The Role of Music in Disney Movies

 

Today, Disney films are as synonymous with high-quality storytelling as they were when first introduced. The characters, the melodies, and the stories all come together to create wonderful cinematic experiences for the audience. 

While we all enjoy watching Disney movies for the fun and excitement they provide, did you know that Disney movies are also known for their memorable musical moments? The songs in Disney movies often become just as popular as the films themselves.

From nostalgia to immersion, the songs help set the tone and atmosphere of a scene. They also help advance the plot or develop the characters. In some cases, the music is even used to foreshadow future events.

Here's everything you want to know about the role of music in Disney movies.

1. Music Helps Set the Tone of a Scene

The music in Disney movies work together to create an impressive and opulent scene.

The lyrics and visuals in Disney movies work together to create an impressive and opulent scene that immediately draws in the viewer. For example, the song "Be Our Guest" from Beauty and the Beast gives a sneak peek into the film's lavish setting.

In contrast, the song "Poor Unfortunate Souls" from The Little Mermaid creates a more sinister feeling. The music and lyrics help to establish Ursula as a villainous character. The song also helps develop a sense of suspense and foreshadows future events.

2. Music Helps Develop Disney Characters

In many cases, the songs in Disney movies are sung by the characters and help reveal their inner thoughts and feelings. For example, the song "I Won't Say (I'm in Love)" from Hercules is sung by Megara as she tries to deny her growing feelings for Hercules. The song's lyrics show that Megara is conflicted about her emotions and tries to resist her feelings.

3. Advances the Plot in Disney Movies

The songs in Disney movies play a crucial role in advancing the plot. Sometimes, the song will help introduce a new character or location. For example, the song "A Whole New World" from Aladdin is used to introduce Jasmine to the viewer.

The song's lyrics describe the magical and wonderful world that Jasmine is about to discover. The song also throws light on the growing relationship between Aladdin and Jasmine.

4. Foreshadow Future Events

In some cases, Disney uses music in its movies to foreshadow future events. For example, the song "When Will My Life Begin?" from Tangled is sung by Rapunzel as she imagines what her life will be like outside of her tower. The song also foreshadows her eventual escape from the tower and her next adventures.

5. Music in Disney Movies Connects the Viewer to the Character

Disney music helps the viewer relate to the character's situation and feelings. They make us laugh, cry, or feel inspired, connecting us with the characters on a deeper level. 

Disney music is exceptionally nostalgic and reminiscent.

Mulan's "I'll Make a Man Out of You" is an excellent example of how music connects the viewers with the characters. Remember, most of us have always looked up to Mulan as a strong and inspiring character. 

And the song "You'll Be in My Heart" from Tarzan is so touching that it helps the viewers identify with the feelings and emotions of the characters. The lyrics describe the bond between a parent and child and how strong that can be.

6. Disney Songs Also Bring Back Priceless Memories

Disney songs are exceptionally nostalgic and reminiscent. Many people have fond memories of watching Disney movies with their family and friends. The songs from these movies help remind us of those happy memories.

Whether watching a Disney movie for the first time or the hundredth time, music will always play an important role in the overall experience. The nostalgia and emotion the songs evoke are a big part of what makes Disney movies special.

7. Disney Music Keeps Kids Engaged

Many Disney movies are geared towards kids. But kids are easily distracted, and their attention spans are notoriously short. The music in Disney films keeps kids engaged and interested in the story.

Plus, putting things to a tune solidifies the knowledge in our brains. The songs are often catchy and easy to sing along. They also help to break up the action and provide a welcome respite from the fast-paced action scenes.

Don't believe us? Enjoy the song "Be Our Guest" from Beauty and the Beast. It's fun and upbeat and helps to keep the viewer's attention focused on the story.

Final Thoughts

The next time you watch a Disney movie, pay attention to the songs and see how they contribute to the story. You may be surprised by the crucial role of songs in Disney movies. You'll get so involved with the story that you feel like you're standing alongside the characters, watching, smelling, and hearing everything. Music in Disney movies can transport you to another world and make you believe in magic.

Kamran Ahmed