“Bright star, would I were steadfast as thou art.” (John Keats)

Animation: clip from Pinocchio

Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight…..

Those are the words of the age-old poem spoken by Pinocchio, wishing upon a star in the Disney classic animated movie. Following his wish, a song was sung by Jiminy Cricket (aka Cliff Edwards) that made it to the top of the music charts. It was the number one selling record in 1940. Can anyone tell me what its name was? . . . . That’s right: “When I Wish Upon a Star.” The song won an Academy Award, and was the first Disney song to win an Oscar. Written by Leigh Harline and Ned Washington, the tune was recorded on His Master’s Voice (Victor Records) and became the signature song for Disney.

Why did it become Disney’s identity? What was the m…