Can You Complete the Song "Under the Sea" from Disney's The Little Mermaid?

Released in 1989, Disney's The Little Mermaid is a landmark animated film that captivated audiences with its enchanting story, memorable characters, and stunning animation. Based on Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale, the film follows the journey of Ariel, a young mermaid princess who longs to explore the human world. Among its many highlights, one of the most beloved elements is the song "Under the Sea," performed by Sebastian, a wise and witty crab.

At the heart of The Little Mermaid is Ariel, voiced by Jodi Benson, who is the youngest daughter of King Triton, ruler of the underwater kingdom of Atlantica. Ariel is not content with her life beneath the waves; she is fascinated by humans and their world. Her curiosity leads her to collect human artifacts and dream of living on land. One fateful night, she witnesses a shipwreck and saves Prince Eric, played by Christopher Daniel Barnes. Ariel falls in love with him at first sight but must return to the sea before he awakens.King Triton disapproves of Ariel's fascination with humans and forbids her from venturing to the surface. However, Ariel's desire to be part of Eric's world drives her to make a dangerous deal with Ursula, the sea witch. In exchange for her voice, Ariel receives human legs but has only three days to win Eric's love with a "true love's kiss." If she fails, she will belong to Ursula forever.

One of the standout moments in The Little Mermaid is the song "Under the Sea." This lively calypso tune is performed by Sebastian as he tries to convince Ariel that life in the ocean is far superior to life on land. The song encapsulates the joy and vibrancy of underwater life while highlighting the dangers and challenges of being human.The lyrics celebrate the beauty of oceanic existence: "The seaweed is always greener in somebody else's lake." This line reflects a common theme in many stories—the idea that people often envy what they do not have. Sebastian emphasizes that under the sea, there are no worries or troubles, contrasting it with the complexities of human life. The upbeat rhythm and catchy melody make it an instant classic.

Composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Howard Ashman, "Under the Sea" won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Its infectious energy and clever wordplay have made it a staple in Disney's musical repertoire. The song’s arrangement includes vibrant instrumentation that evokes a sense of movement and excitement, perfectly capturing the essence of life beneath the waves.The impact of "Under the Sea" extends beyond its initial release.

The themes presented in The Little Mermaid and specifically through "Under the Sea" are multifaceted. The song conveys a message about appreciating one's current circumstances while also exploring desires for change and adventure. It reflects Ariel's internal struggle between her longing for freedom and her loyalty to her family.Moreover, "Under the Sea" serves as a cautionary tale about making hasty decisions without fully understanding their consequences. Ariel’s choice to trade her voice for legs ultimately leads her into perilous situations that threaten not only her happiness but also her family’s safety.

The Little Mermaid remains a beloved story that has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its enchanting story and memorable characters continue to inspire new generations. The song "Under the Sea," with its vibrant melody and meaningful lyrics, encapsulates much of what makes this film special. It celebrates life’s joys while reminding us that true fulfillment comes from embracing who we are rather than longing for what we do not possess. As Disney continues to reimagine its classics for new audiences, The Little Mermaid will undoubtedly remain a cherished tale for years to come.

And now we leave you with a quiz to complete the song "Under the Sea." Enjoy the song while humming its melodies and lyrics! Good luck!