Under the Sea
"Under the Sea" is a song from Disney's 1989 animated film The Little Mermaid, composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Howard Ashman.[3] It is influenced by the calypso style of the Caribbean which originated in Trinidad and Tobago, as well as reggae, which originated in Jamaica. The song was performed in the film by Samuel E. Wright. The track won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1989,[3] the first for a Disney film since "Chim Chim Cher-ee" from Mary Poppins in 1964.[4] Additionally, the song won the Grammy Award for Best Song Written for Visual Media in 1991.[5]
"Under the Sea"
December 13, 1989
1988
3:16
- Menken
- Ashman
The song is a plea by the crab Sebastian convincing Ariel to remain sea-bound, and resist her desire to become a human in order to spend her life with Prince Eric, with whom she has fallen in love. Sebastian warns of the struggles of human life, while at the same time expounding the benefits of a care-free life underwater. However, his plea falls on deaf ears, as Ariel leaves before the end of the song.
The song is present throughout all the Walt Disney parks and resorts and the Disney Cruise Line.
The song was later performed by Daveed Diggs in the 2023 remake.
"Under the Sea"
February 26, 2008
4:06
Alan Menken