Ne-Yo and Enhiezma

Today I have a very interesting twist to a somewhat classic song. This song is one of the most well known Disney masterpieces, coming from one of the greatest animated movies of all time. Aladdin is first of all, an absolutely incredible movie. Second, the music score in this movie is absolutely spectacular. What really caught my eye when I went back to revisit these songs, is that Aladdin was among the first Disney movies to feature a very jazz-centric score and soundtrack. Every song has that great energy that comes with being part of a huge big band kind of song. So that in itself is such a one up compared to other Disney songs. Now what makes this version of the song even better, is that this version is song by the acclaimed R&B artist, Ne-Yo. Seems weird doesn't it? That is because no one would have expected a song like this to be redone by an artist like Ne-Yo. When you look at his track record of music, jazz and big band is not a part of that. Neither is Disney music to be quite frank. But I have to say, Ne-Yo did a phenomenal job with this cover. He brings this somewhat older vibe to the song, while still keeping it bumping and energetic and fun. Which is the most important thing to do with a song like this. The energy and vivaciousness of the music is what draws us towards these kinds of jazzy songs. Ne-Yo throws in some of his own R&B twists, but also maintains the original intent and style of the song. Ne-Yo has a beautiful voice that adds this light hearted feel to the song, and the fact that he opens with a R&B styled vocalization is really cool. What I like is that as the song progresses, you can hear a regression in time period style. At the beginning we hear a smoother version of vocals and we also get a heavier bass and percussion beat. But as the song continues, we get a lot more brass and wind work and that bright energy we ever so love. And then that spectacular falsetto moment towards the end of the song. I have to say, as far as celebrity covers of Disney songs goes (which there are many of), this has to be my favorite. Today's instrumental song is a remixed version of the most popular big band song. Originally composed and performed by Benny Goodman and his orchestra, this has been redone and remixed several times. But this remix is one of the best. Enhiezma absolutely killed it with this remix. They bass boosted the original percussion and added some extra beats in to give it this bopping and bouncing feel at a fast pace. And of course they messed with the actually melody and horn work. But all in all I cannot believe how well done this remix is. I still remember the first time I heard it, my jaw dropped a bit. I hope you enjoy the music and please feel free to comment!