In Which Jenn Self-Soothes With WDW Background Music

I mentioned a few weeks ago that I’ve been in the throes of particularly strong WDW homesickness of late. I said it then and I’ll say it now: one of the best ways to cope with this terrible, terrible feeling is in the plundering of YouTube for area background music, perfect for comforting you as you cry your way through a non-Disney work day. I know a lot of people turn to radio stations and such, but I like YouTube for its ability to find me the exact music I need, plus sometimes there are some lovely accompanying videos.

Of course I have all the usual favorites: Magic Kingdom’s Main Street U.S.A. background music (hereinafter referred to as BGM), BGM from MK’s various lands (shoutout to Tomorrowland for its futuristic covers), the Epcot entrance music, the music from Wishes and IllumiNations and Fantasmic. But I’ve also been enjoying some slightly more off-the-beaten-path selections. Have you tried…

… Epcot’s Innoventions area BGM? You might not be able to place it offhand, but I guarantee with one listen you’ll be all, “Oh, yeeeeeah.” Indeed, this music is some of the most evocative of being in WDW for me.

… The Studio’s Animation Courtyard BGM? I wasn’t expecting much of this one. Because I am an idiot. While movie soundtracks aren’t quite as parks-exclusive as some other BGM, they are stirring as all hell. A Bug’s Life doesn’t even come close to numbering among my favorite Pixar offerings but the overture totally gets me. Also, who doesn’t need more of Jerry Goldsmith’s Mulan score in their life?

… Animal Kingdom’s Expedition Everest BGM? If you’ve got a taste for the exotic, this one’s for you. Fascinating Himalayan vocalizations and music characterize this atmospheric score. Should you love Expedition Everest as much as I do – which is really hard but maybe you’re up to the task – you’ve got to give it a go.

… The BRAND NEWEST version of the Magic Kingdom’s Main Street BGM? Most videos offer an older version, which is fine, but this one is current as of 2015 and includes such perfect fits as “Ellie’s Waltz” from Up. Plus it’s got nifty time-lapse visuals to go with it!

Let’s all pretend we’re not, repeat, not at work. Do you listen to Disney BGM? What are your favorites? I’m always eager to try more obscure park soundtracks! Also, does anyone have a link to the International Gateway BGM? I can’t find it anymore.

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