you are." The beginning of the song also talks about not worrying about looks or the clothes you wear.
It's what's on the inside that counts. She sings about how much the prince wants to return to his lavish life but material things won't make him truly happy. Searching for what you truly desire and who you really are will open up blue skies.
"Almost There" (Princess And The Frog)
Tiana from Princess and The Frog has determination and the will to move forward and is a prime example of inspiration. The song she sings, "Almost There," is a perfect representation of that and can relate to many. Her mother is talking to her about letting loose and going dancing.
For Tiana, her dreams in life are more important. The song talks about getting closer and closer to one's dream with hard work. There may be hardships and a fork in the road along the way, but pushing forward will get anyone through. In the song, Tiana sings that her Dad once told her, "Fairy tales can come true. You gotta make 'em happen. It all depends on you."
"How Far I'll Go" (Moana)
Moana captured the hearts of audiences of all ages around the world. The film not only had a wonderful story with real-life origins but its songs spoke wonders about strength and believing one can do it all. Moana is at a standstill as she feels incompliant with a mundane life on the island. She feels like there's something more to live for.
The song "How Far I'll Go" speaks about her chasing her dream and inner desire despite not being perceived as ready to do so or by having imperfections. It teaches that it's okay to not be complacent in life and wanting to strive for a new destination in life. Moana knows deep inside that's there's something more to explore and she takes a leap of faith.
"Go The Distance" (Hercules)
Hercules lived his whole life not fitting in and being seen as an outcast despite his good intentions. In Hercules, he has a moment of inspiration. The song starts with him always wanting to fit into a place that would welcome him as their own. But to get there, he has to go the distance.
The song is inspirational for its message of pushing forward and having the strength to keep going. Hercules sings of there might be a wandering path but even if it takes years, he'll get there eventually. It'll be a hard journey, but Hercules is determined to one day find where he belongs. The song also details not letting his road to glory change him, he says "for a hero's strength is measured by his heart."
"I'll Make A Man Out Of You" (Mulan)
If looking for an inspirational battle song, Mulan's "I'll Make a Man Out of You" is the perfect solution. While the song talks about Li's distress of the army men not being ready for war, it also inspires them. The coursing beat ties well with the message of training to become a strong and better version of oneself.
Pushing aside the emphasis of a male audience, the songs can relate to anyone. Li sings about a man having to have the strength of a typhoon while still being swift as a river. Mulan's character breaks the male-driven stereotypes and becomes a worthwhile soldier despite being a woman. Being strong and worthy doesn't only apply to men.
"Let It Go" (Frozen)
Frozen has captured the hearts of thousands around the world. Not only did the film inspire many but its title song, "Let It Go" became an anthem of inspiration. Elsa has lived her whole life hiding who she is and being ridiculed for her demeanor. She sings about having to hold back who she truly is.
Elsa let's go of her inhibitions and what people think of her. The fears she once had no longer worry her because she's now in control. The once perfect image she had to use as a cover is now gone and Elsa can be her true self and live her life to the fullest. "No right, no wrong, no rules for me. I'm free."
"Speechless" (Aladdin)
In recent years, Disney has made more live-action films of their classics. One that blew away audiences was Aladdin in 2019. This was the first time that Princess Jasmine was given a solo song and broke free of her mold seen in the animated version. The song "Speechless" became one of the more powerful songs to be created by Disney.
The song talks about a young girl being constantly held down and made to live under someone else's perception of who she needed to be. Jasmine sings about no longer letting people dictate her voice and her life. She won't be silenced and made to feel inferior. The song became an inspiration for many to be more independent.