"Something There" by Paige O'Hara, Robby Benson, Jerry Orbach, Angela Lansbury & David Ogden Stiers: Song Details, Meaning & Impact
Song Credits:
- Producers: Alan Menken & Howard Ashman
- Writers: Alan Menken & Howard Ashman
- Album: Beauty and the Beast (Soundtrack from the Motion Picture)
- Release Date: October 29, 1991
- Track #: 7
- Language: English
- Genre: Pop, Musicals, Children's Music
- Label: Buena Vista Pictures Distribution Inc.
Exploring the meaning of "Something There"
"Something There" is a pivotal moment in the soundtrack of Beauty and the Beast, capturing the developing feelings between Belle and the Beast. The song portrays the transformative change in their relationship. Initially, Belle perceives the Beast as coarse and unrefined, but over time, she begins to see a softer, more vulnerable side to him, igniting feelings she never expected.
History and Inspiration: Written by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, "Something There" takes place after the Beast saves Belle from the wolves and begins to soften his demeanor. Belle recognizes something in him that she hadn't before, and this realization forms the emotional crux of the song. The arrangement is lush and melodic, capturing the beauty and complexity of this emotional turning point.
The song’s structure alternates between Belle's perspective and the Beast's, with background characters like Lumière, Mrs. Potts, and Cogsworth commenting on the shift in their relationship. These shifts in perspective highlight the uniqueness of the Beast's transformation—not just in physical form, but in his internal growth and self-awareness. Through a combination of lush orchestration and relatable emotions, "Something There" communicates universal themes of acceptance, change, and the recognition of beauty in unexpected places.
Key Imagery and Metaphors:
- Belle’s words, "he was mean and he was coarse and unrefined," highlight the Beast’s earlier self, while "there’s something in him that I simply didn’t see" underscores her realization that even someone with flaws has worth.
- The Beast’s internal monologue ("No, it can't be") reflects his disbelief at Belle's changing perception of him, showing his self-doubt despite his efforts to transform.
Similar songs with similar messages:
- "A Whole New World" by Brad Kane & Lea Salonga (from Aladdin): Both songs share themes of personal transformation and discovering the unknown. In "A Whole New World," Aladdin and Jasmine discover each other’s worlds, much like how Belle and the Beast uncover each other's vulnerabilities. Both songs emphasize a magical moment of connection between characters who have previously felt isolated and misunderstood.
- "I See the Light" by Mandy Moore & Zachary Levi (from Tangled): Similar to "Something There," this song marks the moment when Rapunzel and Eugene realize their deep connection. The lyrics speak to discovering something in each other that was always there, hidden beneath the surface. Like Belle and the Beast, Rapunzel and Eugene’s journey is marked by growing trust and mutual respect.
- "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" by Elton John & Tim Rice (from The Lion King): This song explores the realization of love and mutual understanding, much like Belle and the Beast's gradual recognition of their feelings for each other. Both songs use lush orchestration to enhance the growing sense of romance and emotional connection, even in the face of uncertainty.
- "If I Never Knew You" by Jon Secada & Shanice (from Pocahontas): The emotional pull in this song is similar to "Something There," where the characters express how much they have come to mean to each other, even after initially doubting their connection. The longing and uncertainty expressed here mirrors Belle and the Beast's evolving feelings.
- "For the First Time in Forever" by Kristen Bell & Idina Menzel (from Frozen): Both songs share a sense of discovery and emotional awakening. Elsa and Anna's expressions of hope and yearning in "For the First Time in Forever" echo the excitement and surprise Belle feels as she begins to see the Beast in a new light.
- "Love is an Open Door" by Kristen Bell & Santino Fontana (from Frozen): Though the tone is more playful, both songs explore the excitement of realizing that love can bloom in unexpected circumstances. "Love is an Open Door" focuses on the initial rush of romance, while "Something There" is about gradual recognition and a deeper emotional connection.
Questions & answers
- Why does Belle start seeing the Beast differently in "Something There"?
- Belle's perception of the Beast shifts as she begins to see beyond his outward appearance. Initially, he seemed frightening and unkind, but after he saves her from the wolves and they share personal moments, she begins to recognize his vulnerability and kindness. The song reflects her realization that true beauty is more than skin deep.
- What role does the transformation of the Beast play in the song?
- The Beast's transformation is not just physical but emotional. His slow shift from anger and isolation to openness and kindness allows Belle to see a different side of him, one that is capable of love and affection. This transformation is reflected in the lyrics as the characters begin to view each other in a new, more compassionate light.
- How do the secondary characters (Lumière, Mrs. Potts, Cogsworth) enhance the song's meaning?
- The secondary characters serve as comic relief but also represent the broader theme of hope and change. Their commentary adds a lighthearted touch to the serious transformation happening between Belle and the Beast. Their lines like "Well, who'd have thought?" emphasize the surprise and wonder of love blossoming in unexpected places.
Chart Performance and Awards
"Something There" is a key track on the iconic Beauty and the Beast soundtrack, which continues to be a beloved classic. The song received a Gold certification from the RIAA in December 2024, affirming its continued popularity. It also contributed to the success of the entire soundtrack, which peaked at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and remains a favorite in the Disney musical canon.
Fan and Media Reactions
“There’s something magical about this song – it’s a true testament to the power of storytelling through music. The growth in Belle and the Beast’s relationship is captured perfectly.”
– Animation Blogger, 2024
“The unexpected softness of the Beast is something I never saw coming, and this song captures that so well. It's beautiful, both musically and emotionally.”
– Film Critic,
2023
“'Something There' perfectly captures that moment in any relationship where you start to realize the other person isn’t who you thought they were. It’s full of surprise and warmth.”
– Disney Fan, 2025
“I’m in love with how this song reflects the deeper message of Beauty and the Beast. It’s not just about love; it’s about seeing someone for who they truly are.”
– Musical Review, 2023
“This is one of the songs I play on repeat. It’s hard not to get swept up in the emotional build-up.”
– YouTube Comment, 2024