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2023’s live-action version of “The Little Mermaid” faced the challenging task of making “Part of Your World” feel real, and remarkably, it surpassed the legendary original song from 1989. Sung by Jodi Benson back then, this tune has remained one of the best songs in any Disney film for decades. Recreating it for a remake was no small feat.

In an unexpected twist, this fresh interpretation of “The Little Mermaid” not only matches the tunes but surpasses them remarkably. Halle Bailey’s performance was widely acclaimed throughout the film, yet it’s her stunning vocal prowess that truly steals the show. She gleams whenever she sings, even boasting multiple renditions of “Part of Your World” on the “The Little Mermaid” soundtrack.

Halle Bailey Somehow Made “Part Of Your World” Even Better

Casting An Actual Singer Was Crucial To Its Success

In this live-action version of The Little Mermaid, nailing the classic tune “Part of Your World” was crucial. The song is so iconic that its absence would leave the movie feeling inadequate, much like how 2020’s Mulan missed out on “Make A Man Out Of You,” its most beloved melody from the animated version. One essential aspect of getting the song right was casting a talented singer as Ariel. Halle Bailey, who previously showcased her vocal skills as part of Chloe x Halle, a music duo with her sister, did an admirable job in this role.

In the recent Disney live-action adaptations, while the acting hasn’t been subpar, there’s been a tendency to cast actors without singing experience, like Emma Watson as Belle and Mena Massoud as Aladdin. But by bringing in Bailey, they secured an actor capable of matching Jodi Benson’s previous performances.

In this revamped rendition of “Part of Your World,” Bailey’s vocals show that she was undoubtedly the best choice for the role. When she sings “ready to stand,” the way she prolongs the note on “stand” can send shivers down your spine. Similarly, the increasing intensity in “above” during “explore that world up above” is nothing short of chilling. Essentially, she has managed to pay tribute to the original while still infusing her unique touch into it.

Live-Action Disney Remakes Have Missed The Mark On Iconic Songs

No Prior Remake Has Had Songs That Lived Up To The Original

Critics have leveled numerous comments towards Disney’s live-action movies, with the recurring theme being their failure to match the brilliance of the originals. This is particularly evident in the musical numbers, as tunes like “Belle,” “A Whole New World,” and “I Just Can’t Wait to be King” have been generally underwhelming. One exception was “Gaston,” but that’s primarily because it’s a comical song rather than one requiring an impressive vocal range.

Previously mentioned individuals such as Massoud, Watson, and others have shone in these films, yet their vocal abilities didn’t quite measure up when it came to interpreting the timeless tunes they were tasked with. Interestingly, several modern adaptations of these movies excel more with newly created songs rather than reworking the classics, like “Speechless” from Aladdin. Despite this, even that number was sung by Naomi Scott, who has a musical background. If Disney is to continue with these remakes, it would be wise to recruit singers for these songs, allowing us to hear more renditions like “Part of Your World.

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2025-05-30 00:09