Disney composer Richard M. Sherman has passed away at the age of 95.
Richard passed away at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills on Saturday, May 25, “due to an age-related illness,” The Walt Disney Company announced on its website.
The Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger said in a statement, “Richard Sherman was the epitome of what it means to be a Disney Legend, creating with his brother Robert the beloved classics that have become a cherished part of the soundtrack to our lives. From films like Mary Poppins and The Jungle Book to attractions like “It’s a Small World,” the Sherman brothers’ music has captured the hearts of generations of moviegoers. We are eternally grateful for the impact Richard has had on the world and offer our deepest condolences to his family.”
According to Variety, the brothers were Disney’s resident songwriters, a position that no longer exists. In 1958, they wrote a single called “Tall Paul” for Annette Funicello, a little mouse from the original Mickey Mouse Club.
Thanks to “Chim Cim Cher-ee,” the Sherman brothers won two Oscars for best original song and best musical score.