Morisette and Darren Espanto Covers “A Whole New World” for New Generation

Remember how Disney loves to create “localized” versions of their songs when they release a new film? Well for the upcoming Aladdin live-action remake, we have two talented artists who will be covering the classic song “A Whole New World” in the form of Darren Espanto and Morisette.

‘A Whole New World’ has enthralled generations of audiences and brought the shining, shimmering, splendid story of Disney’s Aladdin to life. The iconic song by award-winning composer, Alan Menken, garnered multiple awards, including a Grammy Award for Song of the Year and an Academy Award for Best Original Song, while the film also won an Academy Award for Best Original Score.

The award-winning song is especially close to many Filipino hearts because Disney tapped Filipino Broadway star, Lea Salonga, to provide the singing voice of the brave princess Jasmine in the 1992 animated film.

Now, Disney is reimagining the beloved tale of Aladdin and along with it, revamping its timeless music for a new generation. In the Philippines, Disney is passing on the legacy of Aladdin’s music to two of the country’s young vocal powerhouses, Morissette and Darren Espanto, who worked together on a localized version of the film’s most successful song, ‘A Whole New World’.

“Here at Disney Philippines, we collaborate with like-minded brands and individuals to deliver the best experiences to our Filipino fans in a locally relevant manner. Through our localization efforts, we continue to build connections with Filipino fans to bring them even closer to their favorite characters and stories, such as Aladdin”, shared Veronica Cabalinan, Country Head of The Walt Disney Company Philippines.

At a special listening party with the media, Morissette and Darren Espanto treated guests to an amazing live performance of the much-anticipated duet. Here, Disney also gave attendees a first glimpse of the magical music video.

“I grew up with Disney, listening and singing along to the songs of so many of their movies. I never would have imagined that I would be given the opportunity to sing one of their most amazing classics. It’s truly a dream come true to work with a brand that has brought me so many happy childhood memories and now, to be a part of the childhood experiences of an entirely new generation,” shared Darren.

For Morissette, taking on the project was a great responsibility, “The fact that the original version was sung by the legendary Lea Salonga, makes being chosen for this project truly an honor. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I wish our rendition of this beautiful song makes people happy.”

Walt Disney Pictures’ “Aladdin” opens in Philippine theaters on May 22, 2019. Tickets to the film will be available for sale starting May 10. Use #AladdinPH to join the conversations online.

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About Aladdin
A thrilling and vibrant live-action adaptation of Disney’s animated classic, “Aladdin” is the exciting tale of the charming street rat Aladdin, the courageous and self-determined Princess Jasmine and the Genie who may be the key to their future.
Directed by Guy Ritchie, who brings his singular flair for fast-paced, visceral action to the fictitious port city of Agrabah, “Aladdin” is written by John August and Ritchie based on Disney’s “Aladdin.”

Walt Disney Pictures’ “Aladdin” opens in Philippine theaters on May 22, 2019. Use the #AladdinPH to join the conversations online.