October 16, 2023 marks the 100th anniversary of the Walt Disney Company: a century since Walt and his brother Roy introduced the world to Disney magic, bringing dreams and enchantment into the lives of millions and leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.
It all began with a visionary named Walter Elias Disney, born on December 5, 1901 in Chicago, Illinois. In 1923, with the help of his brother Roy, he founded the Disney Brothers studio, embarking on an adventure that would forever transform animation and the world of entertainment.
The Mickey Mouse icon
The big turning point came in 1928 with the introduction of Mickey Mouse, inaugurating the incredible Disney universe. The brainchild of Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, Mickey Mouse, made his cinema debut on November 18, 1923 in the short film Steamboat Willie, to resounding success. Legend has it that the paternity of Mickey Mouse belongs entirely to Ub Iwerks, and that Walt made it his own, saying that the character of Mickey Mouse was inspired by a pet mouse he kept in Kansas City. Mickey’s success paved the way for a wide range of beloved characters who would continue to fascinate and enchant audiences of all ages.
The animation revolution
But Disney has always pushed the boundaries of animation. In 1937, he produced the first full-color animated feature, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”, which has been an extraordinary success with critics and audiences alike. The film played in London cinemas for 28 consecutive weeks. This was just the beginning of a long list of successful animated masterpieces such as “Pinocchio”, “Fantasia”, “Dumbo” and “Bambi”, and many others to this day, including “Cinderella”, “Beauty and the Beast”, “The Lion King”…
Walt Disney’s death in 1966 hit the company hard, as it felt it had lost its guiding spirit, robbing it of its creative energy.
In the years that followed, after successfully acquiring and annexing other powerful institutions such as Marvel, former rival Pixar and Lucasfilm, Walt Disney was well on the way to becoming an unrivalled entertainment giant.
However, innovation remains at the heart of everything: in 2019, the company creates the Disney+ home streaming service, managing to virtually reach all audiences with its products.
A century of magic through soundtracks
This 100th anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate Walt Disney’s immortality and eternal legacy. His power to make us dream, to transport us to magical worlds and to make us believe that dreams can come true. An essential part of this timeless magic is the unforgettable soundtracks that accompany the animated masterpieces and so much more. To mark this anniversary, we’re listening to the 10 most beautiful soundtracks according to Ocarina, songs that have made Disney films immortal.
1) “When You Wish Upon a Star” – Pinocchio (1940)
This gentle melody has become the opening anthem of Disney films. Sung by Jiminy Cricket, this song embodies hope and dreams, making it a symbol of Disney magic.
It was written for the film Pinocchio, with lyrics by Ned Washington and music by Leigh Harline. Originally sung by Cliff Edwards accompanied by a choir, it has been covered 125 times and adapted into many other languages. Many artists have recorded and performed it, and the following is only a partial list: Bill Evans, Louis Armstrong, Glenn Miller, Gene Simmons, Diana Ross & The Supremes,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pguMUFyJ3_U
2. A Spoonful of Sugar- Mary Poppins (1964)
This song is taken from Mary Poppins, the 1964 musical. Written by Robert B. Sherman and Richard M. Sherman, it’s sung by actress Julie Andrews, who asks the two children to tidy their room. But even if the task is arduous, with the right attitude, it can still be fun.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_L4qauTiCY4
3. The Bare Necessities – The Jungle Book (1967)
A jazz song, written by Terry Gilkyson, for the animated film The Jungle Book, sung by Phil Harris as Baloo and Bruce Reitherman as Mowgli.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6BH-Rxd-NBo
4) “Under the Sea” – The Little Mermaid (1989)
A catchy song that transports us to an underwater world. Winner of an Academy Award, it represents the joy and beauty of the ocean.
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5) “Beauty and the Beast” – Beauty and the Beast (1991)
“Beauty and the Beast” is a song written by lyricist Howard Ashman and composer Alan Menken for the animated film Beauty and the Beast (1991). This Broadway-inspired ballad was first recorded by British-American actress Angela Lansbury in her role as the voice of the character Mrs. Potts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYrTaeCimYs
This romantic ballad has captured the hearts of many generations. Its magic lies in its exploration of inner beauty and love beyond appearances.
6. “A Whole New World” – Aladdin (1992)
A track that takes us on a magic carpet ride, “A Whole New World” sings about adventure, love and the wonders to come. One of Disney’s most iconic musical collaborations.
A Whole New World is a song composed by Alan Menken and written by Tim Rice for the soundtrack of Disney’s animated film Aladdin (1992). In the original version, it is sung by Brad Kane and Lea Salonga,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYjFxFFdyyk
8. He’s a Pirate” – Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the First Moon (2003)
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This soundtrack brought the legendary Pirates of the Caribbean saga to life. Composed by Klaus Badelt, it embodies the adventure and the epic of this successful saga.
9) “Let It Go” – Frozen (2013)
This song, written by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, quickly captured the hearts of millions, becoming an anthem of empowerment and personal freedom. It has become a modern icon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyNssxeX1W4
10. “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” – Encanto (2021)
This is a song written for the soundtrack of the animated film Encanto, composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda and performed by American singer Adassa.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvWRMAU6V-c
11. “Reflection” – Mulan (1968)
“Reflection” is a song written and produced by Matthew Wilder and David Zippel for the soundtrack of the Disney animated film Mulan (1998). In the film, the song is performed by Tony Award-winning Filipina singer and actress Lea Salonga as Fa Mulan.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGGXsm0a5s0
