Disney Hits Marks AAPI Heritage Month With Extra Magic Hour
Join AJ and Alyssa Rafael for a celebration of Islander and Asian film music on SiriusXM 133
Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a content writer, covering parenting and films. She writes for Hollywoodjunction and Momjunction. Her interest in journaling and writing made this biotechnology postgraduate to take up content as her full-time profession.
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May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and Disney Music has teamed up with SiriusXM to shine a spotlight on AAPI contributions to film soundtracks.
Disney Hits Goes Extra Magic
On May 15, Disney Hits on SiriusXM Channel 133 launched a special “Extra Magic Hour,” hosted by radio personalities AJ and Alyssa Rafael. According to the station’s Instagram caption, the hourlong set features an all-Disney playlist drawn from fan favorites such as Lilo & Stitch, Moana, Mulan, Raya and the Last Dragon and more. Fans can tune in live on channel 133 or stream on demand via the SiriusXM app.
Honoring Islander And Asian Storytelling
Disney Music Group, the umbrella for Walt Disney Records, Hollywood Records and other labels, has long championed storytelling through song. Founded in 1990, the group not only releases blockbuster film soundtracks but also curates themed playlists for holidays and heritage months. “Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month on Disney Hits!” reads the station’s post, underscoring Disney’s commitment to amplifying diverse voices.
Spotlight On Iconic Scores
Listeners can expect signature themes and songs from beloved Disney stories. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Moana numbers, Matthew Wilder’s “Reflection” from Mulan and the melodic strains of Alan Silvestri’s Lilo & Stitch score are all in the mix. Each selection highlights an AAPI creative or cultural influence—whether through composers, vocalists or onscreen representation.
Hosts With Heart
AJ and Alyssa Rafael bring playful banter and insightful commentary to the broadcast. The duo, known for their on-air chemistry, will share behind-the-scenes trivia: facts about composer Brenda Lee’s uncredited work on early Disney films, how Raya’s soundtrack was shaped by Southeast Asian instruments, and more. Their goal is to entertain and educate in equal measure.
Additional Programming This Month
Beyond the Extra Magic Hour, Disney Hits listeners have more themed content lined up. A recent Instagram post teased a weekend “Disney Chill” segment featuring music from the new Disney Lofi: Phineas and Ferb album. Next week, the channel will preview the first teaser of Zootopia 2, giving listeners a sneak peek at Simon & Garfunkel–inspired track nods.
Why It Matters
AAPI Heritage Month recognizes the history, culture and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. By curating a dedicated hour of music—rather than a generic playlist—Disney Hits underscores the power of film music as a gateway to cultural appreciation. The event also highlights Disney Music Group’s ongoing efforts to foster inclusion, from commissioning original songs to supporting emerging AAPI artists.Whether you’re a diehard Disney fan or a newcomer to these scores, the Extra Magic Hour promises a fresh listening experience that celebrates community through melody. After airing live, the special remains available on demand for repeat enjoyment. For anyone seeking a musical tribute to Islander and Asian excellence, tune in and let Disney Hits deliver an Extra Magic Hour you won’t forget.
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