Sing [2016] [Original Motion Picture Soundtrack]

The soundtrack to Illumination Entertainment's 2016 animated film Sing presents reinterpreted pop classics -- both old and new -- performed by an ensemble featuring Tori Kelly, Taron Egerton, Seth MacFarlane, Nick Kroll, Reese Witherspoon, and Scarlett Johansson, who play anthropomorphic animals competing in a singing competition. In addition to covering a wide range of hits by acts like Elton John, Steve Winwood, Shocking Blue, Paul Anka, Daft Punk, and Taylor Swift, the cast performs an audition medley showcasing snippets from Lady Gaga, Van Halen, Seal, Nicki Minaj, Digital Underground, and Crazy Town. Originals by Cat Stevens ("The Wind"), Gipsy Kings ("Bamboleo"), and Queen with David Bowie ("Under Pressure") also appear. Among the wealth of covers, lead single "Faith" joins Stevie Wonder and Ariana Grande on an original Ryan Tedder/Benny Blanco-penned track. A deluxe edition includes a duet version of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" by Jennifer Hudson and Tori Kelly, as well as an acoustic take on Kelly's cover of Stevie Wonder's "Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing." ~ Neil Z. Yeung