You’ve got a friend in me
You’ve got a friend in me
When the road looks rough ahead
And you’re miles and miles from your nice warm bed
You just remember what your old pal said
Boy, you’ve got a friend in me
Yeah, you’ve got a friend in me
You’ve got a friend in me
You’ve got a friend in me
You got troubles, I’ve got ’em too
There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for you
We stick together and see it through
‘Cause you’ve got a friend in me
You’ve got a friend in me
Some other folks might be
A little bit smarter than I am
Bigger and stronger too, maybe
But none of them will ever love you
The way I do, it’s me and you, boy
And as the years go by
Our friendship will never die
You’re gonna see it’s our destiny
You’ve got a friend in me
You’ve got a friend in me
You’ve got a friend in me
Behind the Music: Meaning & Story
Written and performed by Randy Newman, “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” has become the primary musical identity of the Toy Story franchise. Originally written for the 1995 Pixar masterpiece, the song serves as a musical manifestation of the bond between Andy and his favorite toy, Woody. Its Americana-inspired, ragtime-piano style provided the perfect warmth for the world’s first feature-length computer-animated film.
The lyrics emphasize loyalty and the enduring nature of friendship, even when faced with rivals who might be “bigger and stronger” (a subtle nod to the arrival of Buzz Lightyear). Unlike many Disney “I Want” songs, this is an “I Am” song—it establishes the character’s core value of steadfast devotion. It was nominated for both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for Best Original Song.
Over the years, the song has evolved within the franchise, being performed as a duet between Randy Newman and Lyle Lovett, and even receiving a Spanish “Gypsy Jazz” makeover in Toy Story 3. It remains a timeless anthem for companionship across generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who wrote the Toy Story theme song?
The song was written and composed by Randy Newman, who went on to score all four Toy Story films.
Did the song win an Oscar?
While it was nominated in 1996, it lost to “Colors of the Wind” from Pocahontas. However, Randy Newman later won Oscars for Monsters, Inc. and Toy Story 3.
When did Toy Story release in the UK?
Following its late 1995 US debut, Toy Story officially premiered in United Kingdom cinemas on March 22, 1996.
