Voices of Aladdin and Jasmine Sound Just as Beautiful 26 Years Later
Everyone has their favorite Disney animated film, and every film falls within its own particular era, as all “Dis-Nerds” know.
According to Odyssey, films like “Cinderella” and “Peter Pan” graced Disney’s “Silver Age,” while others such as “The Aristocats” and “The Great Mouse Detective” ushered in the “Dark Age.”
The “Dark Age” came after Walt Disney’s passing. The company was trying to stay afloat, and true Disney fans already know the name of the film that caused Disney’s biggest box office disaster.
But we’re not here to discuss the unsuccessful venture that was “The Black Cauldron.” Because what fun it is to talk about how our favorite animated films might never have been made?
What’s truly inspiring and gets me all warm and fuzzy inside is hearing about the company’s comeback. Ah yes, the “Disney Renaissance” is probably my favorite underdog story ever.
“The Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast” are at the top of my list when it comes to the best of this era in Disney history.
But let’s not forget about another renaissance era masterpiece that’s loved just as much today as it was 26 years ago.
“Aladdin” released in 1992. While the late Robin Williams is owed much credit for bringing this film to life through his role as “Genie,” there’s so much more to this magic carpet ride than the big blue guy himself.
The animation is stunning, and music only the great Alan Menken can deliver has stood the test of time.
Menken brought us “A Whole New World,” which is still as lovely today as it was the first time we heard it.
Not only that, but the voices behind the song as as strong as ever. Lea Salonga and Brad Kane were cast as singing roles for the film.
Sadly, both are listed on IMDB as uncredited. In fact, you have to search carefully for their names to find them.
Most people will be more familiar with the speaking voices for Aladdin and Jasmine, Scott Weinger and Linda Larkin.
According to IMDB, Kane was originally going to do both the singing and speaking for Aladdin. but the speaking role was offered to Weinger late in the game.
Whatever the reason for the change, I’m certainly glad we still get to enjoy Kane’s vocals. He and Salonga delivered quite the performance, and not much has changed in nearly 3 decades.
In 2015, the duet reunited on “Good Morning America,” People reported. Their morning television performance left onlookers in awe.
If this isn’t perfection, I don’t know what is. I vote for more Disney singing stars to reunite and grace us with their voices.
Until then, I’ll just watch this video over and over again. It certainly gives me an “indescribable feeling.” It’s clear to see why this song won a Grammy and an Oscar — simply beautiful!
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