Used during Shrek and Donkey’s journey to the castle, mirroring Shrek's transition "from misery to happiness".
Over twenty years later, the Shrek soundtrack remains a cultural touchstone. Here is why the music of the first film was—and still is—a stroke of absolute genius. 1. The Power of the "Placeholder" Shrek 1 Music
Plays during the Duloc tournament, instantly establishing Fiona as more than just a damsel in distress. Used during Shrek and Donkey’s journey to the
While John Cale’s version appears in the film during Shrek and Fiona’s fallout, Rufus Wainwright’s cover was used for the official soundtrack album due to licensing quirks. 3. The Orchestral Heartbeat Soundtracks - Shrek (2001) - IMDb Shrek 1 Music
The film is a masterclass in using licensed music to tell a story (a technique often called a "needle drop"):
Why the Shrek Soundtrack is Still the Ultimate "Needle Drop" Masterclass