The official Disney and Pixar Hoppers soundtrack dropped March 6, the same day the film hit theaters, and it brings together two very different musical worlds in a way that actually works. SZA’s original song “Save The Day” leads the release, paired with a complete score from composer Mark Mothersbaugh. If you’ve already seen the film, the music hits differently knowing the full story behind how it came together.
Director Daniel Chong commented, “SZA’s music saved me during the making of this movie. It was a lifeline during the stress of the filmmaking process, a voice that comforted and inspired me through it all. It felt so perfect to have an original song by SZA, to have her give voice to the movie and its hopeful themes. When we first heard the song, some of us cried; SZA perfectly captured the heart of our main character, Mabel. ‘Save The Day’ is not just an emotional journey through Mabel’s convictions, but an anthem for a whole generation just looking for some runway to change the world. Our movie is forever grateful to Solána, Rob Bisel, and Ben Lovett for this beautiful gift.” We covered the song’s release back in February if you want the full breakdown on how it came together.
SZA wrote the track alongside Ben Lovett and Rob Bisel, and Chong made a point of thanking all three by name. The song centers on the film’s lead character, Mabel, a young environmental activist who goes to pretty wild lengths to protect a glade near her home. If you haven’t seen it yet, our full Hoppers review calls it one of Pixar’s funniest and most entertaining films in years, so the soundtrack has a strong movie behind it.
Then there’s Mothersbaugh, who Devo fans already know can do a lot with an unconventional brief. Chong described him as a creative force who locked into the film’s energy immediately, delivering something full of charm and genuine heart. Mothersbaugh himself said the film’s message felt connected to the kind of thing he’s always cared about, describing it as positive information worth putting into the world.
For collectors, there’s a special die-cut vinyl of “Save The Day” shaped like Mabel, available for pre-order exclusively through Disney Music Emporium. It’s the kind of piece that will appeal to anyone who wants a physical connection to the film beyond the standard merch. Speaking of which, if you’re planning a theater trip, the Hoppers popcorn bucket guide covers everything available at AMC, Cinemark, and Harkins so you know what to look for before you go.
Fans also got an early listen on SiriusXM’s Disney Hits channel starting February 18, which gave the song a few weeks of radio life before the full release. The Hoppers experience at this point extends well beyond the screen. There’s even a Hoppers garden activation at EPCOT for anyone visiting Walt Disney World.
Hear Why SZA Made the Hoppers Director Cry on the New Soundtrack
The soundtrack is streaming now across all major platforms. Apple, Spotify, and Amazon!
