Embark on a musical journey as we explore the enchanting soundtrack of Disney’s Moana in the order of their appearance.
Dive into the lyrical storytelling, emotion, and cultural richness embodied in each song, crafted by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina.
We’ll navigate through each captivating melody from Moana’s stirring “How Far I’ll Go” to Maui’s charismatic “You’re Welcome,” illuminating their significance within the movie’s narrative.
In addition, we’ll answer some common FAQs about these songs, enriching your understanding of this timeless Disney classic.
Table of Contents
All Moana Songs In Order
1. “Tulou Tagaloa”
The film opens with “Tulou Tagaloa,” a chant performed by Olivia Foa’i. In Polynesian culture, chants play a crucial role in communicating respect and reverence for nature and the divine.
This song acts as a sacred invocation to the gods, setting the spiritual tone of the movie and connecting audiences with the integral components of the Polynesian belief system.
2. “An Innocent Warrior”
“An Innocent Warrior,” sung by Vai Mahina and Sulata Foai-Amiatu, accompanies a beautiful sequence where baby Moana has her first magical interaction with the ocean.
The song’s lyrics, in the Tokelauan language, speak of a sacred bond between an innocent young warrior (Moana) and her guiding spirit (the sea). It is a musical representation of Moana’s innate connection with the ocean, a connection that dictates her destiny.
3. “Where You Are”
This lively song, performed by Christopher Jackson, Rachel House, Nicole Scherzinger, Auli’i Cravalho, and Louise Bush, paints a vivid picture of Moana’s island life in Motunui. As the daughter of the chief, Moana is being groomed for leadership and taught to find happiness “where you are.”
However, beneath the cheery rhythm, the song hints at Moana’s internal struggle between fulfilling her duties and her passion for the sea.
4. “How Far I’ll Go”
Arguably the film’s most iconic song, “How Far I’ll Go” is the lyrical expression of Moana’s yearning for adventure and discovery. Sung powerfully by Auli’i Cravalho, it encapsulates Moana’s struggle with her dual identities – one as the obedient future chief, the other as a fearless explorer.
The song is a poignant confession of her relentless desire to see what lies beyond the horizon, resonating with anyone who’s dared to dream beyond their boundaries.
5. “We Know The Way”
“We Know The Way” is a triumphant anthem of the exploratory spirit of Moana’s ancestors, the Wayfinders. Lin-Manuel Miranda and Opetaia Foa’i’s voices blend harmoniously, singing praises of the Wayfinders’ navigational skills and their bond with nature.
This song provides Moana, and the audience, with a deeper understanding of her culture’s rich heritage, steering her closer to her path.
6. “You’re Welcome”
Maui, the demigod, makes a grand musical entry with “You’re Welcome.” Sung by Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, it’s a catchy number that effortlessly captures Maui’s flamboyant personality, his self-importance, and his apparent charm. The song also introduces audiences to Maui’s ‘heroic feats,’ which have shaped the world of Moana.
7. “Shiny”
“Shiny” offers a sharp contrast with the film’s other songs. Sung by Jemaine Clement, who voices the self-obsessed coconut crab Tamatoa, it’s a disco-influenced number that exposes Tamatoa’s materialistic worldview. It serves as an important reminder to Moana and viewers that the pursuit of all things shiny and superficial can distract from one’s true path.
8. “I Am Moana (Song of the Ancestors)”
This song is a pivotal point in the film where Moana reaffirms her identity and purpose. Sung by Rachel House and Auli’i Cravalho, “I Am Moana” marks Moana’s emotional growth as she realizes that she carries the strength of her people and the guidance of her ancestors within her.
9. “Know Who You Are”
“Know Who You Are” is a hauntingly beautiful song where Moana recognizes Te Kā’s true identity as Te Fiti. Sung by Auli’i Cravalho, Vai Mahina, Olivia Foa’i, Opetaia Foa’i, and Matthew Ineleo, this song features lyrics that speak of understanding, empathy, and restoration, emphasizing the theme of identity and self-discovery.
10. “We Know The Way” (The Final Movie Song)
“We Know The Way” (Finale) brings the musical journey full circle. It symbolizes Moana’s successful revival of her people’s voyaging traditions and her readiness to lead as the new chieftain. The song reaffirms the importance of remembering one’s roots while daring to chart new paths.
11. “Logo Te Pate”
Following the end of Moana, “Logo Te Pate” by Olivia Foa’i, Opetaia Foa’i, and Talaga Steve Sale comes on.
This upbeat, festive song captures the joyful spirit of the people of Motunui as they rediscover their voyaging roots and set sail once more. Its pulsating rhythm and infectious energy bring the narrative arc full circle, reflecting the revitalization of Moana’s people and their collective embrace of the future.
12. “You’re Welcome” (Jordan Fisher/Lin-Manuel Miranda Version)
This version of “You’re Welcome” features the talents of Jordan Fisher and Lin-Manuel Miranda. It’s a playful, contemporary take on Maui’s self-aggrandizing anthem, making for an excellent end-credit song. Its modern pop influence adds a fresh twist to the original, showcasing the versatility of the movie’s music.
13. “How Far I’ll Go” (Alessia Cara Version)
As the credits continue to roll, Alessia Cara’s rendition of “How Far I’ll Go” fills the air. Cara’s unique vocal texture lends a new depth to the song, imbuing it with a universal appeal. Her version transforms Moana’s personal yearning into a broader anthem for anyone who dares to dream and aspire beyond their present circumstances.
14. “Unstoppable”
“Unstoppable” is an empowering track performed by Sia. Though not directly featured in the movie, this bonus track from the soundtrack adds a modern pop vibe to the overall musical composition of Moana.
Sia’s powerful vocals, combined with the song’s motivational lyrics, make this an inspiring addition to the film’s music.
Moana Songs FAQs
Who Wrote the Songs for Moana?
The songs for Moana were written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina. Miranda is a Grammy-winning composer and lyricist, and he is best known for creating the Broadway musical Hamilton.
Foa’i is a musician from Tuvalu, and he is known for his work in traditional Polynesian music. Mancina is a composer and songwriter who has worked on many Disney films, including The Lion King and Tarzan.
How Many Songs Are There in Moana?
The official soundtrack for Moana includes 40 tracks, with a mix of songs, score pieces, and outtakes. However, the core musical narrative of the film is driven by 14 songs.
Did Auli’I Cravalho, the Voice Actor of Moana, Really Sing the Songs?
Yes, Auli’i Cravalho, who voiced the character of Moana, also sang the songs for her character. This includes the film’s signature song, “How Far I’ll Go.” Cravalho, who was just 14 years old when she was cast for the role, captured the spirit of Moana through both her voice acting and her singing.
What Languages Are Sung in Moana?
The songs in Moana incorporate English and various Polynesian languages, including Tokelauan, Samoan, and Tuvaluan. For example, the opening song “Tulou Tagaloa” is sung in Samoan, while “Logo Te Pate” features Tokelauan.
The inclusion of these languages was a deliberate attempt to authentically represent Polynesian culture.
Was “How Far I’ll Go” Nominated for Any Awards?
Yes, “How Far I’ll Go” was nominated for several awards. It was nominated for Best Original Song at the 89th Academy Awards, and it won the award for Best Original Song at the 74th Golden Globe Awards. The song has been praised for its emotional depth and lyrical sophistication.
Did Dwayne Johnson Really Sing in Moana?
Yes, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, who voices the demigod Maui in “Moana,” performed his character’s song, “You’re Welcome.” Johnson isn’t traditionally known for his singing, but he took on the challenge for the role and delivered a fun, energetic performance that perfectly fits Maui’s larger-than-life persona.
What is the significance of “We Know The Way”?
“We Know The Way” is an important song in Moana as it introduces the audience to the Wayfinders, the ancestors of Moana’s people who were great explorers. This song, written by Miranda and Foa’i, is a celebration of their navigational skills and their deep connection with the natural world.
It’s also crucial in Moana’s journey as it rekindles her longing to set sail and encourages her to embrace her heritage.
What is the Most Popular Song in Moana?
The song “How Far I’ll Go” is the most popular Moana song. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song and won a Grammy Award for Best Original Song Written for Visual Media.