What is the first song heard in the 1953 Disney 'Peter Pan'?

The first song heard in the 1953 Disney film Peter Pan is “The Second Star to the Right.” It plays over the opening credits and introduces the story’s central invitation: following the second star leads to Never Land.

The song’s music was written by Sammy Fain, with lyrics by Sammy Cahn. It was originally intended for another Disney project, Alice in Wonderland, before being adapted for Peter Pan. In the film, the opening number establishes a dreamy contrast between Edwardian London and the magical world Peter promises to Wendy, John, and Michael Darling.

Viewers sometimes confuse it with “You Can Fly!,” because that song accompanies the children’s famous flight to Never Land and is one of the film’s best-known musical moments. “Following the Leader” comes later, during the Lost Boys’ activities, while “A Pirate’s Life” belongs to Captain Hook’s crew. The movie premiered on February 5, 1953, and was Disney’s 14th animated feature.