Hailee Steinfeld Releases The Cars Cover for Disney's 'Hexed'
Hailee Steinfeld has released a cover of The Cars' 1984 hit 'Magic' ahead of Disney's animated film Hexed, due in theaters Nov. 25. She voices the lead character Billie Doe in a story about a girl who discovers magical powers and enters a witch realm. The new version keeps the original's 1980s feel while adding Steinfeld's brighter pop vocals.
Steinfeld’s cover arrived Friday, Oct. 23, before Hexed opens Nov. 25. In the film she voices Billie Doe, a girl whose hidden powers take her from suburban life into Hexe, a witch realm. The cast also includes Rashida Jones, Jodie Foster, Walton Goggins, Tracey Ullman and Stephen Fry.
The Cars’ original “Magic” hit No. 12 on the Hot 100 in 1984. The Boston band also reached the top 10 with “Drive,” “Shake It Up,” “You Might Think” and “Tonight She Comes.” Steinfeld has five Hot 100 entries, including “Starving” with Grey and Zedd at No. 12, and she recorded “Dangerous” for Sinners in April of the prior year.
The cover could draw families and Disney audiences toward Hexed while giving Steinfeld’s pop profile another boost. It may also introduce The Cars’ 1980s catalog to younger listeners and strengthen cross-promotion between film and music. Fans of animated musical fantasy and 1980s pop could be most affected, though the song’s broader social reach may remain modest.