Notably Disney

It's another semifinalists edition of Tunes & Quotes Trivia here on Notably Disney, in which contestants vie to correctly answer questions related to music and lines from the theme parks, films, and more. Competing on this episode is another set of all-stars who have won previous editions of trivia. Joining in today are podcaster Dan Heaton of The Tomorrow Society podcast, Disney aficionado Emily VanZoest, and authors and professor Matthew Hodge. The winner of this game will compete against the winner of the last semifinalists edition in a future episode of the podcast. Listen to Dan on The Tomorrow Society Podcast and follow the podcast on Facebook, Twitter (@tomorrowsoc), and Instagram. Follow Emily VanZoest on Twitter: @EmilyRVanZoest! Learn more about Matthew Hodge through visiting his website. Purchase a copy of his excellent title (Cool Cats and a Hot Mouse: A History of Jazz and Disney) by visiting Amazon or Barnes and Noble. Feel free to follow Brett on Twitter (@bnachmanreports), subscribe to

Over the past few years on Notably Disney, many contestants have won their editions of Tunes & Quotes Trivia. Now it's time for some of these all-stars to compete in the pursuit of being named the ultimate winner! In this semifinalists game, several past winners, including Courtney Guth of the Book of the Mouse Club podcast, Derek Lewis of The Mad Chatters podcast, and Tommy T of The Dis Quiz Show podcast, participate in another set of tricky questions that host Brett Nachman crafted. The winner of this game will be placed in the final round at a future date. Listen in to Courtney's wonderful commentary on Book of the Mouse Club; follow the podcast on Twitter: @BookOfTheMouse. You can also follow Courtney on Twitter: @Courtney_Guth.  Have some fun with Derek and company by tuning in to The Mad Chatters; follow the podcast on Twitter: @MadChatters. You can also follow Derek on Twitter: @dereklew  Hear Tommy deliver some Disney trivia on The Dis Quiz Show and follow the podcast on Twitter: @thedisquiz F

Jake Monaco is an accomplished composer known for creating the tunes for many of Disney and Pixar’s most recent animated fare, including the Forky Asks a Question shorts, shorts within Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Short Circuit series, and Pixar’s acclaimed SparkShort Out. He also composed Flora and Ulysses for Disney Plus earlier this year. On this episode of Notably Disney, Jake sits down with host Brett Nachman to talk about how he ascended the ranks of scoring in Hollywood, first working alongside Christophe Beck and now responsible for composing some impressive projects on his own, including Lamp Life, a short following Bo Peep's adventures prior to Toy Story 4.  Learn more about Jake's work by visiting his website (JakeMonaco.com) or checking out his IMDb profile. Feel free to follow Brett on Twitter (@bnachmanreports), subscribe to the podcast, and send your feedback to notablydisney@gmail.com New episodes of the podcast debut on the first and third Tuesday of every month.

On this episode of Notably Disney, host Brett Nachman reviews a new, popular book: "A Portrait of Walt Disney World: 50 Years of the Most Magical Place on Earth." This is a stunning and satisfying read that features beautiful imagery of and prose about the vacation kingdom destination. This book review precedes the main feature: the fifth edition of Disney Tunes & Quotes Trivia! Competing on this edition are three returning guests of the show (author and professor Matthew Hodge, designer and artist Rob Yeo, and professor Paul Cote), as well as new guest Emily VanZoest, an education researcher. It's the battle of two teams: the Linguinis (Emily and Matt) versus the Matterhorn Yodelers (Rob and Paul)! Who will win? Listen in to find out. To check out more and follow the work of the guests: Matthew Hodge: visit his website. Purchase a copy of Cool Cats and a Hot Mouse: A History of Jazz and Disney by visiting Amazon or Barnes and Noble. Rob Yeo: follow him on Twitter (@robjyeo) and Instagram (@robjyeo). V

Book of the Mouse Club hosts Emily McDermott and Courtney Guth are back in this second part of a conversation on Disney books that should be written. In the first part, host Brett Nachman, Courtney, and Emily addressed ideas for categories including autobiography/biography, theme parks and resorts, and film and television. Meanwhile, this second part places attention on book ideas related to music, mousecellaneous (i.e., a miscellaneous category), and fictional series. The brainstorming continues in another edition of the Notably Disney Sorcerer’s Hat series! Be sure to check out the Book of the Mouse Club podcast on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to podcasts. Their email is bookofthemouseclub@gmail.com and the podcast website is https://bookofthemouseclub.libsyn.com/ Also make sure you follow Book of the Mouse Club on Twitter, as well as each of the hosts on Instagram: Courtney (@greatguthsby) and Emily (@emily_mickde). You can also follow Emily (@emily_mickde) and Courtney (@Courtney_Guth) on Twit

Countless Disney books have been published over the years, though have you ever wondered to yourself: why hasn’t a book about [insert subject here] debuted? Joining host Brett Nachman for this magical idea-thinking session are Emily McDermott and Courtney Guth, hosts of the Book of the Mouse Club podcast, two perfect people for brainstorming about books. Emily and Courtney have been on many past episodes of Notably Disney. In this first edition of a two-part episode, Brett, Emily, and Courtney discuss their selections for books that should be written related to three categories: autobiographies/biographies, theme parks and resorts, and film and television. This two-part episode also marks the return of the "Sorcerer's Hat Series" on Notably Disney, in which Brett and guests brainstorm ideas for The Walt Disney Company! Be sure to check out the Book of the Mouse Club podcast on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to podcasts. Their email is bookofthemouseclub@gmail.com and the podcast website is https://bo

From the Silly Symphonies and Alice in Wonderland to Hercules and The Princess and the Frog, jazz can be found within a plethora of Disney projects. The history of this style of music follows, in many ways, the course of Disney’s own development, often meeting at peculiar intersections. On this episode of Notably Disney, host Brett Nachman speaks with author Matthew Hodge, an associate professor at William Peace University. Matt recently published Cool Cats and a Hot Mouse: A History of Jazz and Disney. It’s an expertly-written piece of text that uncovers the artists responsible for jazz’s emergence and popularity, and how this form of music would ultimately inform a slew of Disney projects. Matt discusses the book's development and framing, fun stories found within, lessons learned, and his connection to both music and Disney. Learn more about Matt by visiting his website. And be sure to purchase a copy of Cool Cats and a Hot Mouse: A History of Jazz and Disney by visiting Amazon or Barnes and Noble. Feel

When it comes to one of the most magical lodging destinations on Disney property, perhaps nobody is more of an expert on the subject than author Donald W. Ballard. For many years Don has researched the history and legacy of the Disneyland Hotel. This fascination has led him to craft a website and multiple books on the hotel. On this episode of Notably Disney, Don talks with host Brett Nachman about his titles, including the debut of the second edition of Disneyland Hotel: The Early Years 1954-1988. He also shares a bit about his recent appearance on the Disneyland Hotel-themed episode of Behind the Attraction on Disney Plus! Learn more about Disneyland Hotel: The Early Years 1954-1988 by visiting TheOldMillPress.com. Check out more about Don and his research on the hotel via visiting the Disneyland Hotel: The Early Years page on Facebook, as well as Don's website: MagicalHotel.com.  Feel free to reach out to Brett via Twitter @bnachmanreports, subscribe to the podcast, and send your feedback at notablydisn

In National Geographic’s Secrets of the Whales, which debuted on Disney+ this past April, viewers witness the majestic mammalian families whose sense of commitment and loyalty are very akin to our own. Composing this stunning series is Raphaelle Thibaut, whose investment in her craft comes through most beautifully in complementing the amazing visuals with an oceansong score that only enhances the experience. The score ranges from heart-pounding to soothing, and everything in between, and along the way Raphaelle showcases her facility with a range of tools and instruments to accurately convey the emotion. Raphaelle joins host Brett Nachman on Notably Disney to discuss her musical background, unexpected journey to becoming a composer, unique contributions to Secrets of the Whales, and much more. Follow Raphaelle on Twitter (@Raphae) and Instagram (@raphaellethibaut). Check out the soundtrack for Secrets of the Whales on Amazon, Apple, and many other places where you can download or purchase the soundtrack. Lea

Accomplished Disney author David Bossert has chronicled the lives of famous Disney figures in his previous titles, including executive Roy E. Disney and furniture designer and architect Kem Weber. In his latest book, Claude Coats: Walt Disney’s Imagineer – The Making of Disneyland from Toad Hall to the Haunted Mansion and Beyond, Dave uncovers the story of the Disney Legend and Imagineer. Coates was best known as a gifted animator and later as a principal force behind the art direction and show design for attractions including Pirates of the Caribbean, it’s a small word, Alice in Wonderland, and Adventure thru Inner Space, among numerous others. After much development and anticipation, the book debuts this fall. Joining host Brett Nachman on this episode of Notably Disney are Dave Bossert, the book's author, as well as Disney Imagineer Alan Coats, Claude’s son, who provided the book’s preface and was a pivotal force in its development. This title is an essential purchase and read for your Disney nonfiction co

In this second half of a two-part episode that celebrates the magic and music of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, which recently turned 25 years, Hunchback aficionado and author Dr. James Mason (the Disney Connections & Collections series) joins host Brett Nachman to talk about the rest of the memorable tunes (including "Hellfire" and "A Guy Like You"), Oscar-nominated score, and its eventual stage and theme park adaptations. And did they reference the panned direct-to-video sequel? You'll have to listen to find out. Follow James on Twitter @JamesDoesDisney, and check out his website. Email James: JamesDoesDisney@outlook.com  Feel free to reach out to Brett via Twitter @bnachmanreports, subscribe to the podcast, and send your feedback at notablydisney@gmail.com New episodes of the podcast debut on the first and third Tuesday of every month.

In honor of Disney's animated masterpiece The Hunchback of Notre Dame reaching its 25th anniversary this summer, massive Hunchback fan and author Dr. James Mason (the Disney Connections & Collections series) joins host Brett Nachman to discuss the film's magic and music. In this first half of a two-part episode, James and Brett discuss how they first became connected to the film, share the social impact of songs like Out There, and even relay some amusing memories along the way.  Follow James on Twitter @JamesDoesDisney, and check out his website. Email James: JamesDoesDisney@outlook.com  Feel free to reach out to Brett via Twitter @bnachmanreports, subscribe to the podcast, and send your feedback at notablydisney@gmail.com New episodes of the podcast debut on the first and third Tuesday of every month.

Composer Harry Gregson-Williams’ decades of scores are scattered across films of all genres, from sci-fi in The Martian to animated comedy in Shrek alongside John Powell. His work within the world of Disney dates back to serving as an orchestral conductor on Muppet Treasure Island in 1996, and he has since worked on projects including The Tigger Movie, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, and very recently, Disneynature’s Penguins. His newest score for the Mouse House is perhaps the most epic and romantic: the 2020 reimagining of Mulan by Niki Caro. On this episode of Notably Disney Harry joins host Brett Nachman to discuss his storied career with Disney and unveil all of the inner workings behind scoring Mulan.  Learn more about Harry's musical career by checking out his massive and impressive filmography on IMDb.  Feel free to follow Brett on Twitter (@bnachmanreports), subscribe to the podcast, and send your feedback to notablydisney@gmail.

For three-quarters of a century, ABC News has delivered up-to-date information on world events via radio, television, and digital platforms. In author John Baxter's new book, the news division of the "alphabet network" is the cover story. ABC News: 75 Years in the Making showcases the evolution of the brand, the talent, and the stories that unfolded along the way. John joins host Brett Nachman on Notably Disney to discuss writing this new title, in which he scoured ABC News' archives and talked with legendary journalists like Diane Sawyer and David Muir. Along the way he shares significant moments in ABC News' history, how he curated amazing photographs, and the joys of having a conversation with Sam Donaldson. You can check out ABC News: 75 Years in the Making (newly released from Hyperion Avenue, a division of Disney Publishing) on Amazon. Feel free to follow Brett on Twitter (@bnachmanreports), subscribe to the podcast, and send your feedback to notablydisney@gmail.com New episodes of the podcast debut

25 years ago, Disney engaged in one of its earliest reimaginings of a classic animated film into live-action with the massive hit 101 Dalmatians, starring Glenn Close, Jeff Daniels, and Joely Richardson. The film’s lush score, composed by the legendary and late Michael Kamen, is perhaps an overlooked gem that features some memorable themes and rich orchestration. On this episode of Notably Disney, host Brett Nachman reunites some of 101 Dalmatians’ musical players in reflecting back on the creative process behind this magnificent score, as well as their musical journeys and collaborations with Kamen. Joining in are orchestrator Robert Elhai, orchestrator Brad Warnaar, music editor Christopher Brooks, and music recordist and mixer Stephen McLaughlin. Among these talented musicians' many other works include the following: Robert (orchestrating The Lion King on Broadway and the film The Sixth Sense); Brad (orchestrating Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and Crazy Rich Asians); Chris (serving as a music editor for T

Composer Kevin Kiner is responsible for translating the epic feel of Star Wars music to popular television series, including Star Wars: The Clone Wars, for which he recently won an Annie Award for, as well as Star Wars Rebels. Now we’re about to see a new phase of Kevin’s work with the release of Star Wars: The Bad Batch on Disney Plus, for which he is handling the score. Kevin talks with host Brett Nachman about his musical inspirations and work for Lucasfilm. He also references some of his many other projects, including Doom Patrol and Titans for HBO Max and Narcos: Mexico for Netflix. Listen to Kevin's work by visiting his website: KevinKiner.com! Feel free to follow Brett on Twitter (@bnachmanreports), subscribe to the podcast, and send your feedback to notablydisney@gmail.com New episodes of the podcast debut on the first and third Tuesday of every month.

Illustrator Rob Yeo is a gifted designer and artist whose work for a variety of brands, including Holiday Inn and Mall of America, has led to these creations being spotlighted at an international level. His Disney-inspired work, however, may be of most interest to listeners of Notably Disney. Rob's book cover designs have been featured on many titles for Theme Park Press, including releases by past Notably Disney guests like Aaron Wallace and Christopher E. Smith. Rob Yeo Design showcases much of this cool and reverent artwork, many paying homage to extinct attractions and logos. And you can even purchase pieces for your own collection, sporting Rob’s artwork on T-shirts, phone cases, or pins. Host Brett Nachman speaks with Rob about his artistic roots, career, Disney interests, and various ventures.  You can follow Rob on social media via platforms like Twitter (@robjyeo) and Instagram (@robjyeo). And be sure to visit Rob Yeo Design to marvel at his artwork, some of which is featured on merchandise like pin

Eight years ago marked the launch of a new era for Disney’s most enduring character with the release of the ever-popular Mickey Mouse series of shorts, and more recently, the debut of Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Composer Christopher Willis is the Emmy-nominated musician behind the shorts and now the attraction, and along with his wife, vocalist Elyse Willis, the pair co-wrote the "Nothing Can Stop Us Now" from the popular ride. Chris' work also extends to composing Veep and The Lion Guard, whereas Elyse has lent her voice to tunes in films like La La Land and Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Chris and Elyse talk with host Brett Nachman about their musical roots, collaborations, and bringing the world of Mickey Mouse to life with these scores and tunes. Additionally, Elyse shares her experiences as a vocalist for the WandaVision themes, including the zippy 60s ditty and the colorful 70s anthem.  Follow Chris (@MrChrisWillis) and Elyse (@ElyseMWillis) on Twitter. And be sure

On the previous episode of Notably Disney, author and podcaster Aaron Wallace joined Brett Nachman to discuss their initial set of picks of musicians who should be named as Disney Legends. This second part continues the dialogue as Aaron and Brett recognize talented performers, composers, singers, and songwriters who they believe should be inducted into the elite club of Disney Legends. Get in contact with Aaron Wallace by following him on Twitter (@aaronwallace), Instagram (@aaronhwallace), and on his website www.aaronwallaceonline.com, where you can learn more about his podcast On Main Street and purchase his books. Feel free to follow Brett on Twitter (@bnachmanreports), subscribe to the podcast, and send your feedback to notablydisney@gmail.com New episodes of the podcast typically debut on the first and third Tuesday of every month.

Over nearly 35 years, Disney Legends have been awarded to individuals who have made an indelible impact on The Walt Disney Company. Some have served as Imagineers, executives, actors, animators, or other roles. Considering this podcast concentrates much of the content on music, it only seemed fitting to put on our imaginary Sorcerers Hats and imagine if we could call the shots on who associated with The Walt Disney Company (who has lent their talents in music-based ways) should be awarded as Disney Legends in the future. Up for the task is many-time returning guest Aaron Wallace, an author, podcaster, and today, part of an armchair Disney Legend nominations committee. Aaron joins Brett Nachman as they select their picks in this first episode of a two-part series on musicians who should be named as Disney Legends. Get in contact with Aaron Wallace by following him on Twitter (@aaronwallace), Instagram (@aaronhwallace), and on his website www.aaronwallaceonline.com, where you can learn more about his podcast O