American Idol 2023: Top 5 Season 21 Disney song suggestions
Disney Week returns to American Idol on Sunday, May 14, for the Top 5 live show. Traditionally presented as a Top 7 or Top 10 theme, this year’s edition comes later in the competition, offering a unique challenge for the remaining five finalists. With such a vast Disney catalog to choose from, I picked four song options for each contestant—mixing safe, career-friendly choices with a few unexpected but fitting alternatives. The aim is to suggest selections that highlight each singer’s strengths while giving them room to make the material their own.
American Idol Top 5 Disney Night airs on ABC Sunday May 14 coast to coast (8 pm ET/5 pm PT)
UPDATE: The official Top 5 Disney Night setlist has been released by the show. Below are thoughtful suggestions to consider alongside the actual song choices.
Colin Stough
Colin’s voice sits comfortably between country and soulful pop, so Disney material that can be adapted to a country-rock or storyteller arrangement will serve him well. He could reinvent a pop-leaning Disney tune with a twangy, raspy delivery or lean into a genuine country ballad to showcase his narrative strengths. A rock-country arrangement would give him room to show grit, while an intimate ballad could highlight his emotional connection to the lyrics.
- We Go Together (The Fox and The Hound 2)
- Our Town (Cars)
- Beauty and The Beast (Beauty and the Beast)
- A Whole New World (Aladdin)
Iam Tongi
Iam’s Hawaiian roots and relaxed vocal style pair naturally with songs that carry island, reggae, or acoustic flavors. He should avoid the obvious “How Far I’ll Go” unless he can find a fresh arrangement; instead, choosing tunes that complement his breezy delivery could produce a memorable moment. Songs that allow for gentle harmonies or a laid-back groove will emphasize his cultural identity and unique tone.
- We Know The Way (Moana)
- You’re Welcome (Moana)
- Under The Sea (The Little Mermaid)
- All Is Found (Frozen 2)
Megan Danielle
Megan’s strength lies in soulful, gospel-tinged ballads and country-inflected emotional performances. She shines when material allows her to tap into both vulnerability and powerful vocal control. Classic Disney ballads and songs that can be arranged with a contemporary Christian or country-gospel touch will likely be the most effective choices for her, enabling a connection with viewers who appreciate heartfelt storytelling.
- Colors of The Wind (Pocahontas)
- If I Never Knew You (Pocahontas)
- Someday (The Hunchback of Notre Dame)
- Hold Us Together (Safety)
Wé Ani
Wé Ani has the vocal power and theatrical sensibility to tackle Disney’s more dramatic, soulful numbers. Songs that allow for big dynamic shifts and emotional peaks will showcase her range and stage presence. Contemporary R&B or stripped-back, jazzy arrangements can also work well, allowing her to interpret well-known melodies with a fresh, adult-contemporary edge.
- Reflection (Mulan)
- Journey To The Past (Anastasia)
- When You Wish Upon A Star (Pinocchio)
- I Won’t Say (I’m in Love) (Hercules)
Zachariah Smith
Zachariah’s charismatic, energetic style is perfectly suited to Disney’s more playful or theatrical songs. He can bring a bluesy swagger, a rock edge, or a Broadway-style showmanship to many classic tunes. Choosing a number with rhythmic drive or comic flair would allow him to entertain while still delivering strong vocals. Mid-tempo anthems with room for character choices could also be a strategic pick.
- I Wan’na Be Like You (The Jungle Book)
- I’ll Make A Man Out of You (Mulan)
- Why Should I Worry (Oliver and Company)
- Strangers Like Me (Tarzan)
Which Disney songs would you like to hear each finalist sing on Sunday? Share your favorite picks and creative arrangements in the comments below — Disney week always invites bold choices and memorable reinventions, and these five singers each have the potential to make a beloved classic their own.