Top 10 Best Tangled Franchise Songs
Script written by Nick Spake
Top 10 Tangled Franchise Songs
When will this countdown begin? Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’ll be counting down our picks for the Top 10 Tangled Franchise Songs.
For this list, we’ll be looking at the most timeless tunes from the 2010 film “Tangled,” the television continuation, and even the abridged stage musical. We’re leaving off “Something That I Want” since it was only played over the movie’s end credits. As some of these songs tie into key plot points, a spoiler alert is in order.
#10: “Wind in My Hair”
“Tangled: Before Ever After” (2017)
Despite finally being free from her tower, Rapunzel still feels confined within the walls of Corona. She expresses her desire to break free in this uplifting song, venturing beyond the kingdom with Cassandra. “Wind in My Hair” perfectly sums up Rapunzel as a character. She’s a risk-taker who’s eager for adventure, even if she’s not sure what awaits over the horizon. While Rapunzel’s curiosity and carefree nature can occasionally get her tangled in trouble, she’ll tackle anything life throws at her with a can-do attitude. The lyrics and melody also carry a strong sense of mystery, inviting us to explore a world that’s only been touched upon. “Wind in My Hair” evolved into the show’s main theme song, getting us excited for each new adventure.
#9: “Let Me Make You Proud”
“Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure” (2017-20)
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When we first met the wide-eyed Varian, we didn’t expect his character arc to take such a dark turn. The same can be said about this solo. “Let Me Make You Proud” starts as an inspiring song as Varian perseveres through a relentless snowstorm in a race against the clock to save his father. Varian sees this as an opportunity to prove his worth and make up for his past screwups. Upon arriving in Corona, however, Rapunzel is forced to put her kingdom’s needs before Varian’s. With his father frozen in amber, Varian’s optimism becomes clouded by disappointment, heartbreak, and vengeance in a menacing reprise. Varian remains as determined as ever, though, vowing retribution against those who failed him.
#8: “Everything I Ever Thought I Knew”
“Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure” (2017-20)
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We’ve watched the devil-may-care Flynn Rider evolve into the caring Eugene Fitzherbert. Everything Eugene thought he knew about himself is thrown into question upon reuniting with his father, who happens to be the king of the Dark Kingdom. A prophecy suggesting that Eugene may betray Rapunzel only plunges him deeper into an identity crisis. In a melancholy number, Eugene reflects on the person he was, the person he’s become, and the person he’ll be going forward. Eugene often hides his insecurities behind jokes and smolders. His vulnerability is on full display in this song, however, revealing the character’s many layers and a powerful sense of loss. Eugene may not know who he is, but the lyrics speak volumes about the complex soul he’s developed into.
#7: “Mother Knows Best”
“Tangled” (2010)
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Villain songs are a highlight of any Disney movie, but “Mother Knows Best” stands out from the others. Instead of revealing her true nature through song, Mother Gothel masks her despicable deeds and condescending insults behind an affectionate demeanor. To convince Rapunzel to stay in the tower, Gothel playfully warns her about the various dangers that wait outside, all while taking several cheap shots at her so-called daughter’s self-esteem. While one of the funniest Disney villain songs, “Mother Knows Best” turns grim when Rapunzel later defies Gothel. Before, Gothel sang as if she were wagging her finger in disapproval. In the reprise, that finger becomes more like a fist as Gothel operatically scolds Rapunzel, assuring her that Flynn will leave her in the dust.
#6: “Nothing Left to Lose”
“Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure” (2017-20)
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Although Cassandra’s darker side had been hinted at several times, it nevertheless came as a genuine shock when she stabbed Rapunzel in the back. After crossing the line, Cass gets an even more epic villain song as her plans come into fruition. A recently redeemed Varian attempts to help Cass see the light, but she’s too far gone to listen. Part of what makes Cass such a compelling character is that she doesn’t view herself as a villain, feeling her actions are justified. That vindication is expressed through this haunting song, as Cass commits to her diabolical plot without looking back. “Nothing Left to Lose” has a “Wicked” vibe to it, which is fitting since Cassandra’s voice actress, Eden Espinosa, has also played Elphaba.
#5: “I’ve Got a Dream”
“Tangled” (2010)
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You can’t always judge a book by its cover. The Snuggly Duckling may not sound like an intimidating establishment, but its patrons are mainly ruffians. Those ruffians have a sensitive side, however, which they reveal through an unexpected musical number. While their barbaric tendencies still shine through, “I’ve Got a Dream” is ultimately an upbeat song about pursuing your passions and not letting appearances get in the way. With lyrics that are equally creative and absurd, the song has been compared to the likes of Monty Python. All that’s missing is one of the thugs saying that he wants to be a lumberjack. It even contains one of Disney’s most meta moments where Flynn refuses to sing, only to find that he has no choice.
#4: “Ready As I’ll Ever Be”
“Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure” (2017-20)
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The Season 1 finale of “Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure” builds to a climactic showdown between Corona and Varian’s forces. Before the two armies clash, they prepare with a rousing song that would get anybody pumped. There’s a gripping sense of urgency throughout this number, as if a bomb is ticking down with each musical note. It’s especially reminiscent of “Les Misérables,” making use of the entire cast as they band together for the final fight. “Ready as I’ll Ever Be” also serves as a rite of passage for two characters, as the Captain entrusts Cassandra to lead his troops and King Frederic trusts Rapunzel to handle herself in combat. By the time this heart-racing song is over, you’re ready to charge into battle alongside our heroes.
#3: “When Will My Life Begin?”
“Tangled” (2010)
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The “I Want” song has been a Disney stable since Snow White, but “When Will My Life Begin?” possesses a more contemporary sound. Makes sense seeing how Rapunzel is a modern Disney princess. She may be cooped up, but Rapunzel knows how to keep herself occupied. The song follows Rapunzel throughout her daily routine, establishing her positive outlook and ability to make the best out of any situation. As hopeful as Rapunzel is, there’s a world outside her tower and she gets her first taste of it in the reprise. Apprehensive at first, Rapunzel takes a leap of faith and the moment her feet meet the grass, she’s hooked. Rapunzel experiences so much for the first time and her excitement shines through with this stimulating show tune.
#2: “Waiting in the Wings”
“Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure” (2017-20)
Although she puts up a confident front, Cassandra can’t help but feel second best compared to Rapunzel, especially after learning who her biological mother is. Before she descends into darkness, we’re given a glimpse into Cass’s soul that foreshadows her future actions. Cass has spent her entire life fighting for admiration, continually coming up short. She expresses her feelings of disappointment and loneliness in this Daytime Emmy-winning song, which helped composer Alan Menken finally attain EGOT status. Just as Rapunzel spent eighteen years waiting for her life to begin, Cass has spent that time waiting in the wings. Where Rapunzel always looks on the positive side, though, Cass is left feeling empty inside and this tear-jerking tune gets to the root of her broken dreams.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“I’ve Got This,” “Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure” (2017-20)
This Song’s Got the Right Attitude
“Stronger Than Ever Before,” “Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure” (2017-20)
A Triumphant Way to Kick Off the Final Season
“Next Stop, Anywhere,” “Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure” (2017-20)
A Breezy Opening to Season 2
“If I Could Take This Moment Back,” “Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure” (2017-20)
A Romantic Duet Full of Regret and Remorse
“Flower of Gold,” “Tangled: The Musical”
A Welcome Addition to Rapunzel’s Backstory
#1: “I See the Light”
“Tangled” (2010)
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If there’s an image from “Tangled” that’ll forever stick with us, it’s Rapunzel and Eugene out on a boat, surrounded by a fleet of shimmering lanterns. This beautiful imagery provides the backdrop for a sincere romance ballad where the two realize their true feelings for each other. With a mix of folk and pop music, “I See the Light” captures the sensation of falling in love. It’s gentle yet all-encompassing, making the audience feel as if they’re floating on air with those lanterns. The song scored Alan Menken and lyricist Glenn Slater an Oscar nomination, as well as a Grammy. Hitting at a time when Disney musicals were just starting to find their voice again, “I See the Light” confirmed that the magic was back.
