When You Believe (Disney+)? Exploring the Magic Behind the Oscar-Winning Song

“When You Believe” on Disney+ most often refers to the powerful and emotionally resonant song featured prominently in the DreamWorks animated film The Prince of Egypt, which is available for streaming on the platform. While Disney didn’t produce The Prince of Egypt, they acquired the rights to it along with the rest of the 20th Century Fox catalog, placing this gem within their streaming library. The song itself is a cornerstone of the film, encapsulating themes of faith, hope, and overcoming adversity, and remains a beloved classic for many viewers.

The Enduring Appeal of “When You Believe”

“When You Believe” transcends its role as a movie soundtrack piece. It’s an anthem. It’s a prayer. It’s a testament to the power of belief in the face of overwhelming odds. Its enduring appeal lies in its universality. Regardless of your religious background or personal circumstances, the message of believing in something bigger than yourself, of having faith even when the path ahead seems impossible, resonates deeply.

The Historical Context of the Song

The song is strategically placed within The Prince of Egypt during a pivotal moment: after the Israelites have miraculously crossed the Red Sea and escaped slavery in Egypt. It’s a moment of profound liberation and newfound hope, but also one of uncertainty. The song captures the conflicting emotions of joy, relief, and the realization that the journey is far from over. The historical backdrop of the Exodus, a cornerstone of both Jewish and Christian traditions, lends the song a weight and significance that is palpable.

The Powerhouse Vocal Performances

Let’s be honest, you can’t talk about “When You Believe” without mentioning the vocal titans behind it. The Prince of Egypt version features the incredible voices of Michelle Pfeiffer and Sally Dworsky. But the most well-known rendition, the one that cemented the song’s place in pop culture history, is the duet performed by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. This collaboration, a long-awaited dream for many, brought together two of the greatest vocalists of all time. Their rendition is nothing short of breathtaking, a powerful display of vocal prowess and emotional depth that elevates the song to another level.

The Academy Award Win

“When You Believe” was written by Stephen Schwartz (music and lyrics), a renowned composer known for his work on Godspell, Wicked, and Pocahontas. The song’s brilliance was recognized by the Academy Awards, where it won the Oscar for Best Original Song in 1999. This win solidified its status as a cinematic classic and brought even more attention to the film and its themes. The acceptance speech itself was a moment of celebration, a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “When You Believe”

Here are some common questions that often arise when discussing “When You Believe” and its connection to Disney+ and The Prince of Egypt:

FAQ 1: Is The Prince of Egypt a Disney movie?

No, The Prince of Egypt was produced by DreamWorks Animation, not Walt Disney Animation Studios. However, since Disney acquired 20th Century Fox (now 20th Century Studios), they also acquired the rights to distribute The Prince of Egypt, which is why it’s available on Disney+.

FAQ 2: Where can I stream The Prince of Egypt?

Currently, The Prince of Egypt is available for streaming on Disney+. It’s also sometimes available for rent or purchase on other platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play.

FAQ 3: Who sang “When You Believe” in The Prince of Egypt movie?

In the film The Prince of Egypt, “When You Believe” is primarily sung by Michelle Pfeiffer, as Tzipporah, and Sally Dworsky, providing the soaring vocals that accompany the emotional climax.

FAQ 4: Are there different versions of “When You Believe”?

Yes, there are several versions. The most famous is the pop version performed by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. There is also the version featured in the film The Prince of Egypt, which is sung by Michelle Pfeiffer and Sally Dworsky. Other artists have covered the song as well.

FAQ 5: What is “When You Believe” about?

The song is fundamentally about the power of faith and hope, especially during times of hardship and despair. It emphasizes that even when miracles seem impossible, belief can make them a reality.

FAQ 6: Why is “When You Believe” so popular?

Its popularity stems from its powerful message of hope, its beautiful melody, and the incredible vocal performances that bring it to life. The song’s association with The Prince of Egypt, a beloved animated film, also contributes to its enduring appeal.

FAQ 7: Who wrote the lyrics and music for “When You Believe”?

The music and lyrics for “When You Believe” were written by Stephen Schwartz, a renowned composer and lyricist known for his work on Godspell, Pocahontas, and Wicked.

FAQ 8: Did “When You Believe” win any awards?

Yes, “When You Believe” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1999. It also received numerous other nominations and awards.

FAQ 9: Is there a music video for the Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston version of “When You Believe”?

Yes, there is a music video for the Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston version of “When You Believe”. It features both singers performing the song against a backdrop of historical footage and imagery.

FAQ 10: Where does “When You Believe” appear in The Prince of Egypt movie?

“When You Believe” appears towards the end of The Prince of Egypt, after the Israelites have successfully crossed the Red Sea and escaped from Egypt. It serves as a celebration of their newfound freedom and a reaffirmation of their faith.

FAQ 11: Can I find sheet music for “When You Believe”?

Yes, sheet music for “When You Believe” is widely available online and in music stores. You can find arrangements for various instruments and vocal ranges.

FAQ 12: What is the legacy of “When You Believe”?

The legacy of “When You Believe” is that of a powerful and uplifting anthem of hope and faith. It continues to inspire listeners of all ages and backgrounds, reminding them of the importance of believing in themselves and the possibility of miracles, even in the face of adversity. It’s a song that has stood the test of time, and its message resonates as strongly today as it did upon its release. Its inclusion on Disney+ ensures that new generations will discover and connect with its powerful message for years to come.