Dick Van Dyke’s cheerful performance of “Chim Chim Cheree” brings instant smiles as listeners remember the magical world of Mary Poppins. Fans have cherished this beloved song since it debuted in the 1964 Disney film.
Written by brothers Richard and Robert Sherman, “chim chim cheree” won an academy award for best original song. Sung by Dick Van Dyke as the cheerful chimney sweep bert, the song tells about the life and luck of those who clean chimneys in old london.
This blog will look at the complete lyrics of “Chim Chim Cheree,” explain what they mean, and show why this song has stayed popular for so many years.
Readers will learn about the hidden messages in the words and see how this simple tune became such an important part of movie music history.
About the Song “Chim Chim Cher-ee”
“Chim Chim Cher-ee” is a whimsical and enchanting song from Disney’s 1964 musical film Mary Poppins. Written by the legendary Sherman Brothers, it won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
The song blends a catchy, music-hall-style melody with clever lyrics, creating a mix of fantasy and working-class pride. Its memorable refrain and cheerful tone make it one of the film’s most iconic numbers.
The wordplay on “luck” and “chimneys” adds to its magical appeal. Decades later, “Chim Chim Cher-ee” remains a beloved classic, evoking nostalgia and a childlike sense of wonder.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Film/Album | Mary Poppins Original Soundtrack |
| Release Year | 1964 |
| Performers | Dick Van Dyke (Bert), Julie Andrews (Mary Poppins) |
| Writers/Authors | Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman (Sherman Brothers) |
| Length | Approximately 2 minutes 46 seconds |
| Genre | Movie/TV, Children’s, Soundtrack, Musical |
| Producer | Walt Disney Pictures |
| Awards | Academy Award for Best Original Song (1965) |
| Theme | Good luck, chimney sweeps’ pride, magic of London rooftops |
Chim Chim Cheree Lyrics
Chorus
Chim chiminey, chim chiminey, chim chim cher-ee
A sweep is as lucky as lucky can be
Chim chiminey, chim chiminey, chim chim cher-oo
Good luck will rub off when I shakes ‘ands with you
Verse 1
Or blow me a kiss, and that’s lucky too
Now as the ladder of life has been strung
You may think a sweep’s on the bottommost rung
Though I spends me time in the ashes and smoke
In this ‘ole wide world there’s no ‘appier bloke
Chorus
Chim chiminey, chim chiminey, chim chim cher-ee
A sweep is as lucky as lucky can be
Chim chiminey, chim chiminey, chim chim cher-oo
Good luck will rub off when I shakes ‘ands with you
Verse 2
I choose me bristles with pride, yes, I do
A broom for the shaft and a brush for the flue
Up where the smoke is all billered and curled
‘Tween pavement and stars is the chimney sweep world
Verse 3
When there’s ‘ardly no day, nor ‘ardly no night
There’s things ‘alf in shadow, and ‘alf way in light
On the rooftops of London, cool, what a sight
Chorus
Chim chiminey, chim chiminey, chim chim cher-ee
When you’re with a sweep, you’re in glad company
Nowhere is there a more ‘appier crew
Than them wot sings, chim chim cher-ee, chim cher-oo
Outro
Chim chiminey, chim chiminey, chim chim cher-ee
Chim chiminey, chim chim cher-ee chim cher-oo
Themes of the Song
“Chim Chim Cheree” celebrates the whimsical charm and good luck associated with chimney sweeps.
- Good Luck Symbolism: Chimney sweeps are portrayed as bearers of luck and fortune.
- Life’s Journey: The ladder metaphor highlights life’s ups and downs, with the sweep happily embracing his humble role.
- Pride in Work: The sweep takes pride in his tools and trade, showcasing dignity in a modest profession.
- Magical Atmosphere: The song paints a dreamy picture of London rooftops, blending light, shadow, and smoke.
- Joyful Companionship: Being with a chimney sweep means sharing happiness and camaraderie.
The song captures the enchanting world of chimney sweeps, blending themes of luck, pride, and joy amidst the backdrop of London’s rooftops.
It invites listeners to find happiness in simple lives and unexpected places, celebrating the magic in everyday moments.
Chim Chim Cheree Lyrical Video
Live Performances of “Chim Chim Cheree”
Songs Similar to “Chim Chim Cher-Ee”
Fans of this whimsical Mary Poppins classic might also enjoy other musical numbers that blend playful lyrics with a touch of magic.
These songs often share the same spirit of finding wonder in everyday life, wrapped in catchy melodies. From Disney favourites to Broadway showtunes, here are some delightful matches for “Chim Chim Cher-ee” lovers.
- “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” (Mary Poppins, 1964): A lively song celebrating a magical, silly word that lifts moods and symbolizes joyful, imaginative fun with playful language and upbeat rhythm.
- “The Bare Necessities” (The Jungle Book, 1967): A carefree jazz tune encouraging simplicity and happiness by appreciating life’s essential joys while letting go of worries about unnecessary desires and complications
- “Step in Time” (Mary Poppins, 1964): An energetic, rhythmic chimney sweep dance number embodying joyful teamwork and lively London street spirit through fast-paced choreography and exuberant vocals.
Each shares “Chim Chim Cher-ee”‘s blend of humour, optimism, and infectious melody.
Ready for more classic song analysis? Check out our breakdown of Come Dancing Lyrics and see how The Kinks captured the spirit of dancehall romance!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Mary Poppins Song Won an Oscar?
“Chim Chim Cheree” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1965 for Mary Poppins. It was performed by Dick Van Dyke in the film.
Where Did the Song “Chim Chim Cheree” Come From?
“Chim Chim Cheree” was written by the Sherman Brothers for Disney’s Mary Poppins in 1964. It was performed by Dick Van Dyke’s character, Bert, in the film.
What’s the Chimney Sweep in Mary Poppins?
The chimney sweep in Mary Poppins is Bert, played by Dick Van Dyke. He is a cheerful, friendly character who works as a chimney sweep and befriends the Banks children.
Kelsey Roberts is an accomplished songwriter with a knack for crafting lyrics that resonate with listeners. Having written for both indie artists and major labels, Kelsey brings a deep understanding of what makes a song truly impactful. Her expertise includes everything from song structure to lyrical storytelling. She’s passionate about helping others discover their voice through songwriting, providing tips and inspiration for creating songs that touch hearts.
