It’s a big summer for Disney in the movie theaters. The Mandalorian and Grogu is the first Star Wars movie in 7 years, Toy Story 5 is out and is already breaking records, and the live-action reimagining of Moana is coming out on July 10th, just in time to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the animated film’s original release. The movie has become an instant classic due to the depth and complexity of the characters, the incredible animation, the star power of Dwayne Johnson, and, of course…the music. With songs written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina (who also wrote the score), the music transported audiences to the South Pacific with a focus on authenticity and storytelling. Today, we are thrilled to be joined by Mark Mancina to discuss his work on both the animated film as well as the upcoming live action release, as well as his career collaborations with not only Lin Manuel-Miranda, but Phil Collins, Elton John, and…Eddie Van Halen.

Moana comes out on July 10th, and the soundtrack is available for purchase and streaming on June 26th

You can find Mark at www.mark-mancina.com, on Instagram @markamancina, and on YouTube @markmancinamusic.

If you’ve been paying attention, you may have noticed that there is a LOT going on around the Disney parks. There are re-imaginings and updates to existing rides, and lots of news coming out about upcoming rides as well. This year, we’ve already seen the re-opening of the newly redesigned Rock n Roller Coaster starring the Muppets and news of a significant overhaul of Carousel of Progress, which is creating a lot of…dialogue amongst the Disney interwebs. But another, very significant update is now open. I’m talking about the new Soarin’ Across America, an update to the classic ride to celebrate America’s 250th Birthday (or in technical terms, our semi quincentennial). The ride, which now features scenes from across America’s most iconic sights and landmarks, has a newly updated score by legendary composer Bruce Broughton. Bruce rejoins the podcast to discuss his work on the project, as well as other Disney and non-Disney music he has been working on.

You can check out all of Bruce's amazing work at www.brucebroughton.com

On the podcast, we talk a lot about the emotional power that Disney music is able to convey, and most of the time, we experience that power passively—on a screen or through our headphones. But the real magic of Disney music happens when you are able to experience it live, and throughout the Disney parks there are exceptional musicians who play that music directly—and unfiltered—to the guests and create a stunning connection. Today, we are joined by one of those musicians, Michael Mastroianni, who you have likely seen at EPCOT, the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review, or at the River Roost Lounge. Michael talks about his musical background and his experience creating live musical magic at Walt Disney World and on the Disney Cruise Line.

Please follow Michael at www.mastromjm.com and on all socials @mastromjm.