Top 10 Original Songs in Live-Action Disney Remakes

“Lady and the Tramp” (2019)
Some things just need a total revamp, and that cat number from the original definitely falls into this category. In this version, the chaos and mischief remain, but the offensive overtones are gone. The writers said that they kept tweaking the number until it actually made them laugh, which is when they knew they were onto something. Funny enough, Nate “Rocket” Wonder and Roman GianArthur, who co-wrote this song with Janelle Monáe, weren’t even supposed to sing it in the movie—but somehow, that's exactly what ended up happening. It’s still just as brash and ridiculous as before, just without making future generations cringe. It was a much-needed update for sure.

“Beauty and the Beast” (2017)
If you’ve seen later releases of the original animation or the stage musical, you probably know the song “Human Again.” For the 2017 live-action remake, they swapped it out for “Days in the Sun,” which gives us a deeper look at why Prince Adam became so cruel and why his staff still stands by him, despite the curse. The song is a mix of nostalgia and longing, making their situation feel even more tragic. Composer Alan Menken gave it his signature touch, making it sound soft and wistful but packed with sadness and hope. It gives the Beast a more elaborate backstory, adding layers to his situation and making breaking the curse feel more urgent.

“Pinocchio” (2022)
After Pinocchio joins Stromboli’s theater, he meets puppeteer Fabiana and her puppet, Sabina. While practicing in her room, Fabiana sings about how dancing keeps her dreaming. The movie didn’t exactly get rave reviews, but this is one of its more charming additions. The song is light and uplifting, with a message about pushing through challenges, which fits Fabiana’s story as a dancer who refuses to let an injury hold her back. The melody is sweet and even a little playful, with a fun Latin-inspired rhythm. It doesn’t quite hit the emotional highs of the film’s classic songs, but it’s a catchy, welcome addition that brings some extra warmth to the movie.

“The Little Mermaid” (2023)
This song takes place after Ariel seals the deal with Ursula, trading her voice for legs. Since she can’t actually speak, it works as her internal monologue while she takes in the human world she’s dreamed about—full of excitement, nerves, and wonder. In the original 1989 film, Ariel only gets one solo, so this basically gives audiences a chance to check in with her. Also, when you cast Halle Bailey, how could you not give her more chances to sing? It’s got that classic Disney feel with a modern pop twist, pulling us right into Ariel’s mind. Watching her soak up every new experience makes it even better, and the build-up makes what happens next hit even harder.

“Snow White” (2025)
Since the story got some updates, “Someday My Prince Will Come” no longer fit the narrative. But Snow White still needed her big “I Want” song, so Benj Pasek, Justin Paul, and Jack Feldman gave us “Waiting on a Wish.” It perfectly captures that feeling of knowing who you want to be but not quite knowing how to get there. And, of course, Rachel Zegler delivers, pouring her heart into every note. It makes this version of Snow White feel more real and relatable than ever. The song is absolutely beautiful, and while this film has gone down in infamy, our wish is that this song doesn’t get lost in that unfortunate legacy.

“Beauty and the Beast” (2017)
Just like “Days in the Sun” gave us a peek into the Beast’s past, this song does the same for Maurice and Belle. We first hear it when Maurice reflects on the good old days with his late wife. Belle later reprises it as she returns to the Paris of her infancy. The song has a lullaby-like melody, bringing warmth, comfort, and a touch of sadness. There’s also the version sung by Céline Dion over the end credits, just like her rendition of the title song in the original. Despite initially hesitating to sign on after recently losing her husband, Dion ultimately performed it as a tribute to the career he helped her build.

“The Little Mermaid” (2023)
If there’s one thing we want from live-action remakes, it’s for them to fill in the gaps left by the original. This song does exactly that. In the 1989 animation, Eric is basically just... there. But in this updated version, he gets his own “I Want” song, which is like his version of “Part of Your World,” explaining why he’s so drawn to the ocean and why his connection with Ariel makes sense. Written by Alan Menken and Lin-Manuel Miranda, the song captures the call of the wild waters, with Ariel representing the life Eric longs for. Jonah Hauer-King brings it to life with all the yearning and desperation that makes us root for this prince.

“The Lion King” (2019)
For a while, “Spirit” was this film’s hidden gem. Hans Zimmer, whose iconic music scores both versions, admitted he was a bit anxious when Beyoncé first pitched the song—apparently, she was too. But as soon as he heard it, he knew it had to be in the film. It was originally going to be played over the end credits, but Zimmer pushed to make it part of the story. We hear it as Simba makes his return to Pride Rock, a moment that Nala deserves credit for if you ask us. The song is about empowerment and connection to roots, with African rhythms that pack emotional weight. Critics loved it, earning multiple award nominations, including two Grammys.

“Beauty and the Beast” (2017)
One of the Beast’s more, well, beastly traits is his struggle to express emotions. But that’s where musical numbers come in, right? They let characters share what words can’t. Apparently, the Beast didn’t get a solo in the 1991 animation because Howard Ashman couldn’t find the right moment for him to break into song. Well, we’d say that letting the woman he loves and who might’ve just broken his curse leave is a pretty good moment, and clearly, the creators of the 2017 remake thought so, too. This beautiful ballad reveals his softer side, which he rediscovers thanks to Belle. As she leaves, he reflects on how her memory will stay with him for “evermore.”


Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Certainly a Surprising Choice for Disney, but the Pipes on Audra McDonald Make It Worth Every Note

A “Strong” Ending Sung by Sonna Rele

We Guess Scuttle Really Wanted a Song!

Joining a Long Line of Disney Villains Who’ve Scored Our Childhood Trauma

“Aladdin” (2019)
Jasmine’s always been one of Disney’s most determined princesses, but in the 2019 live-action remake, she truly breaks free from the usual princess mold. She’s not just the love interest; she’s driven to become the leader Agrabah deserves. As the movie goes on, we watch her grow stronger and more confident. Her song “Speechless” is a key part of that journey. It’s all about finding her voice and standing up for what matters. The song unfolds in three parts, beginning with a stripped-back melody. Its crescendo mirrors Jasmine’s emotional growth, climaxing in a powerful showcase of Naomi Scott’s incredible vocal range. It’s a dynamic, unforgettable piece that resonates with anyone who’s ever had to fight to be heard.

Which original song from a live-action remake do you wish had been included in the animated version? Let us know in the comments