Songwriter Richard Sherman, one half of the famed Sherman Brothers songwriting duo, passed away at the age of 95. They were responsible for many beloved Disney classics like “Mary Poppins” and “The Jungle Book”. Moreover, Sherman’s legacy will continue to bring joy and imagination to audiences of all ages for years to come.
The veteran songwriter Richard Sherman, one half of the famous Sherman Brothers duo who created some of Disney’s most beloved songs, died at 95. Alongside his late brother Robert, Richard wrote music that delighted millions of people around the world.
Creating Disney Magic
The Sherman Brothers are best known for their work on Disney classics like “Mary Poppins,” “The Jungle Book,” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang“. They won two Academy Awards for “Mary Poppins” in 1964, including Best Song for “Chim Chim Cher-ee“. They also earned a Grammy for Best Movie or TV Score. Over their decade-long partnership with Disney, they wrote over 150 songs, including the unforgettable “It’s a Small World (After All).”
A Timeless Legacy
The Walt Disney Company honored Sherman, saying, “Generations of moviegoers and theme park guests have been introduced to the world of Disney through the Sherman brothers’ magnificent and timeless songs.” Their music was known for being catchy and enjoyable for both children and adults, a skill they perfected under Walt Disney’s guidance.
A Lifelong Musical Journey
Richard and Robert Sherman started their Disney journey in the 1960s after writing popular songs like “Tall Paul” and “You’re Sixteen.” Their talent extended beyond movies to Broadway, where they created musicals such as “Over Here!” and stage versions of “Mary Poppins” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.”
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Their father, composer Al Sherman, inspired their love for songwriting. The brothers often played with words and came up with fun terms like “fantasmagorical” and “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” They enjoyed challenging each other to make their songs better and more memorable.
Remembering Richard M. Sherman
Richard Sherman leaves behind his wife Elizabeth, two children Gregory and Victoria, and a daughter Lynda from a previous marriage. A private funeral will be held on Friday, and Disney will announce a public celebration of his life later.
Even though the brothers had their differences, they avoided rivalry and looked back on their partnership with humor and wisdom. Richard M. Sherman’s passing marks the end of an era, but his music will continue to bring joy and imagination to people for generations to come.