Jodi Benson is an American actress and singer, widely celebrated as the voice of Ariel in Disney’s The Little Mermaid.
With a career spanning decades, she has brought life to numerous animated characters and Broadway roles, earning recognition for her expressive vocal performances and stage presence.
Beyond Ariel, Benson has appeared in musicals like Smile and Crazy for You, showcasing her range in both acting and singing. Her work has garnered praise from critics and audiences alike, highlighting her ability to convey emotion through song.
With a legacy that continues to influence performers, Jodi Benson remains one of the most iconic voices in animation and musical theater.
About the Song
Part of Your World is one of the most beloved songs from Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Sung by Ariel, the film’s adventurous young mermaid, the song captures her dreams of living on land and exploring the human world.
| DETAIL | INFORMATION |
|---|---|
| Released Year | 1989 |
| Album | The Little Mermaid (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) |
| Writer | Howard Ashman (Lyricist), Alan Menken (Composer) |
| Singer | Jodi Benson |
| Producer | Alan Menken, Howard Ashman |
| Genre | Disney Musical/Animated Soundtrack |
This iconic song not only defines Ariel’s character but has become a lasting favorite, delighting Disney fans through sing-alongs, stage adaptations, and countless performances worldwide.
Part of Your World Lyrics by Jodi Benson
[Intro]
Maybe he’s right, maybe there is something the matter with me
I just don’t see how a world that makes such wonderful things could be bad
[Verse 1]
Look at this stuff, isn’t it neat?
Wouldn’t you think my collection’s complete?
Wouldn’t you think I’m the girl?
The girl who has everythin’?
Look at this trove, treasures untold
How many wonders can one cavern hold?
Looking around here, you think, “Sure, she’s got everythin'”
I’ve got gadgets and gizmos a-plenty
I’ve got whozits and whatzits galore
You want thingamabobs? I’ve got twenty!
But who cares? No big deal
I want more
[Pre-Chorus]
I wanna be where the people are
I wanna see, wanna see ’em dancin’
Walking around on those—, what do you call ’em? Oh, feet
Flippin’ your fins, you don’t get too far
Legs are required for jumpin’, dancin’
Strolling along down a—, what’s that word again? Street
[Chorus]
Up where they walk, up where they run
Up where they stay all day in the sun
Wanderin’ free
Wish I could be part of that world
[Verse 2]
What would I give if I could live out of these waters?
What would I pay to spend a day warm on the sand?
Bet’cha on land they understand
Bet they don’t reprimand their daughters
Bright young women sick of swimmin’
Ready to stand
[Pre-Chorus]
I’m ready to know what the people know
Ask ’em my questions and get some answers
What’s a fire and why does it—, what’s the word? Burn?
[Chorus]
When’s it my turn? Wouldn’t I love
Love to explore that shore up above?
Out of the sea
Wish I could be part of that world
Background and Context of Part of Your World
Part of Your World is one of the most memorable songs from Disney’s The Little Mermaid, performed by Jodi Benson as Ariel.
The song happens early in the film, when Ariel expresses her wish to live on land and experience life as a human. It shows her curiosity, hope, and determination, giving the audience a clear sense of her dreams.
The lyrics and melody combine to create an emotional moment that connects with viewers of all ages.
There is also another version of the part of your world lyrics performed by Sierra Boggess, offering a different stage interpretation of the song.
Over time, the song has become a signature Disney number, often performed in concerts, stage shows, and sing-alongs. It captures the heart of Ariel’s character and highlights her desire to follow her own path.
Similar Songs Like Part of Your World
If you enjoy the emotion and expressive vocals of Part of Your World, these Disney songs offer a similar feeling. They capture heartfelt moments and melodies that connect with listeners.
- A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes: Sung by Ilene Woods in Cinderella (1950), this song expresses hope and the power of dreams.
- Reflection: Sung by Christina Aguilera in Mulan (1998), it explores self-discovery and the desire to be understood.
- Colors of the Wind: Sung by Judy Kuhn in Pocahontas (1995), this song conveys curiosity, emotion, and respect for the world around us.
- I See the Light: Sung by Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi in Tangled (2010), it captures longing, hope, and emotional connection between characters.
Each of these songs beautifully reflects Ariel’s hope and longing in its own way. They continue to delight fans around the world through movies, concerts, and sing-alongs.
Similar Artists to Jodi Benson
If you enjoy Jodi Benson’s expressive vocals and Disney performances, you might like these artists who also bring animated characters to life through song:
- Christina Aguilera
Genre: Pop, Disney Soundtrack
Top Albums: Reflection (Mulan Soundtrack, 1998), My Kind of Christmas (2000) - Idina Menzel
Genre: Musical Theatre, Disney Soundtrack
Top Albums: Frozen Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (2013), Idina Menzel: Live in Concert (2008) - Lea Salonga
Genre: Musical Theatre, Disney Soundtrack
Top Albums: Aladdin Soundtrack featuring Lea Salonga (1992), Lea Salonga: The Broadway Album (1993) - Paige O’Hara
Genre: Musical Theatre, Disney Soundtrack
Top Albums: Beauty and the Beast Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (1991), Beauty and the Beast: Special Edition (2002) - Mandy Moore
Genre: Pop, Disney Soundtrack
Top Albums: Tangled Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (2010), Coverage (2003)
These artists share the expressive vocals and storytelling that fans love in Jodi Benson’s performances. Their music continues to bring animated characters to life, delighting audiences in movies, soundtracks, and live performances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Originally Composed Part of Your World?
Alan Menken composed the music, while Howard Ashman wrote the lyrics for the song.
Did Jodi Benson Record Part of Your World More Than Once?
Yes, she recorded multiple versions, including the original, reprise, and stage adaptations.
Was Part of Your World Nominated For Any Awards?
It was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1989.