Join us as we celebrate the life and legacy of the late Richard M. Sherman, whose music, created with his brother Bob, defined Disney magic and transcended generations. From timeless Disney classics to global anthems like “it’s a small world,” the Shermans’ work has left an indelible mark on entertainment.
In this special episode, I share my personal experiences with Richard, including our first conversation in 2008 and cherished moments during our 2012 WDW Radio group cruise on the Disney Dream. Hear the original interview from WDW Radio Show #80 and honor a composer whose melodies and lyrics have woven joy, nostalgia, and inspiration into countless lives… including ours.
As we bid farewell to Richard M. Sherman, we celebrate a life that brought joy, wonder, and a sense of magic to so many. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift, echoing in the hearts of every Disney fan forever. Thank you, Richard, for the music, memories, and friendship. You will be missed, but never forgotten.
From Lou…
On May 25, we said goodbye, and thank you to Richard M. Sherman, a man who, along with his brother Bob, created some of the most iconic and enduring music in the history of entertainment. Their work has not only defined eras of Disney magic but has also transcended generations and cultural boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on music and film.
Their songs, specifically with Disney, are not merely popular tunes… they encapsulate the spirit and wonder and magic that we know and love when it comes to Disney, appealing to both children and adults alike. But their music also had greater global impact and influence beyond Disney, with songs like “it’s a small world” still promoting a message of global unity and peace, while other songs having been covered and performed by countless artists, reflecting its universal appeal and timeless quality.
The enduring popularity of the Sherman brothers’ work speaks to its legacy, and cultural lexicon, ingrained in the memories of millions. Their work has been passed down through generations, from parents to their children (speaking for myself as well), becoming a staple of childhood experiences and nostalgic memories for adults.
But what I loved most about the music was how the themes in Richard and Bob’s songs often revolve around optimism, adventure, positivity, understanding, and the magic of imagination. It’s why they continue to resonate so deeply with audiences, offering comfort, inspiration, and inspiring a sense of wonder and joy.
Decades after their initial release, Sherman’s songs have enduring popularity, continuing to be featured in modern Disney theme park attractions, movies, and television shows, ensuring that new generations experience the magic of the brother’s music.
The fact that these songs remain relevant and cherished today underscores their timeless quality. Richard M. Sherman’s work transcends so much because it taps into universal emotions and themes, creating a connection that goes beyond age, culture, and time. His melodies and lyrics are not just songs; they are an integral part of the tapestry of countless lives, weaving joy, nostalgia, and inspiration across the world.
Back in 2008, about 3 years after I started podcasting, I took a chance, and, after some online and old school detective work, found contact information for a man whose work I had not only grown up with, but continued to enjoy, and was starting to share with my own children.
I still remember calling Mr. Sherman at home, and his wife answering the phone. After nervously stumbling over my words to explain who I was and why I was calling, his wonderful wife put me at ease… and we chatted for about half an hour. When I spoke with Richard for the first time, I still remember how warm and friendly he was. I also remember his genuine humility, as he asked me if I was sure if anyone would be interested in hearing him share stories about working with Walt, and creating the tunes which remain wonderfully stuck in our heads.
We arranged a time to speak again, and from that conversation, I am honored to be able to share this interview, which originally aired back on WDW Radio show # 80.
Never did I think we would become friends, and the remarkable experience and private concert we all shared on our group cruise on the Disney Dream in 2012. The private moments he shared with my children are some of the fondest in my life. I still remember him and his wife asking if he could take my children to the evening show in the Walt Disney Theater. Of course, I said yes, and as I started to put down my napkin to accompany them, he put his hand on my shoulder, and told me to enjoy my dinner, and that he and his wife would take great care of my kids. I then watched as they took my children by their little hands, and walked out of Animator’s Palate towards the theater. There was something so… grandparent-like about that moment, and it still brings a joyful tear to my eye.
It was on that same cruise that we were celebrating my daughter’s birthday. I invited some friends to our stateroom for cupcakes, and when Richard and his wife walked in, it was like those same grandparents came in to a family birthday party.
I shared on my Instagram on May 26 some photos, including one from that day, as Richard kneeled down next to my daughter, who was sharing stories from her little pink autograph book. When Richard lead the room singing her Happy Birthday, I understandably lost it. I remember hugging my daughter right after, whispering in her ear to be sure to remember this moment forever… especially when she became a teenager.
Richard joined me on our WDW Radio LIVE video broadcast from the ship that night, and again on WDW Radio show # 135, as we sat down to chat about a new CD featuring a unique compilation of classic songs, performed by the greatest guitarists in the world called Poppin’ Guitars: A Tuneful of Sherman.
Over the years, I had occasion to chat with Richard and his wife, sometimes just receiving a random call out of the blue from him, just asking me how I was doing, about my kids, or the show. I remember calling his house once, assuming they had long forgotten about me, and as I started my lengthly, “you may not remember me, but we did a…” only to be politely cut off with, “Of course I know you, Lou… how are your kids?” I still shake my head in happy disbelief.
I last spoke to Richard and his wife late last year, and still remember commenting to myself how his voice always seemed to radiate such joy.
I would see photos or videos of Richard at events even after that call, and no matter his age, he still had that unassuming, grandfatherly quality, and captivating smile on his face.
Forgive me or thank you for indulging me here, but I wanted to not only express my feelings and share some stories, but give Richard his due.
As we bid farewell to this legendary composer and amazing, kind, gentle, and unassuming human being, we celebrate a life that brought joy, wonder, and a sense of magic to countless lives. His legacy, woven into the very fabric of Disney’s timeless storytelling, will continue to inspire and uplift, and will last forever.
In the heart of every Disney fan, the melodies of Richard and his brother will forever echo.
Thank you, my friend, for the music, memories, inspiration, and friendship. You will be missed, but never forgotten. I promise to continue to “feed the birds” in your honor. 🕊️💙
Timestamped Overview
- 00:00 Introduction
- 06:05 Nervous call, friendly chat, honored to share.
- 16:46 Sherman brothers – Disney music and film legacy.
- 20:08 Bob and I wrote hit songs for Annette.
- 26:53 Bob and I turned book chapters into story.
- 31:47 Writing for diverse assignments was exciting and challenging.
- 34:30 Walt Disney inspired optimistic song with meaning.
- 42:15 You and your brother made a masterpiece.
- 47:31 Father’s lesson: Fly your own kite.
- 51:23 Cubby Broccoli acquires Ian Fleming’s magical car.
- 57:22 First theme park song; magical, tropical experience.
- 01:02:27 Songwriting experience for Maurice Chevalier’s movie scene.
- 01:08:55 Adaptable approach to singing as storytelling.
- 01:14:29 Wrote music for many iconic films and books.
- 01:18:32 Grateful for music that shaped me profoundly.
- 01:25:25 Chimney sweep finds luck in unexpected places.
- 01:30:47 “Tomorrow holds dreams becoming reality for all.”
What is your favorite Sherman Brothers song? Why?
Share your thoughts in the WDW Radio Clubhouse at WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse, or call the voicemail at 407-900-9391 (WDW1) and share your story on the show.
Episode Transcript
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