We’re two-thirds of the way through 2020 and I’ve already got enough original songs to fill a couple awards show category ballots. Here are my 10 favorites of the year so far. And yes, three of them are from the same film:
“CARRIED ME WITH YOU”
Brandi Carlile’s closing credits song for Disney/Pixar’s “Onward” is hard to ignore. It matches the story that just unfolded very well.
“COSMIC GROOVE”
I’ve loved this one from Lucie Vagenheim since the moment I first heard it while watching the animated feature “SamSam” earlier this summer. It’s. So. Catchy.
“FEELS LIKE HOME”
The talented Auli’i Cravalho carries much of “All Together Now” (Netflix), and this song she performs helps emphasize the intentions of director Brett Haley’s film.
“FREE”
Charlie Puth sings this song during Disney’s “The One and Only Ivan”. It’s written by the incredible Diane Warren and has a sweet message, combined with a hefty beat. Can it score Warren her 12th career Oscar nomination and first win? We’ve got a long way to go, but I suspect The Mouse House will want to campaign her.
“HOME THOUGHTS FROM ABROAD”
Don’t overlook “Military Wives”, starring Kristin Scott Thomas and Sharon Horgan, and this big number from the ensemble cast.
“LIKE I DO”
You’ll be okay that this one from “The High Note” is an earworm because the melody is irresistibly good. Kelvin Harrison, Jr. and Tracee Ellis Ross duet to this strong song about relationships and life.
“LOVE MYSELF”
“High Note” Song No. 2 will likely be put up for Academy Awards consideration by Focus Features so Tracee Ellis Ross has a chance to sing it on the Oscar stage. If there’s an Oscar ceremony on a stage. It’s a moving ballad that speaks to Ross’ character in the film.
“ONLY THE YOUNG”
Taylor Swift’s empowerment song in her Netflix documentary “Miss Americana” is an anthem for this generation.
“TRACK 8”
The third song from “The High Note” to appear on this list is a full-on showcase for Harrison, Jr.
“US AGAINST THE UNIVERSE”
Every song in “Phineas and Ferb The Movie: Candace Against the Universe” is great. This tune is the showcase at the end of the film — right before my favorite “final moment” in a movie this year. If you’ve been a “P&F” fan, you’ll find “Us Against the Universe” a positive, emotional and memorable song. What more could you want?