Opetaia Foa’i is a Samoan singer and songwriter who is best known as the lead singer of the band Te Vaka. His music blends traditional Pacific Island sounds with modern influences.
Lin-Manuel Miranda is an American composer, singer, and actor, famous for creating and starring in Hamilton. Both artists collaborated on the song “We Know the Way” for Disney’s Moana, showcasing their unique musical styles. Their work has earned them widespread recognition in the music world.
About the Song
We Know the Way is a rising song from Disney’s Moana. With a rhythmic blend of Polynesian elements and catchy melodies, the song celebrates experience, curiosity, and connection to heritage. It’s a perfect expression of the movie’s theme of personal evolution.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | November 19, 2016 |
| Album | Moana: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack |
| Writers | Lin-Manuel Miranda & Opetaia Foa’i. |
| Producers | Chris Montan, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mark Mancina & Opetaia Foa’i. |
We Know the Way Lyrics
VOYAGER
Tatou o tagata folau vala’auina
E le atua o le sami tele e o mai
Ia ava’e le lu’itau e lelei
Tapenapena
MALE VOYAGERS
Holoholo vaka
VOYAGERS
Aue, aue
Nuku i mua
Te manulele e tataki e
Aue, aue
Te fenua te malie
Nae ko hakilia mo kaiga e
ANCESTOR
We read the wind and the sky when the sun is high
We sail the length of the seas on the ocean breeze
At night, we name every star, we know where we are
We know who we are, who we are
VOYAGERS
Aue, aue
ANCESTOR
We set a course to find
A brand-new island everywhere we roam
VOYAGERS
Aue, aue
ANCESTOR
We keep our island in our mind
And when it’s time to find home, we know the way
VOYAGERS
Aue, aue
ANCESTOR
We are explorers reading every sign
We tell the stories of our elders in a never-ending chain
VOYAGERS
Aue, aue
Te fenua te malie
Nae ko hakilia
VOYAGERS & ANCESTOR
We know the way
English Translation of The Song We Know the Way
VOYAGER
We are voyagers summoned
By the God of this mighty ocean to come
We take up the good challenge
Get ready
MALE VOYAGERS
Canoes on the move
VOYAGERS
Oh, oh
There is land up ahead
A bird in flight to take us there
Oh, oh
This beautiful land, the place I was looking for
We will make our home here
ANCESTOR
We read the wind and the sky when the sun is high
We sail the length of the seas on thе ocean breeze
At night, we namе every star, we know where we are
We know who we are, who we are
VOYAGERS
Oh, oh
ANCESTOR
We set a course to find
A brand-new island everywhere we roam
VOYAGERS
Oh, oh
ANCESTOR
We keep our island in our mind
And when it’s time to find home, we know the way
VOYAGERS
Oh, oh
ANCESTOR
We are explorers reading every sign
We tell the stories of our elders in a never-ending chain
VOYAGERS
We will make our home here
VOYAGERS & ANCESTOR
We know the way
Similar Songs Like We Know the Way
If you enjoyed “We Know the Way,” try these other songs by Opetaia Foa’i and Lin-Manuel Miranda that share a similar musical style and spirit.
- “Logo Te Pate“: A lively, rhythmic song featuring Polynesian rhythms and vocals, celebrating dance and community spirit.
- “Know Who You Are“: This Moving song from Moana highlights Moana’s realization of her true identity and her compassion toward Te Kā.
- “My Shot“: Bold anthem from Hamilton about seizing opportunities and fighting passionately for freedom and personal dreams.
- “The Room Where It Happens“: Hamilton delivers a great portrayal of political ambition and the hunger to influence pivotal moments.
Similar Artists Like Opetaia Foa’i & Lin-Manuel Miranda
Whether it’s heartfelt ballads or grand, dramatic pieces, these artists deliver songs that connect and leave a lasting impression.
-
Mark Mancina
Genre: Film Score, World Music
Top Album: Moana: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (2016) -
Leslie Odom Jr.
Genre: Musical Theatre, Jazz
Top Album: Leslie Odom Jr. (2016) -
Vaiana (Auli’i Cravalho)
Genre: Pop, Soundtrack
Top Album: Moana: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (2016) -
Jonathan Groff
Genre: Musical Theatre, Pop
Top Album: Spring Awakening: Original Cast Recording (2006)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Role does We Know the Way Play in Moana’s Story?
The song appears during a flashback, showing Moana her ancestors’ history as voyagers, helping her understand her roots and the importance of travelling.
Why is the Use of The Native Language Important in The Song?
Including Tokelauan and Samoan makes the song more original, sharing cultural meaning and pride that sometimes English alone cannot fully express.
What is the Meaning of The Repeated Phrase We Know Who We Are?
It focuses on the importance of identity, reminding Moana and viewers that knowing one’s roots and traditions shapes who they are.
