It’s hard to reflect of some of the most iconic Pixar/Disney films without having fond memories of their soundtrack/score. Toy Story, for instance, is a film that always brings me a fuzzy warm feeling when I see the opening credits. Not only am I reminded of the loveable characters, but the films title track “You got a friend in me” will always transport me to a simpler, happier time. And whether it be the Toy Story films, Cars, A Bug’s Life or even Meet the Parents, those films wouldn’t pack the same punch without the musical stylings of one Randy Newman.

If you’re not familiar with Randy Newman, here’s his story….He’s a musician who had minor success in the 1970’s but didn’t find his true calling till the 90’s when he partnered with Disney to make soundtracks for the films listed above. His voice and style are very whimsical making his songs simple, silly and fun. Oddly enough one of his biggest solo hits was a song that was wildly misinterpreted. The track was called “Short People”. Randy was going for irony/satire in the track but in turn offended a lot of radio stations/listeners.

Some people may choose to remember Randy for his “prejudice” of short people, or his beloved soundtrack work in Toy Story and other great films. I choose to remember Randy not as he is, but how Will Sasso depicted him on MADTV.