For most of us, being a kid was pretty simple. We ate apple slices, drank CapriSun, and played on the playground at recess. I grew up in a time where amazing movies were coming out left and right. Ah, the '90s and early 2000s. Between the soundtracks and the featured songs, I was a pretty happy camper. Here are some of my favorite songs from some of my favorite movies.
1. "I Just Can't Wait to be King" from "The Lion King"
Even with Zazu trying to rain on Simba's parade, Simba maintains his confidence and has fun while doing it.
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2. "Learn To Do It" from "Anastasia"
Anastasia is my all-time favorite movie from when I was a kid. No, it wasn't Disney then. This is the first instance where Anya begins to reveal the possibility that she may be the lost princess. And who doesn't love an upbeat song with antics from Vlad and Dmitri? (If anyone wants to get me the flute part in the Broadway production, I'll be happy forever.)
3. "The Gospel Truth" from "Hercules"
Because who doesn't love the funky combination of Greek mythology and gospel music? The muses aren't appreciated enough in "Hercules." While this is my favorite song from the movie, it's jam-packed with amazing music.
4. "In the Dark of the Night" from "Anastasia"
Back to "Anastasia," I'm sorry. Rasputin may be the evilest and strangest villain in an animated film, but he certainly knows how to get down. He has the entire underworld singing and dancing with him.
5. "Gaston" from "Beauty and the Beast"
I dislike Gaston with every fiber of my being (more and more as I get older and realize that he's just one of those guys). BUT this song is CATCHY and so well-written.
6. "Hellfire" from "Hunchback of Notre Dame"
Now, I didn't see this movie until I was in college, honest. But "Hellfire" is one of the most beautiful and haunting songs I've heard in a film. Frollo is the worst kind of person, though, so.
7. "A Girl Worth Fighting For" from "Mulan"
You're surprised. You thought it'd either be "Reflection" or "I'll Make a Man Out of You." Nope. This is my favorite song. One, because we learn about the characters who will help save China AND two, THE SEAMLESS TRANSITION INTO WALKING INTO THE DECIMATED VILLAGE. I get goosebumps every time.
8. "Trashin' the Camp" from "Tarzan"
The entire soundtrack to this movie is amazing (because Phil Collins), but there's something about Phil Collins and NSYNC jamming? Nothing. And because the tea set from "Beauty and the Beast" is featured, to this day, I believe "Tarzan" quotes "I Just Can't Wait to be King" from "The Lion King." I'm telling you.
9. "Bare Necessities" from "The Jungle Book"
Having this song on this list was a necessity. Get it? "The Jungle Book" is so underappreciated and I just love it so much. Watch it and remind every single character that you still care.
10. "Nemo Egg" from "Finding Nemo"
"Emily, there's no songs in "Finding Nemo."" Ah, yes, but it has a soundtrack. The soundtrack from "Finding Nemo" is one of the most beautiful things I've ever had the pleasure of listening to and "Nemo Egg" will break you heart. Thomas Newman is a music genius.
11. "Main Theme" from "Monsters, Inc."
Because soundtrack count, I'm counting this one. You can't help but tap your foot to this one. Randy Newman, you did well (yes, that Newman, they're cousins!).
12. "Poor Unfortunate Souls" from "The Little Mermaid"
What can I say? I'm a sucker for a villain's spotlight. Ursula KILLED it. If you only know this song because of The Jonas Brothers, you have to reevaluate some things.
