Top 30 Greatest Animated Villain Songs
Welcome to MsMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the best tunes by bad guys in animated films. Which animated villain song gives you the shivers? Let us know in the comments below.
#30: “On the Road”
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“Thumbelina” (1994)
We never knew we needed to see a multi-talented matriarchal toad, but now we can’t get enough. Mrs. Toad may have kidnapped Thumbelina to try to make her part of her entertainment troupe, but her song is so catchy that we can’t help but start to root for her. Voiced by Charo, Mrs. Toad is essentially the Spanish-born television star in cartoon form — complete with a glamorous outfit, makeup, and larger-than-life hair. The number has the perfect combination of whimsy and musicality, making for a completely unforgettable scene. We can’t blame the other animals for wanting to get involved as well.
#29: “How Can I Refuse?”
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“Barbie as Princess and the Pauper” (2004)
This villain song is the perfect combination of campy and devious. In this Barbie tale, the scheming Preminger is set on becoming king, no matter what it takes. In “How Can I Refuse?” he details his plan to manipulate the royal family into complying with his wishes. Martin Short uses his comedic and musical chops to sell Preminger’s sinister flamboyance. The energy builds throughout the number, conveying his growing excitement for his ominous plans. His cronies coming in to provide some comedic relief and hilarious choreography is the cherry on top. How could we possibly refuse it a spot on this list?
#28: “This Is the Thanks I Get?!”
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“Wish” (2023)
There’s nothing like a bad guy who’s convinced he’s the victim. Chris Pine voices Magnifico, a king who feels as though his subjects don’t respect him, despite granting their wishes. Although his vanity is clear to the audience for the whole number, his anger and insecurities escalate as it continues. These themes are literally reflected in the appearance of his reflection as he sings. Magnifico’s desire for submission and validation leads to his pursuit of darker magic and his descent into madness. The dark lyrics combined with the bright, poppy production make for an intriguing look at the “Wish” villain.
#27: “Prince Ali (Reprise)”
“Aladdin” (1992)
The first version of this ditty is bright and jovial, which makes this dark reprise all the more unsettling. Jafar’s take on the Genie’s song sees the vizier gleefully exposing Aladdin’s lies. He mocks him and reveals his identity. It’s the moment where everything comes crashing down for our hero, and it's hard not to feel helpless with Aladdin as Jafar shows the true extent of his power. It even ends with a spine-chilling laugh as Jafar closes in on his captives, perfectly punctuating the evil tune and leaving the audience with a sense of dread before the final showdown.
#26: “Crazy Train”
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“Trolls World Tour” (2020)
A heavy metal song reimagined as a stylized DreamWorks banger? Sign us up. While Ozzy Osbourne’s original is unparalleled, “Trolls World Tour” puts a bit of a twist on the classic hit. From the “Mad Max”-styled trolls to Rachel Bloom’s immediately recognizable voice, this cover has something for everyone. The edgy-yet-fun performance is great for kids and adults to bop along to. It’s a perfect homage to the music of the 1980s while maintaining a modern sound. And with Bloom’s effortless charisma as Queen Barb, it’s no wonder she was able to enchant so many of the characters in her misguided attempt to unite all trolls under the power of Rock.
#25: “I Wan’na Be Like You”
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“The Jungle Book” (1967)
He might not be the primary antagonist, but King Louie definitely had a memorable song. The orangutan leader in “The Jungle Book” doesn’t sing an outwardly threatening tune. With a funky vibe and jazzy music, “I Wan’na Be Like You” could come off as a harmless bop. In fact, it's so catchy that Baloo can’t help but become hypnotized and dance along to the alluring beat. Louie’s desire to learn the secrets of fire from a kidnapped Mowgli is both entertaining and menacing. The entire scene is oozing with charm and personality from every character.
#24: “The Headless Horseman”
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“The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad” (1949)
If you think of singer Bing Crosby, your first thought may be the holidays, since he’s well known for his Christmas hits. However, he also lends his voice to the second segment of “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad,” a Disney anthology film from 1949. While his narration takes center stage most of the time, the true shining moment is the surprisingly upbeat number “The Headless Horseman.” Ichabod’s reactions to the description of the fearsome character add a lot of humor to the scene. While the threats are mostly exaggerated in it, they come back in the most eerie way possible when the creature is proven to be real.
#23: “The Snow Miser Song” & “The Heat Miser Song”
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“The Year Without a Santa Claus” (1974)
Each iconic song in this pair could stand alone, but as a duo they’re unforgettable. Snow and Heat Miser are bickering siblings with incredible powers. This means they can’t stop throwing shade at each other, while Christmas and global weather patterns hang in the balance. The rivalry results in two unshakeable earworms, each with clever lyrics destined to get stuck in your head. Plus, the miniature Misers add a humorous element with their line choreography. The end result is a classic Christmas soundtrack, no matter whether you prefer it to be white or green.
#22: “Pretty Bird”
“Rio” (2011)
He may be less than two feet tall, but Nigel is still an imposing and complex villain. The vicious cockatoo’s jealousy stems from having been replaced by a beautiful parakeet in show business. All of this is perfectly summed up by his big number, “Pretty Bird.” It even takes some unexpected turns, including a surprisingly impressive rap verse. The wordplay and fourth-wall breaking humor elevate the entertainment factor. The intimidating display from Nigel definitely manages to achieve its goal of creeping out our heroic birds — and the people watching at home.
#21: “Holding Out For a Hero”
“Shrek 2” (2004)
Most of us grew up believing that Fairy Godmothers were good, pure creatures who would always protect good over evil. But then, “Shrek 2” came in hot and shattered those illusions, giving us the meanest, most two-faced Fairy Godmother ever. She may be rotten to her core, but we can’t deny that she knows how to work a stage. Still, she’s not entertaining us out of the goodness of her heart when she theatrically belts out this classic tune. No, she’s trying to make sure that Charming, who’s pretending to be Shrek, ends up with Fiona. The irony of the song choice certainly isn’t lost on us, and neither are her cruel intentions. But we also can’t help but jam along!
#20: “Big and Loud”
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“Cats Don’t Dance” (1997)
You know a villainous tune is good when it has a reprise, and that’s exactly what we get here. This number requires two sections to fully shine, and we’re definitely not complaining! Darla Dimple may be adorable, but she’s far from being a sweet innocent child. The song’s first part sees her singing to Danny, and it’s jazzy, secretly malicious, and addictive. But she drops the façade after he leaves, and that’s when things get super real. The second part of the track makes it clear that the only person she’s interested in helping is herself. Everyone else is in for a scheme of epic proportions. You know what they say, Hollywood’s a ruthless business.
#19: “No More Mr. Nice Guy”
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“The Swan Princess” (1994)
You would think turning Odette into a swan would be enough. But Rothbart isn’t going to stop there, because he can’t have anything or anybody breaking the curse. That means making sure Derek doesn’t declare a “vow of everlasting love” to Odette at the upcoming ball. And what would an evil plot be without a musical number to accompany it? Set against a cheery backdrop, “No More Mr. Nice Guy” puts Rothbart’s dark magic front and center, as he uses it to make his henchwoman Bridget look like Odette. He’s confident, determined, and utterly creepy in the best way. He was never really “Mr. Nice Guy” to begin with, but this song proved that we had just scratched the surface of his wicked ways.
#18: “Savages”
“Pocahontas” (1995)
If you weren’t scared of Governor Ratcliffe when he sang “Mine, Mine, Mine,” chances are you got spooked when “Savages” started. And we don’t blame you, because it’s addictive and frightening all at once. Ratcliffe convinces his fellow settlers that war is the only option, and the frenzy just keeps building from there. Meanwhile, the Powhatan people prepare to fight. Pretty soon, the two groups’ voices merge into one as they utter the words to this battle cry. The fiery visuals further drive the point home, making each lyric feel more pointed and deadly. The result is a number that fills us with a sense of dread, and only Pocahontas’ determination to save John Smith can calm us down.
#17: “How Bad Can I Be?”
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“The Lorax” (2012)
“The Lorax” acts as a cautionary tale, showing viewers exactly what can happen when humans put personal interests above the planet’s well-being. And perhaps nowhere is that message more obvious than in this track. As the Once-ler justifies his actions in the flashback, it becomes increasingly clear what happens when profit is deemed more important than the environment. The scariest part of all is that harmful acts of pollution were framed as something normal and necessary, as opposed to villainous. It’s this disconnect that makes “How Bad Can I Be?” so harrowing. The lyrics, juxtaposed with the dark visuals, answer the title question, and the number is sure to stop and make anybody think.
#16: “The World’s Greatest Criminal Mind”
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“The Great Mouse Detective” (1986)
Whether or not Ratigan is actually “The World's Greatest Criminal Mind” is debatable, especially given the fate he suffers at the end of the movie. But we can likely all agree that he’s among the most terrifying – and musically gifted – criminal minds in animated movie history. The elegant bad guy takes us through some of his past schemes, and guarantees that what’s coming next will outshine them all. And he’s a pretty persuasive creature. Watching him seamlessly switch gears between that deadly interlude and the number’s extravagant finish always sends shivers down our spines. Oh Ratigan, your bragging about the “crime to top all crimes” has given us a villain song we won’t soon forget.
#15: “Love Is An Open Door”
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“Frozen” (2013)
Who doesn’t love a good, honest love song? Well, apparently Hans isn’t a huge fan, because he had no problem using one to lie to Anna and move his plan along. Now, of course, the tune itself is infectious and fun-filled, which makes the fact that he’s secretly playing a game that much harder to digest. We can’t exactly blame Anna for believing him and getting swept up in the moment. If we’re being honest, we did too! Sure, we thought they were moving a little fast, but it seemed like standard Disney fare! This song is a huge part of what makes the reveal that Hans is actually a villain so shocking. That’s why it’s so disturbingly effective!
#14: “Toxic Love”
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“FernGully: The Last Rainforest” (1992)
Freed from the tree that served as his prison, the dark spirit Hexxus sings this despicable ode to sweet, sweet destruction. His enthusiasm for “diesel clouds and noxious muck” shows how much he relishes watching humans ruin the environment, in a way that’s almost sensual. For this villain, destroying nature is intoxicating - pun intended. Of course, the song’s excellence owes a lot to Hexxus’ vocal actor, the legendary Tim Curry. Curry has had plenty of experience portraying diabolical and eccentric characters, and was the perfect choice to put a little extra oomph in this twisted love song serenading environmental ruin.
#13: “Oogie Boogie’s Song”
“The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993)
If we ever met Santa Claus, we’d probably jump for joy and offer him a cozy seat along with some milk and cookies. But Oogie Boogie isn’t really the Christmas type. Not only does he keep Santa in uncomfortable and restrictive positions, but he rips him to shreds with this track! The bearded fellow tries his best to be let go, but to no avail. Oogie Boogie has no trouble asserting his dominance, towering over Santa both literally and figuratively as he sings this zippy tune. His energy and assurance take things to the next level, making the Grinch seem like a delight in comparison! “Oogie Boogie’s Song” really is the stuff of nightmares, and we love it.
#12: “Shiny”
“Moana” (2016)
We know you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but Tamatoa is just so shiny we can’t help ourselves! That, combined with his bold and saucy attitude, infuses this musical number with irresistible wit and pizzazz. He doesn’t hold back, and it’s fabulous. Yes, he’s trying to take Moana and Maui down, but he’s also giving them a show. “Shiny” is a tantalizing piece that’s as grand and enticing as they come. It’s no wonder the song’s official video has been viewed over 500 million times on YouTube. If Tamatoa ever decides to switch career paths, we’re sure Broadway would be happy to have him! We just have one question: who is his jeweler, and can we please get their number?
#11: “Cruella de Vil”
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“101 Dalmatians” (1996)
Roger Radcliffe has been looking for lyrics for his new song, and he may have found the perfect inspiration – the devil woman herself, Cruella De Vil. Along with a smooth tempo and sinister rhythm, the lyrics don’t pull any punches – describing Cruella as an evil, malevolent creature. Roger was always suspicious about her and it turns out he and his jazzy heckling were right on the ball. The ultimate kicker is that Roger’s mocking tune becomes a big hit and makes his family more money than he could have imagined. On top of that, it serves as a delightful roasting of an iconic villain.
#10: “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch”
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“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” (1966)
It’s the despicable track we always look forward to during the holidays. As we watch the Grinch performing his sinister schemes, we’re treated to this fun and catchy little tune where every verse roasts the green trickster in every way imaginable. Written by Dr. Seuss himself, the lyrics don’t hold back as they describe how deplorable, disgusting, and dastardly our leading character is… and yet, we still can’t help but love him. This devilishly enjoyable Christmas tune is made even better thanks to the deep bass voice of Thurl Ravenscroft. While other versions of the song definitely brought something unique, it’s hard to hold a candle to the original tune that made insulting scoundrels so much fun.
#9: “My Lullaby”
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“The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride” (1998)
While living up to Scar’s “Be Prepared” may seem like an impossible task, the antagonist of “The Lion King II” manages to give it a run for its money. The vengeful mother Zira gleefully plots to harm Simba and start a war in “My Lullaby.” While she claims to want her son, Kovu, to take the role of king, it’s clear that she wants that power for herself. Her twisted motivation can be seen through the dramatic lighting and theatricality, which also harkens back to “Be Prepared.” The number really allows Zira’s wickedness to shine.
#8: “Playing with the Big Boys”
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“The Prince of Egypt” (1998)
Upon his return to Egypt, Moses demonstrates the power of his god to Pharaoh Rameses II. More amused than frightened, Rameses has high priests Hotep and Huy show him what THEIR gods are capable of. Their demonstration is a confident, intimidating spectacle of smoke-and-mirrors magic tricks and creative wordplay, set to Middle Eastern-tinged music. Hotep and Huy are certain that their deities reign supreme over anyone Moses chooses to follow, and have no qualms trying to knock him down a few pegs. Of course, their attempts to undercut Moses are in vain, but at least they know how to dazzle with their oversized egos and pulse-pounding imagery.
#7: “Gaston”
“Beauty and the Beast” (1991)
No one sings their own praises like Gaston. After being embarrassed by Belle, Le Fou tries to cheer Gaston up by leading a lively waltz in the bar –the lyrics, of course, regaling the crowd with how amazing he is. It certainly does the trick of lifting Gaston’s spirits and stroking his ego, but then it shifts into him plotting out how to make Belle marry him … and the townsfolk STILL cheer him on. Guess it just goes to show that you can get away with anything if you have a catchy enough song and a charismatic personality. No wonder the villagers were so willing to join Gaston’s little manhunt with “The Mob Song”.
#6: “In The Dark of Night”
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“Anastasia” (1997)
His power restored, Rasputin is more eager than ever to eliminate the last surviving member of the Romanov family, Anastasia. With the help of a chorus of insects, he sings out his goal for vengeance with a hellish theatrical rock anthem as he prepares for his ultimate scheme. The haunting choir and driving rhythm adds a nice level of zest to this track – adding a frightening chill and renewed fear for Anya’s safety. While Christopher Lloyd – Rasputin’s voice actor - didn’t provide the vocals, his singing stand-in, Jim Cummings, does a phenomenal job of carrying the tune and really capturing the dark wizard’s depraved obsession with settling the score.
#5: “Mother Knows Best”
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“Tangled” (2010)
Empty nest syndrome is a real thing. But Gothel’s not Rapunzel’s mother, she’s her kidnapper. And she’s not trying to protect her by keeping her locked inside the tower, either. She’s only interested in the blonde hair’s magical properties. Of course, she can’t tell Rapunzel, who’s longing to head outside, any of that. That’s where “Mother Knows Best” comes in. Gothel takes the age-old adage and pairs it with a stimulating melody in an attempt to spook the wanderlust right out of Rapunzel. The number plays out within the tower, which is already jail-like enough as it is. Yet the song makes the space feel even more suffocating with its faux-caring nature and alarmist lyrics. It’s absolutely petrifying, and we’re seriously impressed.
#4: “Friends on the Other Side”
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“The Princess and the Frog” (2009)
It takes a charismatic song to sway someone into a deal with the devil, and Keith David definitely nails it as Dr. Facilier. He lures Prince Naveen and Lawrence into his home with a sinister, jazzy beat that sends shivers down your spine – promising that he can fulfill all their wishes. When they have a deal, everything explodes into a demonic, colorful extravaganza as Naveen is turned into a frog. Evil or not, the Shadow Man definitely knows how to put on a show, with one of the most haunting, toe-tapping numbers of all-time.
#3: “Poor Unfortunate Souls”
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“The Little Mermaid” (1989)
Remember that deal with the Devil issue we talked about? Well, the same rules apply under the sea. Ariel takes that risk when she goes to Ursula’s grotto for a chance to be with the human she loves. The sea witch tempts the naïve mermaid with a slow, gothic tune claiming that she only wants to help – but the menacing undertones and music arrangements say otherwise. That uneasy feeling only gets worse when the song’s pace picks up and eventually explodes into a terrifying eruption of colors as the deal is made. She may be deceitful, but we can’t deny that Ursula knows how to do business – with a Broadway and burlesque flair.
#2: “Be Prepared”
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“The Lion King” (1994)
Scar has a plan to commit his most despicable act ever so that he can finally be crowned king –and he’ll need the help of his army of hyenas. How does he motivate them? Why, with an intense and conniving anthem that doubles as a declaration of war, of course. The song is so powerful that Scar’s actor, Jeremy Irons, actually developed vocal problems during recording – leaving Jim Cummings to bring it home… and boy does he deliver. Couple that with malevolent lighting and colors, and imagery straight out of the Third Reich, and we’re left with the ultimate villainous musical number.
#1: “Hellfire”
“The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (1996)
“The Hunchback of Notre Dame” is one of the most risqué Disney films of all time – tackling subjects such as religious hypocrisy, ethnic persecution, and lust... fun for the whole family, right? We see these themes beautifully displayed in Judge Frollo’s captivating song, “Hellfire”. Here, Frollo confronts his inner demons, trying to justify his horrific actions by blaming them all on Esmeralda – the gypsy woman of his sinful desires. The horrific imagery perfectly matches his twisted mindset, while the haunting music – complete with a Hellish choir - chills viewers to the bone.
