Alan Menken's Academy Award-winning song " A Whole New World" received a stunning makeover by young pop artists Zayn and Zhavia Ward for the upcoming live-action Aladdin movie.
And boy, does this new duet reach dazzling heights.
In all deference to the 1992 synthesized top 40 hit sung by R&B artists Peabo Bryson and Regina Belle, Zayn and Zhavia's ethereal vocals on the updated cover is captivating today's music listeners.
Check out the newest "A Whole New World" delighting a new generation of fans with the music video below.
ZAYN, Zhavia Ward - A Whole New World (End Title) (From "Aladdin"/Official Video)www.youtube.com
Even the music video is stunning in its simplicity, with New York City replacing Agrabah serving as the backdrop. The pair wistfully sing from their respective locations from the rooftops of Manhattan to Bethesda Terrace in Central Park.
The middle eastern vocals in the beginning are an exquisite touch and sets the poignant tone. There is no magic carpet or magical lamps in this video.
The lack of a flashy gimmick reveals a sophisticated interpretation that is mesmerizing and almost trance-like.
The visual tone of the video is a departure from what one might expect. Instead of embracing each other as they sing, the singers seem to yearn about the one that got away or are perhaps reminiscing about happier times.
Whatever the intention, this new world has more depth and is reverberating with those who feel a little lost but are hopeful of finding their someone once again.
It helps that both singers deliver on the vocals and approach the classic material by putting their own stamp on it.
Zayn was a force performing along with international sensation One Direction up until his departure in 2015, and Zhavia Ward is a relative newcomer who was one of four finalists on Fox's
The Four: Battle for Stardom.
In May 2018, she signed with Columbia Records and was featured on Diplo and Lil Pump's single "Welcome to the Party."
We know Zayn Malik fans are out in full force and are lamenting on a lost opportunity for him to play Aladdin
.
But let's give Mena Massoud, who portrays Aladdin in the live-action film, a warm reception.
The original ballad from 1992's animated feature was sung by voice actors and singers Lea Salonga and Brad Kane.
The obligatory R&B rendition rolling through the final credits was delivered with smooth sophistication by Regina Belle and Peabo Bryson, who remains in stable condition after suffering a mild heart attack on April 29, 2019.
Bryson's medical team and family are optimistic for a speedy recovery.
The live-action remake will premiere in movie theaters on May 24, 2019.
Jane Rosenberg
Jane Rosenberg
@arianagrande/Instagram
@arianagrande/Instagram