On October 9th, as part of the release of the new Disney+ film Clouds, Interscope Records released the title song from the film soundtrack. The film’s stars, Fin Argus and Sabrina Carpenter, perform this latest version of “Clouds.” The original version, which hit #1 on iTunes when it released in 2013, was written and performed by the real-life inspirations for the film, Zach Sobiech and Sammy Brown. 

Sobiech was a teen musician and member of the band A Firm Handshake. At the age of fourteen, he was diagnosed with a form of bone cancer (Osteosarcoma) and began writing music while undergoing treatment. He recorded “Clouds” with Brown (also a member of A Firm Handshake) and it became a viral hit on YouTube after its release in late 2012. Sobiech passed away in 2013, at the age of eighteen.

Both versions of the song are extremely similar, as one would expect. The only main difference is that the film’s version is more pop sounding in terms of instrumentals and vocals. Argus’ has a higher singing voice than Sobiech but does a nice job of honoring the integrity of the lyrics and original song in general. 

Carpenter also does a nice job with the backup vocals. Since she is a singer/songwriter in her own right, I had initially assumed she would have a bigger role in the song. However, after listening to the original version and understanding its origins, it makes perfect sense and she honors Brown’s original role in the song well. Carpenter’s vocals mix well with Argus’; very smooth and soft compared to the upbeat style of the instrumentals. 

Although there is an underlying feeling of sadness to this song, the idea of escaping into the clouds and holding onto the idea that there is something better out there for us all is a comforting and hopeful element. Some lyrics to look out for include, “Go up in the clouds because the view’s a little nicer,” “And maybe someday, we’ll take a little ride, we’ll go up up up and everything will be just fine” and “if only I had a little bit more time, with you.”

Both the film and full soundtrack released on October 16th. The film is available on Disney+. The soundtrack including the “Clouds” single is available everywhere now! Buy and stream wherever you get your music!