The Disney Song Encyclopedia - fieldi

“I DIDN’T KNOW I COULD FEEL THIS WAY” 85
Even in the most action-packed live-action Disney adventure movie, there is often time for a
song and dance, as with Swiss Family Robinson (1960). The film was filled with Disney mainstays,
such as James MacArthur (far left), Tommy Kirk, Janet Munro, and Dorothy McGuire (seated
at the organ). Although it was the only major Disney role for John Mills (far right), his daughter
Hayley Mills appeared in many studio movies in the years following. (Walt Disney/Photofest)
the rough-mannered sailor Popeye (Robin Williams) comes to the conclusion
that he is what he is and cannot change his ways, so he resolves to leave
town with the baby. Like the character, the song is gruff and feisty.
“I Asked My Love a Favor” is the quaint folk song written by Paul J.
Smith (music) and Lawrence Edgar Watkin (lyric) for the movie The Light
in the Forest (1958). Kidnapped and raised by Native Americans, True Son
(James MacArthur) is returned to civilization, and as the adult Johnny Butler,
he tries to fit into the ways of white society. At his first dance, Johnny
hears the musicians play and sing this amusing list song in which a beau asks
his girl for various favors, such as a dance and a kiss, before offering her a
wedding ring. The music accurately pastiches an early American folk tune
and the lyric is humorous in a quaint way.
“I Didn’t Know I Could Feel This Way” is the pop love song Melissa
Manchester and Norman Gimbel wrote for the animated video sequel