Allmusic said, "For all its charm, it can't help but sound a bit like a second-rate version of Toy Story's "You've Got a Friend in Me," but it's still a winning song."[2] JazzHistoryOnline deemed it a "heartfelt love song".[3] The New York Times described it as "one of his lesser efforts".[4] Sydney Morning Herald deemed it "his input in the film's feel-good soundtrack", adding, "Newman's astute musical nuances are crucial in cementing the film's broad appeal".[5] JazzTimes called it "charming".[6] DVDDizzy called it "a pleasant number that captures the protagonists' friendship".[7]
Newman received a standing ovation when collecting his Best Original Song trophy for the song. He said: "I want to thank, first of all, the music branch [of the Motion Picture Academy] for giving me so many chances to be humiliated over the years...I am absolutely astounded that I won for this." During the ceremony he performed "If I Didn't Have You" with help from actor John Goodman.[8] Later, he said "I'd rather have had it for a score, but I was much more moved by the event than I ever thought I would be. You know it's not a measure of anything real, but I was up there and so was Jennifer Lopez and the orchestra stood up and it kind of got to me. I was almost embarrassed – but not quite."[9]
Versions
Film versions
Two versions of "If I Didn't Have You" appear on the film's soundtrack: one sung by Billy Crystal and John Goodman, who voice the film's main characters, Mike and Sulley and one sung by Newman. The tune also serves as the film's theme, which plays during the opening credits.