Different Drummer

"Different Drummer" is a deleted song from the film Pocahontas. It has Pocahontas singing about how she wants to be someone her father can be truly proud of, rather than merely someone who amuses him, but she can't because she's so different from everyone else. Grandmother Willow counters that Pocahontas's different way of thinking is a good one that she should stay true to, and that she wishes that more people would think like Pocahontas.

Lyrics
Pocahontas: I know the paths my people walk They're old and smooth and good Why do I pick a different path To follow through the wood?

And I know the songs my people sing They're pure and true and strong Why does my heart keep echoing A new and different song? Am I doing something wrong?

I hear a different drummer playing in my head Why can't I hear the beat my brother hears instead? Sometimes I wonder if I'll dance right off a cliff From dancing to a different drummer

I hear a different drummer playing, sweet and loud I make my father laugh, but can I make him proud Or will I always be As useless as a flea? As flighty as a bee in summer From dancing to a different drummer

He ya, he ya My sister Moon is shining bright He ya, he ya Why do I see things in a different light?

(instrumental)

Grandmother Willow: You hear a different drummer, daughter, I agree But child, your music doesn't sound so strange to me In fact, from where I stand I hope it fills the land Many a winter and a summer

Pocahontas: Then why am I the only dancer Who's dancing to a different drummer?

I want to see my father's eyes Smile at me with pride I want to know when he's feeling lost I can be his guide But does it mean I have to change Who I am inside?

Grandmother Willow: Meanwhile there's nothing you can do Except to go on being you

Both: Except to go on dancing to a different drummer

Trivia

 * This song seems to have been made rather early in the film's development, as Pocahontas mentions having a brother and gives off a more childlike impression than she does in the finished film.