Disney releases new song Along the Way for Moana

With the release of a new original song, Disney is offering a first listen to the musical heart of its upcoming live-action "Moana," which sails into theaters on July 10, 2026. The song, titled "Along the Way," was released on June 15 and features a unique collaboration between the new star of the film, Catherine Lagaʻaia, the original animated voice of Moana, Auliʻi Cravalho, and Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui.

The track was written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, who composed the music for the 2016 animated film. In a behind-the-scenes featurette released with the song, Miranda explained that the idea emerged from Cravalho's role as a producer on the remake. He described crafting a "musical conversation" between the two actresses' portrayals of the character. Director Thomas Kail said the team wanted to create something distinct for the new film, leading to the concept of having both Moanas sing together.

For the performers, the song represents a symbolic passing of the torch. Cravalho said being able to pass the baton to Lagaʻaia was important, and that seeing her take on the character was a joy. Lagaʻaia described the duet as "the perfect symbolism for this...