Who wrote “Believe,” the iconic song from the Polar Express movie? This question has intrigued fans and music enthusiasts alike since the film’s release in 2004. The song, performed by Josh Groban, has become a beloved Christmas classic, but the story behind its creation is just as fascinating.
The Polar Express, directed by Robert Zemeckis, is a family-friendly film based on the popular children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. The movie tells the story of a young boy who embarks on a magical train ride to the North Pole. “Believe” serves as the film’s theme song, capturing the essence of the journey and the magic of Christmas.
Believe was written by Glen Ballard and Alan Silvestri, two of the most talented composers in the industry. Glen Ballard is known for his work on the soundtrack of another popular Christmas movie, “The Holiday,” while Alan Silvestri has composed music for numerous hit films, including “Back to the Future” and “Forrest Gump.” Their collaboration on “Believe” resulted in a beautiful, uplifting melody that has resonated with audiences worldwide.
The songwriting process for “Believe” began with Glen Ballard, who had previously worked with Josh Groban on his 2002 album “Closer.” Ballard had been searching for a project that would showcase Groban’s vocal talents and the perfect opportunity came with the Polar Express. He decided to write a song that would embody the spirit of the movie and the magic of the holiday season.
Alan Silvestri, who was already involved in the Polar Express project as the film’s composer, was approached by Ballard to collaborate on the song. Together, they crafted a melody that would become the film’s centerpiece. Ballard’s lyrics, which include the powerful line “This is the most wonderful time of the year,” perfectly capture the joy and wonder of Christmas.
Once the song was completed, Josh Groban was chosen to perform it. His rendition of “Believe” has become one of his most memorable performances, and the song has since been covered by numerous artists. The success of “Believe” is a testament to the creative partnership between Glen Ballard, Alan Silvestri, and Josh Groban, as well as the enduring magic of the Polar Express.
In conclusion, the song “Believe” from the Polar Express was written by Glen Ballard and Alan Silvestri, with Glen Ballard handling the lyrics. The song has left an indelible mark on the Christmas music landscape and continues to inspire and bring joy to audiences around the world.
