Moana - Shiny

The song 'Shiny' from Disney's animated film 'Moana' is performed by the character Tamatoa, a giant, treasure-encrusted crab. The song is a flamboyant and self-absorbed anthem that reflects Tamatoa's obsession with material wealth and physical appearance. The lyrics contrast the deeper messages often found in Disney films, which usually emphasize inner beauty and personal growth over superficiality.

In the song, Tamatoa mocks the advice that Moana's grandmother gave about listening to one's heart and being true to oneself. Instead, he boasts about his own appearance and the importance of being 'shiny,' equating it to being happy and successful. The song serves as a satirical take on vanity and the pursuit of external validation. Tamatoa's character is a caricature of those who prioritize appearance and material possessions above all else, and the song is a playful critique of that mindset.

The lyrics also touch on themes of predation and survival, with Tamatoa viewing other creatures as nothing more than food or competition. His interactions with Maui, the demigod, highlight a sense of rivalry and the crab's desire to prove his superiority. The song's catchy, upbeat tune contrasts with its darker undertones about the dangers of narcissism and the emptiness of a life focused solely on being 'shiny.'