Songs From Disney's Beauty And The Beast
Disney's Beauty and the Beast is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for generations. The enchanting tale of a young woman who falls in love with a cursed prince has been adapted into various forms of media, including a hit Broadway musical and a live-action film. One of the most beloved aspects of the story is its iconic soundtrack, which features a collection of memorable and magical songs that continue to resonate with fans of all ages.
Tale as Old as Time
Perhaps the most recognizable song from Beauty and the Beast is "Tale as Old as Time". Composed by Alan Menken and written by Howard Ashman, the song serves as the film's main theme and is sung by the beloved character Mrs. Potts, voiced by Angela Lansbury. The song's romantic and wistful melody perfectly captures the essence of the film's central love story, while its poetic lyrics evoke a sense of timelessness and nostalgia. "Tale as Old as Time" received critical acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song, as well as a Grammy Award for Best Song Written Specifically for a Motion Picture or for Television.
Be Our Guest
Another standout song from Beauty and the Beast is "Be Our Guest", a lively and energetic musical number performed by the enchanted household objects in the Beast's castle. The song, written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, is a celebration of hospitality and extravagance, with its lyrics urging Belle to indulge in the luxurious offerings of the castle. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy chorus have made it a fan favorite, and it was even parodied in the hit animated series The Simpsons. "Be Our Guest" was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song, and its memorable performance in the film has become a beloved moment in Disney history.
Belle
"Belle" is the opening song of Beauty and the Beast, and it sets the stage for the entire story. Written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, the song introduces the audience to Belle, the film's heroine, and establishes her as a free-spirited and independent young woman who longs for adventure and intellectual stimulation. The song's catchy melody and clever lyrics make it a delightful and memorable introduction to the film's world, and its message of individuality and bravery has resonated with audiences for decades.
Gaston
"Gaston" is a character song that showcases the boastful and narcissistic personality of the film's main antagonist, Gaston. Written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, the song's lyrics playfully mock Gaston's inflated ego and exaggerated masculinity, while its upbeat and lively melody adds to the song's comedic tone. The song's memorable chorus, which encourages Gaston's admirers to chant his name, has become a popular sing-along moment in the film and in stage productions of the musical. "Gaston" is a standout moment that showcases the film's clever humor and memorable characters.
The Enchanted Rose
"The Enchanted Rose" is a hauntingly beautiful song that serves as a musical motif throughout Beauty and the Beast. Composed by Alan Menken, the song's melancholic melody and ethereal vocals add to the film's sense of mystery and magic. The song is used to represent the Beast's curse and the time limit he has to break it before the enchanted rose loses its last petal. "The Enchanted Rose" is a poignant and memorable musical moment that adds depth and emotion to the film's fantastical world.
Overall, the songs from Disney's Beauty and the Beast are a musical masterpiece that have stood the test of time. From the iconic "Tale as Old as Time" to the lively "Be Our Guest", each song adds to the film's enchanting world and memorable characters. The film's soundtrack has also been adapted into various stage productions, including a hit Broadway musical that has won multiple Tony Awards. The songs' cultural impact can be seen in their continued popularity and influence on popular culture, as well as in the numerous covers and renditions performed by artists such as Celine Dion and Josh Groban. Beauty and the Beast's music is a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of music.