Question
Toy Story publicity still

Who sings "You've Got a Friend in Me" in "Toy Story"?

Last updated: November 22, 2025

"Toy Story" may have totally changed animation history forever with its groundbreaking computer animation, but you can't skip the basics. Pixar still needed a killer theme song, and a voice that could sell friendship without getting too syrupy. "You've Got a Friend in Me" became the perfect anthem for Woody and Buzz's relationship. Which artist created and sang "You've Got a Friend in Me" in "Toy Story"?

Correct Answer: Randy Newman

(Source)

Randy Newman had never written music for an animated film, but Pixar specifically recruited him because they wanted his piano-driven style for their story about childhood and imagination. Newman had already mastered movie soundtracks with films like "The Natural" and "Awakenings," but "Toy Story" director John Lasseter was obsessed with Newman's ability to write songs that sounded conversational and real. 

The song earned Newman an Academy Award nomination and was so well received that he's basically become Disney/Pixar's go-to animation composer. He's scored nine films for them including "Monsters, Inc.," "A Bug's Life," "Cars," and, of course, all of the "Toy Story" sequels. Disney made him a Disney Legend in 2007, and I wouldn't be surprised if he gets a Christmas card from Woody and Bo Peep every year.

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