A beloved Disney classic is receiving a heartfelt update. Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort will debut new lyrics for the iconic “it’s a small world” finale scene starting July 17th. This magical lyrical addition comes as a final, poignant gift from the legendary songwriter Richard Sherman before his passing.
A Poignant Final Gift
The original timeless anthem was crafted by the immensely talented Richard and Robert Sherman. Richard Sherman, known for countless Disney melodies, recently penned this entirely new verse as his last contribution to the Disney parks, specifically for this debut. He even shared these lyrics with Disney CEO Bob Iger in the summer of 2023, a moment captured in the short film “The Last Verse,” released in November 2024. Richard’s son, Gregg Sherman, explained that this update is designed to enhance the attraction’s enduring legacy and powerfully reinforce the song’s fundamental message of unity across the globe.
The New Verse Revealed
The new lyrics, which will now conclude the grand finale scene, perfectly capture the spirit of togetherness that the attraction has always championed as you can see below:
“Mother earth unites us in heart and mind And the love we give makes us humankind Through our vast wondrous land When we stand hand in hand It’s a small world after all.”
An Enduring Message for a New Era
Since its conception for the 1964 New York World’s Fair, “it’s a small world” has symbolized hope and global unity. Walt Disney personally commissioned the Sherman Brothers to create an unforgettable, repeatable theme song for the attraction. The result became one of Disney’s most recognized tunes, beautifully complementing the vibrant visual style of Disney Legend Mary Blair. The attraction’s message remains as relevant and powerful today as it was decades ago, continuing its legacy of fostering connection.
Hear the New Harmony
Fans eager to experience the new verse can listen to it as a digital single, available on major streaming platforms starting July 17, 2025. For collectors, a special “It’s a Small World” 70th Anniversary vinyl record featuring the new finale is available for pre-order, with physical sales beginning July 18, 2025.
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