Released in 1992 as part of Disney’s animated classic Aladdin, “A Whole New World” is a classic ballad performed by Brad Kane (singing voice of Aladdin) and Lea Salonga (singing voice of Princess Jasmine).
The song captures the magic of discovery and new love as the characters soar across the skies on a magic carpet ride.
Written by Alan Menken with lyrics by Tim Rice, it became an instant Disney classic.
The duet won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and the Grammy Award for Song of the Year, cementing its place as one of the most beloved Disney songs ever recorded.
“A Whole New World” English Lyrics by Brad Kane & Lea Salonga
[ALADDIN]
I can show you the world
Shining, shimmering, splendid
Tell me, Princess
Now, when did you last let your heart decide?
I can open your eyes
Take you wonder by wonder
Over, sideways, and under
On a magic carpet ride
A whole new world
A new fantastic point of view
No one to tell us no, or where to go
Or say we’re only dreaming
[JASMINE]
A whole new world
A dazzling place I never knew
But when I’m way up here, it’s crystal-clear
That now, I’m in a whole new world with you
[ALADDIN]
Now I’m in a whole new world with you
[JASMINE]
Unbelievable sights
Indescribable feeling
Soaring, tumbling, freewheeling
Through an endless diamond sky
[JASMINE & ALADDIN]
A whole new world (Don’t you dare close your eyes)
A hundred thousand things to see
(Hold your breath, it gets better)
I’m like a shooting star, I’ve come so far
I can’t go back to where I used to be
A whole new world (Every turn a surprise)
With new horizons to pursue (Every moment red-letter)
[ALADDIN & JASMINE]
I’ll chase them anywhere; there’s time to spare
Let me share this whole new world with you
[ALADDIN & JASMINE]
A whole new world (A whole new world)
That’s where we’ll be (That’s where we’ll be)
A thrilling chase, a wondrous place
[ALADDIN & JASMINE]
For you and me
Song Credits
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Singers: Brad Kane (Aladdin), Lea Salonga (Jasmine) Composer: Alan Menken Lyricist: Tim Rice Album/Soundtrack:Aladdin: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (1992) Label: Walt Disney Records |
History and Origin of the Song
“A Whole New World” was written in 1992 for Disney’s animated film Aladdin, composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Tim Rice.
Conceived as the emotional centerpiece of the movie, the duet underscores the pivotal “magic carpet ride” sequence where Aladdin shows Jasmine the world beyond palace walls.
The song was designed to contrast Aladdin’s adventurous spirit with Jasmine’s longing for freedom, creating a moment of intimacy and discovery between the two characters.
Within the film’s musical structure, it serves as both a romantic ballad and a storytelling device, marking the turning point in their relationship and anchoring the movie’s most iconic scene.
Its combination of sweeping orchestration and tender vocals elevated it to one of Disney’s most memorable love songs.
New Video Production
Following the success of the original 1992 animated sequence, Disney later produced updated video versions of “A Whole New World” to accompany soundtrack releases and anniversary editions.
The most notable is the official music video by Peabo Bryson and Regina Belle, which accompanied the single version released outside the film.
This video combined studio performance shots with stylized backdrops, presenting the song as a pop ballad for radio and television audiences.
Years later, new productions, including the 2019 live-action Aladdin, revisited the sequence with updated cinematography and CGI magic, performed by Mena Massoud (Aladdin) and Naomi Scott (Jasmine).
This reimagining preserved the emotional heart of the carpet ride while introducing modern visual effects, ensuring the song continues to enchant both longtime fans and new generations.
Aladdin: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (1992)
The Aladdin soundtrack brought Disney’s magic to life with Alan Menken’s sweeping score and unforgettable songs by Menken and lyricist Tim Rice. Winning both Academy and Grammy Awards, it remains one of Disney’s most celebrated musical achievements.
Tracklist & Notes
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Versions of “A Whole New World” Song
Over the years, “A Whole New World” has been performed by its original Disney voices and reimagined by celebrated artists. These versions highlight its timeless magic on screen, stage, and radio.
1. Live-Action Film Version (2019) – Mena Massoud & Naomi Scott
In Disney’s live-action Aladdin, Mena Massoud (Aladdin) and Naomi Scott (Jasmine) performed a refreshed version with updated orchestration, blending nostalgia with modern cinematic flair.
2. Pop Single Version (1992) – Peabo Bryson & Regina Belle
Released as the film’s end-credit single, this version topped the Billboard Hot 100 and won a Grammy, becoming the best-known radio rendition.
3. Live Concert Version – Peabo Bryson & Regina Belle
The duo has performed their Grammy-winning single at concerts and special Disney events, bringing powerful live vocals that showcase the song’s lasting appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Wrote “A Whole New World” And Why Was It Created?
The song was composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Tim Rice for Disney’s Aladdin (1992). It was written to capture the wonder of Aladdin and Jasmine’s first shared adventure on the magic carpet.
What Does “A Whole New World” Symbolize In The Film?
The duet represents freedom, discovery, and the thrill of stepping beyond one’s limits. For Jasmine, it’s seeing a life outside palace walls; for Aladdin, it’s sharing his dreams with her.
How Is The Song Placed In The Musical Structure Of Aladdin?
It serves as the film’s emotional centerpiece, blending romance and storytelling. The melody contrasts Aladdin’s excitement with Jasmine’s awe, making it both a love song and a narrative turning point.
