Disney have shared the first single from A Whole New Sound, an upcoming record of Disney classics reimagined by alternative, rock, and pop punk bands. Kicking things off is Simple Plan, with their cover of “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” in honor of The Lion King’s 30th anniversary.
“We wanted to pay homage to Sir Elton John’s original version while also adding our own style to it and making it sound fun and energetic. We’re really stoked by how it turned out and we hope everyone will enjoy it,” the band shared. They also reflected on their connection to Disney and its music, explaining, “we grew up watching Disney movies with our families and now we get to enjoy them with our own kids so it’s pretty amazing to have been invited to be on this album.”
On August 9th, Simple Plan will also take the stage at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, Disney’s annual convention, where they’ll perform the new cover.
Disney hasn’t revealed the complete list of songs and artists that will be featured on A Whole New Sound, but they have confirmed that the full album and vinyl will be available later this year.
Disney recently released The Lion King’s soundtrack on zoetrope vinyl, which features moving images of the film when played. “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” was originally cut from an early version of the now-iconic film, but after Elton John insisted it should be reinstated it went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song. The soundtrack remains the second-highest selling album in Elton John’s catalogue, following only his 1974 compilation record Greatest Hits.
Listen to Simple Plan’s cover of “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” now.
