Composer Defends Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Absence in Moana 2, Highlights Praise for His Mufasa Songs: “People Are Going To Really Like Them”

Moana 2 composer Mark Mancina has recently shared insights regarding Lin-Manuel Miranda’s absence from the film’s music score, while hinting at exciting developments with Miranda’s upcoming project, Mufasa: The Lion King. Mancina, a veteran in the industry with over 60 films and television scores to his name, has previously collaborated with Miranda on the soundtrack for the original Moana, which significantly contributed to the film’s success. However, Miranda will not be contributing musically to its sequel.

In an interview with Owen Danoff from Screen Rant, Mancina offered thoughtful reflections on the discussions surrounding Miranda’s absence from Moana 2. He acknowledged the backlash but emphasized that having Miranda work on both films may have led to an oversaturation of his musical style in such proximity. Mancina expressed his admiration for the upcoming songs in Mufasa: The Lion King, although he has yet to see the film’s final cut. He conveyed optimism for the music created by Miranda and shared insights into the value of each film’s unique soundtrack.

Well, first of all, I haven’t seen the [final cut of the] movie. When I did the songs, it was, gosh, a year ago or so. I have nothing to do with the score, but I do know the songs. I did those with Lin, and I think the songs are great. I really think the songs are strong. Is there a “Circle of Life”? No, but there are really good, really catchy songs, so I’ve got high hopes for them. I think people are going to really like them.

I think a lot of the critics that thought Lin was missing on Moana this time… I think it would have been really weird for Lin to do Moana 2 and then Mufasa. That would’ve been really oversaturated. I think his songs are going to be really welcome in Mufasa. I think people are going to really like them. I like them a lot. I think they’re really good.

The Impact of Miranda’s Absence on Mufasa: The Lion King & Moana 2

Anticipated Musical Highlights in Mufasa: The Lion King

Although Hans Zimmer will not be returning to score Mufasa: The Lion King, the film promises a reunion of musical talents with Mancina collaborating once again with Miranda after their successful partnership on the original Moana soundtrack. Additionally, Lebo M. is also involved in crafting the music for this highly anticipated prequel.

Moana’s original soundtrack remains one of Disney’s finest, and as Moana 2 and Mufasa: The Lion King are set to release in close succession, having Miranda involved in both could dilute the unique auditory experience each film seeks to create. Mancina’s commentary hints at the strategic choice to preserve the distinctiveness of each soundtrack, potentially paving the way for future collaborations between these two musical maestros. This decision implies that Disney is strategically reserving its top talents for Mufasa: The Lion King.

Our Anticipation for Mufasa: The Lion King’s Soundtrack

Disney’s Culmination of Musical Masterpieces

Mufasa with his parents in Mufasa: The Lion King

While Moana 2 boasts its own unique soundtrack—albeit receiving mixed reviews compared to Miranda’s contributions—the film has nevertheless managed to shine amidst competition, including the highly anticipated Wicked. Mancina’s insights suggest that audiences may be in for even greater musical surprises as the year progresses.

With a stellar cast that features both veteran and emerging talents, including Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala, alongside her daughter Blue Ivy Carter debuting as Nala and Simba’s daughter, Mufasa: The Lion King is shaping up to be a remarkable cinematic event.

With the musical expertise of both Mancina and Miranda at play, the anticipation surrounding the film’s soundtrack grows, raising expectations for an auditory experience similar to the catchy, engaging melodies found in Moana while potentially expanding into new territories. The indication is clear: Mufasa: The Lion King is poised to be a significant achievement in Disney’s musical repertoire.

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