Our Town (James Taylor song)

"Our Town" is a song written and performed by James Taylor for the Pixar animated film Cars (2006). The song was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song at the 79th Academy Awards. It explores themes of nostalgia, community, and the impact of progress and change on small towns.

The lyrics depict a town, likely Radiator Springs (the fictional setting of Cars), that has seen better days. It reflects on the close-knit relationships and shared experiences of the residents, contrasting them with the present-day feeling of neglect and abandonment as the town is bypassed by the Interstate. The song's melancholic melody and evocative lyrics contribute to its emotional impact, highlighting the loss of connection and the fading of small-town America.

The song’s arrangement features Taylor's signature acoustic guitar and vocals, augmented by orchestral elements. It served as the closing song of the movie, and underscored the bittersweet message about the importance of remembering the past and preserving community in the face of modernization. Randy Newman composed the film's score, and the pairing of Newman's score with Taylor's song contributed significantly to the film's emotional depth.