Richard M. Sherman Tribute
During the 2024 D23 Ultimate Disney Fan Event, Disney Legend Richard M. Sherman was celebrated for his incredible contributions to The Walt Disney Company. Throughout the weekend, friends and family shared stories and memories, painting a touching portrait of a man whose music helped define Disney magic.
One of the highlights was the “Magic Journeys: Memories of the Sherman Brothers” panel hosted by Disney historian Tim O’Day. The session offered a deep look at the family’s musical legacy, featuring Richard’s son Greg and Robert’s son Jeff, both co-directors of the 2009 documentary The Boys.
From Tin Pan Alley to Disney Soundtracks: A Richard M. Sherman Tribute
The Sherman brothers’ musical roots ran deep. Their grandfather, Al Sherman, was a Tin Pan Alley composer who once accompanied George M. Cohan in Herald Square. Greg and Jeff recounted how their fathers—originally aspiring composer and novelist, respectively—took their father’s advice and joined forces, eventually catching Walt Disney’s eye with early hits like “Tall Paul.”
Their contrasting personalities—playfully nicknamed Tigger and Eeyore on the Disney lot—created a perfect balance in their songwriting process. Walt saw their range and storytelling potential and made them the first-ever staff songwriters for Disney.
Creating Iconic Songs That Define Generations
One particularly poignant story was shared by Jeff about the origins of “A Spoonful of Sugar.” After a disappointing meeting with Julie Andrews regarding a different song for Mary Poppins, Jeff mentioned to his father that he had received his polio vaccine—on a sugar cube. That moment sparked inspiration, leading to one of the most beloved Disney songs of all time.
The tribute also included a powerful new verse for “It’s a Small World,” written by Richard Sherman before his passing. Bob Iger introduced a touching short film featuring the verse and shared a personal memory of Richard playing it for him.
A Jolly Musical Celebration
At the musical celebration titled “Jolly Holiday: A D23 Musical Celebration of Richard M. Sherman,” host John Stamos welcomed an array of stars and Disney Legends. Highlights included:
- Ashley Brown and Michael James Scott performing “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”
- Brown’s rendition of “A Kiss Goodnight”
- A panel featuring Don Hahn, Tony Baxter, Floyd Norman, and Kevin Feige
- Darrin Criss and Stamos dueting on “I Wanna Be Like You”
- Hayley Mills and Lesley Ann Warren surprising guests with “Let’s Get Together”
- Mandy Rose Wolf, Richard’s granddaughter, singing “The Age of Not Believing”
- A crowd sing-along of “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” to close the evening
Remembering the Magic a Richard M. Sherman Tribute
The Richard M. Sherman Tribute at D23 2024 reminded us that Disney magic lives on through the music that shaped generations. From the Tiki Room to Mary Poppins, the Sherman Brothers’ songs are more than melodies—they’re memories.
Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate Disney Legends and share more from D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.
