Best Of Friends (from The Fox And The Hound) Sheet Music Preview

Best Of Friends (from The Fox And The Hound): Lead Sheet / Fake Book

As performed by Pearl Bailey

Item: 35-DS00399970

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Additional Details
Publisher: Hal Leonard
Page Count: 1
SKU: 35-DS00399970

More about this title

About the Artist: Pearl Bailey

Pearl Bailey was a legendary entertainer whose warmth and charisma made her a natural storyteller across stage, screen, and song. Her 1981 performance of "Best of Friends" for Disney's The Fox and the Hound showcased her gift for bringing emotional depth to material written for younger audiences, proving that children's songs need not be simplistic when performed with genuine artistry.

Why we love this

Bailey's version captures something rare in Disney duets: unsentimental affection between two characters. The lead sheet preserves the conversational warmth of her interpretation, making it an excellent model for singers learning to treat simple melodies with emotional intelligence and natural phrasing.

What to expect

Gentle and unhurried, like two friends reflecting on what their friendship means. There's an ease to the melody that invites singers to focus on communication rather than technical display, creating an intimate moment even in a full room.

Who it's for

This works for vocalists exploring character songs and for pianists seeking accessible Disney lead sheets that still reward musical maturity. It's also valuable for young singers learning how to approach a simple melody with nuance and intention.

How to get the most out of it

  • Honor the conversational quality of the lyric by keeping phrases conversational rather than sung. Think of it as speaking that happens to be musical.
  • Resist the urge to add vibrato on every note. The song's power comes from directness and clarity, especially on the repeated melodic phrases.
  • Support the bridge section with a slight dynamic lift to signal the shift in emotional territory without overdoing it.
  • Let silence matter. The spaces between phrases are as important as the notes themselves.

How to use it

Consider pairing this with other Disney character songs to show how different artists approached similar material, or use it as an encore that shifts the concert's energy toward something quieter and more introspective. It also serves as an excellent audition piece for young vocalists applying to programs focused on musical theater or character work.

Skills your students will build

  • Phrasing lyrical melody with conversational naturalness
  • Building emotional subtext in simplicity
  • Managing breath and space in short-phrase songs
  • Accompanying vocalists with sensitive, non-intrusive piano support

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