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Leigh Harline Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Leigh Harline Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
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After serving as a music director at a radio station, composer Leigh Harline joined Walt Disney Productions and created numerous musical works.

He is also known as the composer of When You Wish Upon a Star, the theme song for the Disney film Pinocchio, for which he won the Academy Award for Best Original Score and Best Original Song in 1940.

Furthermore, he was named a Disney Legend in 2001, among many other achievements.

In this article, we present a ranking of Leigh Harline’s most popular songs!

Leigh Harline Popular Songs Ranking [2026]

Wish Upon a StarLeigh Harline1rank/position

When You Wish Upon A Star – kno Piano Music – Sheet music transcription
Wish Upon a StarLeigh Harline

Composed by Leigh Harline as the theme song for Disney’s 1940 film Pinocchio, this piece celebrates the precious belief in dreams through its simple motif of wishing upon a star shining in the night sky.

Its universal message—that anyone can cherish any wish—resonates with children and adults alike, and it has long been beloved as a jazz standard.

It won Best Original Song at the 13th Academy Awards and ranked seventh on the AFI list of the 100 greatest songs in film history, shining brightly in the annals of film music.

With its gently ascending melody and sophisticated harmonies, played softly on the piano it creates a magical atmosphere perfect for a starry Christmas night.

It’s also an ideal choice for moments spent playing at home with family, or for leading listeners into a dreamlike world at a party.

When You Wish Upon A StarLeigh Harline2rank/position

Sara Bareilles – When You Wish Upon a Star (From “Disney 100”)
When You Wish Upon A StarLeigh Harline

This commercial depicts various people enjoying Tokyo Disney Resort alongside everyday outdoor scenes, conveying how the resort has supported each of their memories.

It expresses how memories made in a special place deepen bonds and connect to happiness in everyday life and in the future.

Further enhancing the happy, warm atmosphere shown in the footage is “When You Wish Upon a Star,” familiar as the theme song from Pinocchio.

The gentle vocals layered over the soft-sounding arrangement are striking, and they truly have a calming effect on listeners.

When You Wish upon a StarLeigh Harline3rank/position

Cynthia Erivo – When You Wish Upon A Star (From “Pinocchio”/Audio Only)
When You Wish upon a StarLeigh Harline

Born from Disney’s film Pinocchio, this song has continued to be loved around the world as an anthem of dreams and hope.

Its simple yet moving message says that if you wish upon a star, anyone can make their dreams come true.

Since its 1940 release, it has been covered by many artists and embraced as a jazz standard.

Many of you have likely heard it in various contexts, such as in Disney’s logo sequence or theme park shows.

It’s also perfect for marking life’s special moments, like wedding processions and recessions.

A heartwarming song that gives you the courage to pursue your dreams.

When You Wish upon a StarLeigh Harline4rank/position

When You Wish Upon a Star for flute and piano
When You Wish upon a StarLeigh Harline

This piece captivates with its beautiful melody and message of hope.

Born as the theme song for the 1940 film Pinocchio, it quickly became an iconic Disney tune.

Covered by many artists, it’s a popular song also used in the Disney logo and theme parks.

It’s great for beginner flutists too: with its relaxed tempo and lovely melodic line, it’s perfect for honing basic playing techniques.

The lyrics, which give you the courage to pursue your dreams, are also deeply moving.

It’s a must-play not only for Disney fans but also for anyone seeking soothing music.

Tokyo Disneyland – Pinocchio’s Daring Journey Medley: “Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee ~ When You Wish Upon a Star”Leigh Harline5rank/position

Disney Music: Pinocchio’s Daring Journey Medley – Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee ~ When You Wish Upon a Star
Tokyo Disneyland - Pinocchio’s Daring Journey Medley: “Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee ~ When You Wish Upon a Star”Leigh Harline

This medley of iconic Disney songs features four pieces that form the core of Pinocchio’s story.

Ranging from lively, upbeat rhythms to tender, wistful melodies, the music vividly expresses a spectrum of emotions.

In step with the narrative, it conveys diverse messages—including the joy of freedom, the warmth of fatherly love, and the importance of dreams and hope.

Including an Academy Award–winning song from 1940, this medley is also featured in a Tokyo Disneyland attraction, captivating many guests.

Perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the world of Disney while enjoying piano performance, it offers an experience that feels as if you’ve stepped right into the story.

Wish Upon a StarLeigh Harline / Ned Washington6rank/position

From Pinocchio, it’s When You Wish Upon a Star.

Many beautiful songs have come from Disney films, but this one is in a class of its own.

Not only is it renowned for its beauty and popularity, it also sounds wonderful on piano, guitar, and of course with a full orchestra.

It’s also perfect for listening to on a quiet night when the stars are out.

Wish Upon a StarLeigh Harline & Ned Washington7rank/position

This is an insert song from a film that depicts the adventures of Pinocchio, a marionette made by toy craftsman Geppetto, on his journey to become a real human boy.

It is one of Disney’s signature songs and the familiar tune that plays before Disney movies begin.

It was also used as the motif song for the drama Wish Upon a Star: 4.1 Million Stars Born in a Seven-Mat Room, starring Tsuyoshi Domoto, the first joint production by Disney and Fuji TV.