The Best Songs from Moana and Moana 2
The Moana franchise boasts an impressive collection of songs, with both films featuring authentic South Pacific culture mixed with modern musical standards. The strongest songs rank among the best in the Disney canon, written by composers like Lin-Manuel Miranda, Abigail Barlow, Emily Bear, Mark Mancina, and Opetaia Foa’i. The result is a medley of catchy and inspiring songs that fit the themes and archetypes of the best musicals.
Moana’s soundtrack is one of Disney’s best modern soundtracks, with songs like “How Far I’ll Go” and “You’re Welcome” becoming massive hits. While Moana 2 can’t quite match the heights of the first film, there are some solid contributions to the Disney musical canon hidden throughout the sequel. Here are the top 10 songs from Moana and Moana 2, ranked:
10. “Can I Get A Chee Hoo?” – Sung by Dwayne Johnson
A fun and light-hearted track that showcases the melding of musical styles, “Can I Get A Chee Hoo?” is a jock jam that’s enjoyable, especially with Dwayne Johnson’s performance.
9. “Beyond” – Sung by Auliʻi Cravalho
A spiritual follow-up to “How Far I’ll Go,” “Beyond” reflects Moana’s growth and self-awareness, with a somber tone that’s a departure from the typical “I Want” songs.
8. “Know Who You Are” – Sung by Auliʻi Cravalho
A short but powerful song that works due to Cravalho’s performance and the film’s visuals, “Know Who You Are” is a quietly emotional moment.
7. “Shiny” – Sung by Jemaine Clement
The closest thing to a villain song in Moana, “Shiny” is a memorable track with a unique musical tone and a great performance from Clement.
6. “Where You Are” – Sung by Christopher Jackson, Rachel House, Nicole Scherzinger, Auliʻi Cravalho, and Louise Bush
An excellent “Setting Introduction Song” that sets the stage for the story and characters, “Where You Are” is a catchy and sweet introduction to Moana’s world.
5. “Get Lost” – Sung by Awhimai Fraser
The best song in Moana 2, “Get Lost” is a fantastic and unexpected track from Matangi, with a natural jazzy energy that sets it apart from most songs in the film.
4. “You’re Welcome” – Sung by Dwayne Johnson
An ideal comedic showcase for Maui, “You’re Welcome” is a fun and charming song that showcases Johnson’s performance.
3. “We Know The Way” – Sung by Opetaia Foa’i and Lin-Manuel Miranda
An impressive song that expands Moana’s world beyond her home island, “We Know The Way” is a shockingly effective song that connects both films.
2. “How Far I’ll Go” – Sung by Auliʻi Cravalho
The most acclaimed song in Moana, “How Far I’ll Go” is an effective “I Want” song that showcases Moana’s self-doubt and confidence.
1. “I Am Moana (Song of the Ancestors)” – Sung late in Moana
The ideal musical moment, “I Am Moana (Song of the Ancestors)” is the emotional anchor of the film, building up to one of the most visually stunning shots as Moana dives into the ocean to reclaim her destiny.