One of the best known songs in the world of Disney Theme Parks is (Yo Ho) A Pirates Life. With lyrics written by Xavier Atencio and music by George Bruns, the memorable ditty stays in the hearts and memories of DISNEYLAND's guests long after their voyage to see the wily pirates has ended.
George Bruns
Xavier Atencio with Walt Disney
While George Bruns was a musician and composer, Xavier Atencio was not. Mr. Atencio later noted that:
"I didn't even know I could write music, but somehow Walt did. He tapped my hidden talents."
He might not have thought he could write music, but the music he wrote continues to be enjoyed by millions of DISNEYLAND guests.
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me.
We pillage, we plunder, we rifle and loot.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We kidnap and ravage and don't give a hoot.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me.
We extort and pilfer, we pillage and sack.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Maraud and embezzle and even highjack.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate's life for me.
We kindle and char and enflame and ignite.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We burn up the city, we're really a fright.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We're rascals and scoundrels, we're villains and knaves.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
We're devils and black sheep, we're really bad eggs.
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Yo ho, you ho, a pirate's life for me.
We're beggars and blighters and ne'er do-well cads,
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho.
Aye, but we're loved by our mommies and dads,
Drink up me 'earties, yo ho