While Pixar has yet to create a fully music-driven feature film, music has always been woven into the studio’s storytelling. From helping audiences understand a character’s emotions to elevating some of animation’s most memorable moments, music remains a vital piece of the Disney and Pixar experience.
Though Toy Story has never been considered a traditional musical franchise, the series has built a legacy of unforgettable songs and emotional scores across its various installments. In many ways, some of the franchise’s most powerful moments have been accompanied by music that continues to resonate with audiences decades later.
While fans have yet to hear much of what awaits in the upcoming Toy Story 5, speculation surrounding the film’s soundtrack has already been building. That conversation only intensified when mysterious billboards featuring the initials “TS” and branding reminiscent of the Toy Story franchise began appearing in cities around the globe.
Almost immediately, fans began theorizing that music superstar Taylor Swift could somehow be connected to the forthcoming film. A theory that has now proven true, as Swift has officially confirmed she will contribute a new original song, “I Knew It, I Knew You,” to Toy Story 5.
The announcement not only marks another major collaboration for the global music icon, but also serves as a reminder of Toy Story’s enduring cultural impact. More than thirty years after the original film changed animation forever, the franchise continues to attract some of entertainment’s biggest names while finding new ways to connect with audiences across generations.
Though details surrounding the song remain limited, it has been confirmed that the track draws inspiration from Jessie and the journey she has traveled throughout the franchise, as well as the new chapter that awaits her in Toy Story 5. Featuring country-inspired roots, the song already appears positioned to become a deeply emotional addition to the character’s story.
Given Jessie’s history as one of the franchise’s most beloved and emotionally resonant characters, the pairing feels especially fitting. For many fans, Jessie remains at the center of some of Toy Story’s most heartfelt moments. If “I Knew It, I Knew You” captures even a fraction of that same emotional weight, it could quickly become one of the film’s defining elements.
“I Knew It, I Knew You” arrives on music platforms beginning June 5. Fans can also pre-order one of three exclusive CD editions through Swift’s website, featuring the film version of the song alongside acoustic and piano renditions with unique vocals and production arrangements.
As Toy Story 5 continues its march toward release, the only question that remains is how this newest musical chapter will help shape Jessie’s next adventure.