Discover the eight iconic rock artists you likely forgot contributed to the soundtracks of animated Disney movies. These legendary musicians have left an indelible mark on the music world, and their involvement in Disney films has often flown under the radar.

Whether you grew up cherishing Disney classics or you proudly consider yourself a Disney adult, the brilliance of the soundtracks for many of these films is undeniable. While rock songs may not be prevalent in Disney movies, several legendary figures from the rock music scene have made significant contributions to these soundtracks in various capacities, showcasing their versatility and talent.

Continue reading to explore the fascinating connections between rock artists and Disney, and learn about how these talented musicians were brought on board to create music for some of the most beloved animated films in cinematic history.

Elton John: The Musical Genius Behind The Lion King

Although all of the scoring for the 1994 classic The Lion King was masterfully crafted by Hans Zimmer, the legendary Sir Elton John composed all of the unforgettable songs that are sung throughout the film, in collaboration with lyricist Tim Rice. Their partnership produced iconic tracks that have transcended generations.

Interestingly, it was Rice who initially recommended John to Disney, despite the company’s initial doubts about the availability of the Rocketman. However, after a pivotal phone call from Rice, the rest became history, leading to a collaboration that would change both of their careers.

Reflecting on this pivotal moment, John stated, “I got to see the script, I got to see the little animation boards and then I got to see as it came together. I have Tim to thank for the whole experience of The Lion King. That one phone call he made to me… that changed my life and my career.” The iconic songs he penned, including “Circle of Life,” “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King,” “Be Prepared,” “Hakuna Matata,” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” are now synonymous with the film. Although his versions of the tracks play during the film’s credits, their impact remains profound.

Another rock artist featured in this list contributed vocals to one of the songs that plays during the movie, so keep reading to uncover more about this fascinating connection.

Elton John, ‘Can You Feel the Love Tonight’: A Timeless Classic

Fall Out Boy: Immortals in Big Hero 6

The band Fall Out Boy was invited to contribute an original song to the soundtrack of the 2014 animated feature Big Hero 6, resulting in the creation of “Immortals.” This collaboration marked a significant milestone as it was the first successful film soundtrack project for the band, even though they had been approached for movie soundtracks in the past.

In a blog post, bassist Pete Wentz shared insights about the experience, noting, “Disney asked us to come in and talk to the directors so we did that… and we discussed the scene and what our song would attempt to do.” Following these discussions, the band returned home, wrote the song, and engaged in a collaborative back-and-forth process with the Disney team.

Wentz expressed how unique it was to be part of something larger, stating, “It was interesting to be a part of because our song was just a small part of a bigger thing, and the challenge to just be a part of the fabric. It was a really cool experience,” highlighting the band’s excitement about contributing to a major animated film.

Fall Out Boy, ‘Immortals’: The Anthem of a Generation

Phil Collins: The Voice of Disney’s Tarzan

Renowned musician Phil Collins played an iconic role in the soundtrack of Tarzan (1999), so much so that his contributions have become cultural references and memes over the years. The songs he composed for the film are so powerful that they earned him an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, a Grammy, and numerous other accolades, establishing it as one of the best soundtracks not only in the Disney universe but in the entire realm of film.

While many may remember hits like “Strangers Like Me” and “You’ll Be in My Heart,” fewer know that Collins also crafted the soundtrack for the 2003 film Brother Bear. Not only did he write and compose songs for the film, but he also collaborated with Mark Mancina to create the score, much like their previous collaboration on Tarzan.

In a 2004 interview, Collins recounted, “They asked me if I would be interested in scoring a film, and I’d never done it before. I couldn’t have done it without Mark Mancina. I lifted my game, and you know I love to have some challenge thrown down at me to see if I could do it.” His commitment to excellence shines through in every note of his work.

Phil Collins, ‘On My Way’: A Journey Through Sound

Sting: The Versatile Songwriter for Disney

Disney’s approach to the soundtrack for the 2000 film The Emperor’s New Groove was notably diverse, as they enlisted artists from various musical genres, including the legendary Sting. Initially, Disney approached him to contribute songs for a movie titled Kingdom of the Sun, for which he produced around seven tracks. However, the project was ultimately scrapped.

Subsequently, Disney invited him to be part of the soundtrack for The Emperor’s New Groove, which he accepted, although he expressed some reservations upon discovering the film’s theme. As reported by The Daily Record, Sting acknowledged the significance of contributing to a Disney film.

He reflected, “I’ve grown up with Disney… and I thought, Okay, if you’re going to have a legacy into the future, what better way than to write for one of these films that people are going to watch in 30 years’ time? And I have six children. I thought my stock would rise if they saw their dad doing a Disney film.” Despite his initial hesitations, he found joy in the process and was encouraged by friends like Elton John and Phil Collins, who had successful collaborations with Disney.

Sting is credited with several songs in the film’s soundtrack, but the track he sang for the film is “My Funny Friend and Me,” which resonates with audiences for its heartfelt lyrics and melody.

Sting, ‘My Funny Friend and Me’: A Melodic Tribute

Billy Joel: The Voice Behind Oliver & Company

In the 1988 film Oliver & Company, Billy Joel played a pivotal role, voicing the character of a New York City mutt named Dodger. With his authentic New York accent, he brought the character to life, and he also performed the catchy song “Why Should I Worry?” which became a fan favorite.

In a memorable scene, a piano even makes a cameo, which Dodger amusingly plays with his tail while donning sunglasses, adding an entertaining touch to the film.

READ MORE: 3 Rockers You Forgot Voiced Characters in Animated Disney Movies

While Joel was approached to write a song specifically for the film, he declined due to being immersed in the process of creating his own album at that time. He explained, “I was in the middle of writing my own album, over the last year and a half… it was hard for me to just jump in, to write a song for the character… I said, ‘Yeah, I’ll sing this song. I’ll work as just a singer for once.’ I don’t remember the last time I did that. Actually, I don’t think I ever did it,” highlighting his unique contribution to the film.

Billy Joel, ‘Why Should I Worry?’: A New York Anthem

Demi Lovato: The Voice of Frozen’s Let It Go

Pop sensation turned rock artist Demi Lovato recorded a powerful version of “Let It Go” for the acclaimed 2013 animated film Frozen. However, the version featured in the film was performed by actress Idina Menzel, who voiced the character Elsa. The song was penned by the talented songwriting duo Robert and Kristen Anderson-Lopez, who have composed numerous memorable tracks for various films.

In an interview with Studio System News, the duo expressed their admiration for Lovato, stating they selected her for the track “because she is so damn talented.” They added, “The Disney family thing was very convenient, but honestly, she would’ve been at the top of the list if she hadn’t been in the Disney family.” Notably, “Let It Go” is a challenging song, and the Anderson-Lopez team acknowledged Lovato’s exceptional vocal ability, saying, “Not everyone can sing ‘Let It Go.’ It’s not easy. She has the kind of voice that can.”

Demi Lovato, ‘Let It Go’: A Powerful Performance

Joseph Williams: The Voice of Aladdin’s Character

<pJoseph Williams served as the lead singer of the iconic band Toto from 1986 to 1988 and returned as their frontman in 2010. In the mid-1990s, he was invited to record all of the main character’s songs for the beloved movie Aladdin. Although his recorded vocals were ultimately replaced with those of the original actor, this opportunity led to another significant project for Williams — The Lion King.

After recording demos for the film, Williams received an invitation to sing “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” in Hans Zimmer’s studio, which marked a significant moment in his career. He recalled, “They want you to do the singing for when Simba becomes an adult in The Lion King.” Additionally, he lent his voice to the song “Hakuna Matata,” further cementing his connection to this iconic Disney masterpiece.

The Lion King, ‘Hakuna Matata: A Joyful Tune

Miley Cyrus: Disney’s Duet with John Travolta

Starting her career as Hannah Montana on the Disney Channel, Miley Cyrus has a rich history with the Disney brand. She also performed a duet with actor John Travolta on the song “I Thought I Lost You,” which was featured in the 2008 animated film Bolt. Both Cyrus and Travolta voiced characters in the film, adding another layer of connection to Disney.

The film’s creators requested Cyrus to write a song that she could perform alongside her co-star, leading to the creation of “I Thought I Lost You,” which she penned with country singer/songwriter Jeffrey Steele.

Travolta praised Cyrus’s songwriting skills in an interview with MTV News, stating, “Well, it was something great. I mean, those lyrics, the melody, those choruses are A-plus stuff, you know? She’s really gifted at writing, and she really wanted to write something good for me as the character Bolt, so she went out of her way with her writing partner to come up with something good, and I really think they pulled it off. I know something about music, and I’m telling ya, I was blown away.”

Miley Cyrus + John Travolta, ‘I Thought I Lost You’: A Heartfelt Duet