Top 20 Disney Songs That Will Always Make You Smile

“Mulan” (1998)

Some Disney songs make us happy because they’re cheery and full of fun. Others are whimsical and bring out our inner child. This musical montage has all those qualities, but it’s also just plain epic. When the imperial army’s training begins, the soldiers struggle in their exercises – albeit through very catchy lyrics. Just as things start to get too tough for Mulan, the music shifts, becoming inspiring and determined, which motivates the entire camp. The song tells a perfect story of a rising hero. Donny Osmond’s vocals, combined with vivid imagery, never fail to lighten us up.

“The Princess and the Frog” (2009)

Disney’s “I Want” songs are some of the studio’s most iconic tunes. Not many are as upbeat and jazzy as “Almost There,” however. In this number, Tiana envisions her dream of opening the perfect restaurant, just as her father wanted. The lyrics celebrate the rewards of working hard to fulfill our dreams. With Anika Noni Rose’s infectious energy, it’s impossible not to feel uplifted by the song’s end. Tiana might have been singing in a run-down sugar mill, but we’re reminded that a bit of optimism can help make any dream into reality.

“Moana” (2016)

We knew that Maui was going to be a larger-than-life character, but we weren’t prepared for his first meeting with Moana. The demi-god of the wind and sea takes this time to shamelessly brag about his heroics. The musical number could have annoyed us - and Moana - but it’s surprisingly charming. Maui is just too charismatic for us to even care that it’s all a ruse for him to steal her boat. With Lin-Manuel Miranda’s rapid-fire rhymes and exaggerated boasting, this moment makes for one of Disney’s most fun character introductions.

“Tarzan” (1999)

There are so many songs to choose from Phil Collins’ soundtrack, but “Trashin’ the Camp” stands out as the most energetic and unique. In this lively track, Terk and the gorillas scat sing while they wreck a campsite. What sets it apart is that the music is created entirely using everyday objects, and it’s so much better because of it. Their excitement as they stumble upon the joy of music is contagious, making us want to join in. Overall, the song is pure and playful chaos, even if the lyrics are nonsensical.

“Lilo & Stitch” (2002)

Although it’s not a musical, this movie is sure to put a smile on your face. The same goes for this song. To lift their spirits after a tough day, David takes Lilo and Nani on a surfing adventure. The light vocals and tropical vibe are relaxing, capturing the essence of a perfect beach day. You can practically feel the ocean breeze just by listening. It’s such a happy song that even Stitch has to get in on the family fun. With everything the characters have been through, this moment couldn’t have come at a better time.

“The Lion King” (1994)

No other Disney song quite captures that feeling of being a kid as well as this. In this number, the young Simba walks us through his plans for when he becomes the ruler of the Pride Lands. The lyrics are as colorful as the visuals, and the banter brings out that sense of child-like wonder in all of us. It’s impossible not to get swept up in the young cub’s enthusiasm. Although we know how things turn out for him, the song still makes us want to trek through the savannah by his side.

“Lady and the Tramp” (1955)

Everyone knows the iconic scene where the titular characters share a spaghetti dinner. It’s an adorable sight, made even more lovely by the classic song “Bella Notte.” It begins with Tony and Joe’s rendition, played beautifully with an accordion and mandolin. Then the song continues throughout Lady and Tramp’s date night in a heavenly chorus. The song pushes the atmosphere to be as blissful as it can be. We owe that to lyricist Peggy Lee and composer Sonny Burke. It may not be the most exciting song, but it more than makes up for that in its warmth and charm. Try listening to it and tell us that you don’t get a heartwarming feeling.

“Encanto” (2021)

There is a lot to unpack with the Madrigal family. Several of them have magical powers, their Casita is alive, and their Abuela Alma is the family matriarch. Thankfully, Mirabel can drop all this exposition in the most fun way possible. She tells us everything we need to know in an opening number that is often akin to a patter song. As the pressure gets to her the lyrics get even faster and more frenetic. Stephanie Beatriz had her work cut out for her, but she was able to give a performance that was both hilarious and outright phenomenal.

“The Little Mermaid” (1989)

Whenever Sebastian starts to sing, you know you’re in for a musical treat. His love ballad for Ariel and Eric sets just the right tone for a romantic boat ride. You might expect the upbeat love song to come from the couple themselves, but we’ll gladly take any excuse to hear Samuel E. Wright’s rich voice. There’s also the lively Caribbean rhythm from the various swamp animals who bring the whole scene to life. Whether it’s a grand showstopper or a smooth island tune, Sebastian will always leave you humming along.

“Aladdin” (1992)

The Genie is a master at making a grand entrance, even when making them for someone else. In this parade sequence, Robin Williams pulls all the stops to make Aladdin’s debut as entertaining as possible. With his rapid-fire impressions and quick wit, he makes every second a joy to listen to. The entire scene bursts with energy and never fails to get us pumped or make us laugh. By the end, you’ll be dancing to “Prince Ali” and likely have those two words stuck in your head long after.

“Hercules” (1997)

Although the film says that being a hero isn’t about wealth and glory, this song makes it all too appealing. In this high-octane montage, the Muses take us through a dazzling retelling of the titular hero’s adventures. The gospel-inspired vocals go unbelievably hard, and the fast tempo is electrifying. The visuals also brilliantly capture the glitz and glamor of fame. It’s hard not to join in and chant “Hercules” along with the chorus. Practically every song on the soundtrack is a banger, but when it comes to pure, unadulterated joy, “Zero to Hero” delivers in spades.

“Tangled” (2010)

Some Disney songs make us smile because they’re exciting or cheerful. Yet, few do so through sheer hilarity. The antics begin when the patrons of the Snuggly Duckling break into a jolly musical number. It’s a hilarious surprise, and the lyrics that follow are as absurd as they are touching. We learn that some of the ruffians have secret passions that include interior design, baking, and knitting. The utter glee in their voices is infectious. Who could forget the moment when they forced Flynn to sing? Pure comedy.

“A Goofy Movie” (1995)

Who knew that one of the best Disney songs would come from a movie about Disney's silliest character? Many fans might prefer “I 2 I,” the song Max and Goofy dance to with Powerline himself, but “Stand Out” is just awe-inspiring. Just as the lyrics say, Max puts himself out there in a show-stopping performance for his entire school to see. The energizing music unsurprisingly gives him the confidence he needs to let loose, and you guessed it, stand out above the crowd. We can easily see why he chose this song to impress Roxanne.

“Brother Bear” (2003)

We can't say we're surprised that Phil Collins appears more than once on this list. His knack for creating feel-good soundtracks is unparalleled. The one in “Brother Bear” is no different. “Great Spirits” and “Welcome” are particularly great, but we have to give it to “On My Way.” During a montage of Kenai and Koda’s journey, their bond grows as the tempo picks up and the vocals get more adventurous. It's not only a wonderful song about companionship and freedom, but it's also flat-out catchy. Just as the lyrics say, we just “can't keep this smile off [our faces]”.

“Oliver & Company” (1988)

While they're not as fondly remembered as other classics, none of the songs from “Oliver & Company” should be forgotten. As the easy-going Dodger strolls through the streets of New York, he shows the orphaned Oliver how he lives in the big city. The combined influence of jazz and pop music guarantees you'll bop your head to the rhythm. Add to that Billy Joel's groovy tone and clever wordplay, you'll be listening to the track over and over again. It's just that enjoyable. Even the movie knows how good it is, as there's a reprise before the credits roll.

“The Jungle Book” (1967)

Although Baloo had us living “The Bare Necessities,” King Louie had us dancing without a care in the world. To tempt Mowgli into giving him the power of fire, the swing-dancing orangutan sings a Dixieland melody. The music is so lively that Baloo can’t stop himself from joining the party. This leads to some improvised scat dialogue between him and the king of swingers himself. It's a shame those two couldn't see eye to eye. They would've made one heck of a musical duo. They at least gave us an unforgettably festive show.

“Aladdin” (1992)

No matter how many times we hear it, we never get tired of the Genie and his show tunes. From the earworm of a melody to Robin Williams’ manic energy, this number is as sensational as they come. The rhyme schemes and bouncy music are sure to get you up and moving with everyone around you. Or at the very least, you'll be singing as gleefully as Genie. Because it's Robin Williams, there are of course a few laughs thrown in as well. To say this number is crazy fun would be an understatement.

“The Lion King” (1994)

Let’s be honest, you’ve been singing along to this tune ever since the film came out. Whether it brings out your inner nostalgia or reminds you to take it easy now and then, “Hakuna Matata” is bound to delight you every time it plays. Sure, it might not solve all your problems as Pumbaa claims, but it’s certainly the perfect palate cleanser at this point in the film. We’d rather forget the traumatic death of Mufasa as quickly as possible. Still, the song stands on its own with blissful jingles that you can’t help but vocalize. Rest assured you’ll be humming every word in your head long after the credits roll.

“Beauty and the Beast” (1991)

Timeless and uplifting, this Broadway-inspired number brightens our day every time we hear it. Despite the horror of Belle’s imprisonment, she’s cheered up at a dinner that goes far beyond our expectations. Lumiere leads the castle servants in an enchanting and fully choreographed musical feast. The melody is so grand and magical that it pulls you in with every note. The scale of the production alone is enough to lift our spirits. It’s safe to say that Lumiere did his job. For over thirty years, we’ve been belting out the finale of “Be Our Guest,” and we’ll continue to for the next thirty. It’s just too bad that the song makes every dinner we’ve ever had look dull in comparison.

“The Little Mermaid” (1989)

Disney wouldn’t be where it is today without the musical expertise of Howard Ashman and Alan Menken. They gave Ariel a soul with “Part of Your World” and made the ultimate showstopper with “Under the Sea.” The iconic first few notes alone are enough to make anyone beam with joy. The bubbly tune also makes us feel like we’re down in the ocean ourselves, jamming out with an orchestra of sea creatures. If living under the sea is just like this, then we can’t really see why Ariel would ever want to leave. \