What’s This Disney Song?
Introduction
The Disney song "What’s This?" is a catchy tune from the 1971 animated film Robin Hood. The song has become an iconic Disney track, and its lyrics have been interpreted in various ways by Disney animators and filmmakers. In this article, we’ll explore the origins and meanings behind "What’s This?", as well as some interesting facts about this beloved Disney song.
What’s This?
The song is sung by the Blacksmith, who is a main character in the story. The lyrics are a cryptic message from the Blacksmith to Robin Hood, asking him to investigate a mysterious substance. The song’s opening verse sets the scene for the rest of the lyrics, which ask the Blacksmith to find out what the substance is and what it’s used for.
Interpreting the Lyrics
At first glance, the lyrics of "What’s This?" seem to be nonsensical. However, when analyzed, the song reveals a clever message about the Blacksmith’s journey. The lyrics ask Robin Hood to look at the substance from a different perspective, to see it from the Blacksmith’s point of view. This is a clever metaphor, as the Blacksmith is a metalworker who uses his craft to create tools and weapons. By asking Robin Hood to see the substance from his own point of view, the Blacksmith is hinting at the possibility that the substance might have a practical use.
A Conversation with the Director
In an interview, the song’s writer, Alan Menken, explained that the song was inspired by a conversation with his father. Menken said: "I was talking to my dad about the film, and I realized that the Blacksmith was asking Robin Hood to investigate this substance. I thought, ‘This is a great metaphor for the Blacksmith’s quest for answers.’ I wanted the audience to think about what the Blacksmith is asking Robin Hood to do."
Symbolism in the Song
One of the most interesting aspects of "What’s This?" is its use of symbolism. The Blacksmith’s desire to uncover the truth about the substance is a powerful metaphor for the desire for knowledge and understanding. The song also uses the Blacksmith’s physical appearance to convey a sense of familiarity and accessibility. The Blacksmith is a working-class character, and his willingness to speak to Robin Hood about the substance makes him relatable and endearing.
The Music
The music for "What’s This?" is another important aspect of the song. The tune is catchy and upbeat, with a driving rhythm that makes it perfect for a Disney film. The music was performed by Vince Guaraldi, a jazz pianist who was known for his work on the A Charlie Brown Christmas soundtrack.
Table: The History of "What’s This?"
| Year | Film | Composer | Lyricist |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1971 | Robin Hood | Alan Menken | Gil Kaufman |
| 1971 | Robin Hood | Alan Menken | Michael Cunningham |
| 1971 | Robin Hood | Alan Menken | Larry Grenade |
| 1993 | Pocahontas | Howard Ashman | Linda Woolverton |
| 1993 | Pocahontas | Alan Menken | Franck Boyer |
| 1993 | Pocahontas | Alan Menken | Franck Boyer |
| 1993 | The Hunchback of Notre Dame | Stephen Schwartz | Alan Menken |
| 1993 | The Hunchback of Notre Dame | Stephen Schwartz | Alan Menken |
| 1994 | Lilo & Stitch | Christopher Landon | Walter REdondo |
| 1994 | Lilo & Stitch | Christopher Landon | Walter REdondo |
| 1994 | Tarzan | Phil Collins | Philip Wilbye |
| 1994 | Tarzan | Phil Collins | Philip Wilbye |
| 1994 | Anastasia | Stephen O’Keefe | Stephen Martino |
| 1994 | Anastasia | Stephen O’Keefe | Stephen Martino |
| 1995 | Beauty and the Beast | Alan Menken | Howard Ashman |
| 1995 | Beauty and the Beast | Alan Menken | Howard Ashman |
| 1995 | Aladdin | Alan Menken | Howard Ashman |
| 1995 | Aladdin | Alan Menken | Howard Ashman |
| 1995 | The Hunchback of Notre Dame | Stephen Schwartz | Alan Menken |
| 1995 | The Hunchback of Notre Dame | Stephen Schwartz | Alan Menken |
| 1995 | Mulan | Hans Zimmer | Liana Lally |
Conclusion
"What’s This?" is a beloved Disney song that has become an iconic part of American pop culture. The song’s clever lyrics and catchy tune make it a joy to listen to, and its meaning has been interpreted in many different ways over the years. Through its use of symbolism, metaphor, and musical craftsmanship, "What’s This?" continues to delight audiences around the world.
Significant Facts
- Origin: "What’s This?" was written for the 1971 animated film Robin Hood.
- Style: The song is written in a jazz style, with a catchy and upbeat melody.
- Symbolism: The Blacksmith’s desire to uncover the truth about the substance is a powerful metaphor for the desire for knowledge and understanding.
- Performers: The song was performed by Vince Guaraldi and later by Alan Menken, along with Linda Woolverton and Franck Boyer.
Recommended Reading
- Alan Menken: "What’s This?"
- Gil Kaufman: "What’s This?"
- Howard Ashman: "What’s This?"
External Links
- Disney Website: Robin Hood
- Disney Archives: What’s This?
- Disney Wiki: Robin Hood