Introduction
It’s a Small World (But Not the Statler Brothers’ Version)
The Statler Brothers’ 1990 rendition of “Small Small World” is a surprising entry in their discography. The original, iconic song, simply titled “It’s a Small World,” was written by the Sherman Brothers for the 1964 World’s Fair at Disneyland. Richard and Robert Sherman aimed for a cheerful anthem celebrating global unity and togetherness. The song became synonymous with the “It’s a Small World” boat ride, and its catchy melody has permeated popular culture ever since.
So, why did The Statler Brothers, known for their brand of country gospel and Americana, record their own version a quarter-century later? Unfortunately, there’s no definitive answer. The song doesn’t appear on any “greatest hits” albums, and there haven’t been interviews directly addressing this specific cover.
However, we can look at the context of The Statler Brothers’ career in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The band was still commercially successful, but the country music landscape was starting to shift towards a more pop-oriented sound. Perhaps their cover of “Small Small World” was an experiment in adapting to these changing trends, or maybe it was simply a fun way to pay homage to a beloved classic.
Regardless of the reason, The Statler Brothers’ version offers a unique take on the familiar song. Their rich harmonies and signature country instrumentation give it a warmth and sincerity that differs from the original’s playful, almost whimsical tone. Whether you know the song from Disneyland or are just discovering it through The Statler Brothers, it’s a reminder that even the most well-worn melodies can be reinterpreted in surprising ways.