Ariel vs Elsa: Which Disney Princess Has the Greatest Voice?

When it comes to Disney princesses, the voices of these legendary ladies bring magic to life on screen and through music.

This comparison focuses on two powerhouse singers, Idina Menzel and Jodi Benson. Both have delivered enchanting performances and have earned their places among the greatest Disney soundtracks.

Idina Menzel’s Powerful Voice

Idina Menzel, known for her role as Elsa in Frozen and numerous Broadway hits, brings a powerful and emotional delivery to her roles. Her voice is renowned for its range, power, and emotional depth, making her a standout choice for complex characters.

Idina Menzel won three Tony Awards for Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Broadway Musical, and a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album. In addition, her song 'Let It Go' reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, demonstrating her immense talent and reach beyond the stage.

Comparison Based on Achievement

When it comes to the achievements of the voice actors, Jodi Benson and Idina Menzel stand tall:

Jodi Benson, who voiced Ariel, has won a Tony Award for her portrayal as Calliope in Aladdin. Idina Menzel has earned a Tony, an Emmy, and the aforementioned Grammy, making her a triple-award winner in the entertainment industry.

Based on achievement, Idina Menzel’s vocal prowess is a testament to her incredible talent. It’s clear that both women have achieved great heights, but the unique set of accolades held by Idina Menzel highlight her overall versatility and depth in musical performance.

Character Importance and Musical Difficulty

The vocal importance and musical difficulty of their respective roles are another factor to consider:

Ariel: Ariel's voice plays a pivotal role in her storyline. The song 'Part of Your World' is both haunting and emotive, serving as a crucial element of her character development. Her voice bargaining with the sea witch Ursula is a critical plot point, adding depth and drama to her transformation.

Elsa: Elsa's singing, particularly 'Let It Go' and 'Into the Unknown,' showcases her emotional journey. While her magical ice and snow abilities are the central plot devices in Frozen, her songs allocate a significant emotional weight to her character. 'Into the Unknown' and 'Show Yourself' are deeply personal moments that resonate with audiences.

Based on their character importance and the musical difficulty, considerations lean in favor of Elsa and Idina Menzel. The complexity and emotional depth of Elsa's musical performances elevate her role and stand out in the overall narrative.

Personal Preference and Vocals

When it comes to personal preference, both Idina Menzel and Jodi Benson are highly regarded:

Idina Menzel’s vocal range and ability to hit notes with power and emotion make her a favorite among many. However, Jodi Benson’s sincerity and ability to convey genuine emotion in 'Part of Your World' are equally compelling. Her performance is widely admired for its clarity and emotional resonance.

Both voices hold their own, and it’s often a matter of personal taste. Idina Menzel has the broader vocal range, allowing her to hit high notes with ease. Jodi Benson brings a unique warmth and sincerity that touches the heart deeply, making her Ariel performance truly memorable.

Conclusion

In the comparison between Idina Menzel (Elsa) and Jodi Benson (Ariel), both voices represent the best of Disney’s legendary performers. While Idina Menzel’s vocal achievements are widely recognized, Ariel's voice and musical complexity are pivotal to her character's development.

For me, they are evenly matched. Idina Menzel’s powerful and emotive voice stands out, as does Jodi Benson’s emotional sincerity and true artistry. If you want to hear me sing their iconic songs, you can find 'Part of Your World' and 'Into the Unknown'.

Regardless of who you think has the greater voice, both Disney princesses have delivered timeless music that continues to captivate audiences.