Modernized Country Bear Musical Jamboree loses dated songs. Here are new ones you'll know

The bears are back.

A reimagined Country Bear Musical Jamboree is reopening July 17 at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom. This iconic show is one of the last attractions Walt Disney personally helped develop.

Jake Ellis, principal audio media designer for Walt Disney Imagineering, said the pressure was felt to honor and protect the legacy of the beloved bears.

“Absolutely, this show has such a history,” Ellis said. “All the greats of our industry worked on the original version of the show. All of us came to the show with a deep appreciation. We gleaned some of those little Easter eggs and put them back in the show as an acknowledgement to those who worked on it.”

What’s different about the new Country Bear Musical Jamboree?

All new songs, script and costumes.

The roughly 16-minute attraction features updated music, including some recognizable tunes. There are songs from “Aladdin,” “Toy Story” and more. “Remember Me” from “Coco” is included, which some speculated was a nod to the past.

Guests will recognize many of the 18 audio-animatronic characters, but the bears’ attire did get a style refresh with new costumes. The lobby of the theater also got some updated décor, including pictures and props from the past.

Why did Country Bear Musical Jamboree close?

After 52 years, it was time for this Walt Disney World original attraction to appeal to a new generation, according to Ellis.  

It closed in late January to prepare for the refresh.

“We wanted to take this opportunity to bring a new flavor and new flair to the bears that maybe reached a little different audience, a younger audience who are more familiar with these songs,” Ellis said. “That was the main goal and I think fans of all ages are really going to enjoy it.”

Some speculated the redo was to omit lyrics that might not be considered politically correct today.

One of the older songs was titled “Mama, Don’t Whip Little Buford.” Lyrics from the song included, “Mama, don’t whup little Buford. Mama, don’t pound on his head. Mama, don’t whup little Buford. I think you should shoot him instead.”

Another line sung in the old show was “All the guys that turn me on turn me down.”

What songs are in the new Country Bear Musical Jamboree?

• Country Bear Musical Jamboree
• Try Everything
• Kiss the Girl
• A Whole New World
• Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious
• Fixer Upper
• Remember Me
• You’ve Got a Friend in Me
• The Bare Necessities
• Come Again

Spitzer is a Trending Reporter. She can be reached at [email protected]