Christina Aguilera, Reflection (2020) [From Mulan] | Track Review 🎵

With the release of “Reflection (2020)” from Mulan, listeners now have two contrasting versions of the classic courtesy of Christina Aguilera.

More than two decades after the recording the original, Christina Aguilera reprises her performance of “Reflection,” the main single from Walt Disney’s Mulan.  Obviously, “Reflection (2020)” sounds quite different from the version that appeared on the 1998 film soundtrack as well as her 1999 self-titled debut album as the sixth track. Back in 1998, Aguilera was 17 when the film was released that summer.  Now, she’s 39.

The original “Reflection” has more of an adult contemporary pop vibe; it definitely sounds more 90s. Aguilera sounds younger yet seems more focused no accuracy and finesse with fewer runs.  Nonetheless, listen back, and it’s incredibly impressive to hear a teenager sing with such maturity and power. The 2020 version is actually quite different from the original, without changing the fundamental, beloved Disney song. 

Aguilera’s voice is much more mature now. At 39, she’s a seasoned veteran.  Known for her powerful voice, she’s indeed powerful to the nth degree.  I enjoy the soulful ad-libs and some of the liberties and risks she takes while tweaking the melody compared to the original.  That said, does Aguilera overdo it/over sing at times? Yes. This, however, has been characteristic of the R&B-tinged pop musician throughout her career.  She has one of the most assertive voices I’ve ever heard, yet at times, sometimes she ‘digs in’ a tad too much.  Nonetheless, I enjoy some of it here. Also, aside from Xtina, I like the orchestral cues throughout – the pounding drums, soaring strings.

Final Thoughts 

Does “Reflection (2020)” supplant “Reflection (1998)?” I’d say the answer is no just because the original is so timeless.  That said, I greatly appreciate the maturity that Christina Aguilera brings to the table as an adult even as I choose to ‘Stan’ the original.  Still, I prefer this to many of Disney’s other remakes during their live action remake of animated class phase.  And give Disney props for letting this remain Christina’s song!

Harry Gregson Williams • Mulan (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) • Walt Disney • Release: 9.4.20

Photo Credit: Walt Disney