It’s a language of South Africa, while all the characters’ names in “The Lion King” are in Swahili, a language of eastern and southeastern Africa. You probably know the rest of the lyrics by heart.Īs the Genius annotations explain, it’s notable that the opening of the song is sung in Zulu. However, we’re in luck, because now there’s a translation of the lyrics into English, via Genius.Ī lion and a leopard come to this open place”.įrom that point, the song segues into English lyrics. But, those who aren’t fluent in the language have likely never understood those lyrics. If you speak Zulu, it might be pretty underwhelming.

Here are the immortal words of Elton John, Tim Rice, and the animals of the Savannah: The opening song of “ The Lion King” has some pretty distinctive lyrics, though few of us actually know what all of them mean. “The Circle of Life,” starts out in Zulu before switching over to English. Michael Crawford sang it as part of a medley for The Disney Album in 2001.English translation of the ‘Circle of Life’ By Lawlinguists In Facts, translator

18 in the US and is featured frequently in attractions based on The Lion King, such as Disney theme parks and parades. 'Circle of Life' was also nominated for a Song of the Year Grammy. 'Circle of Life' was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1994, along with two other songs from The Lion King: 'Hakuna Matata' and 'Can You Feel the Love Tonight', the latter of which won the award. ' Elton John sang a pop version (with alternative lyrics) of the song with the London Community Gospel Choir, which was included in the film's soundtrack and made into a music video. By half-past three, he'd finished writing and recording a stunning demo. In an interview, Rice said he was amazed at the speed with which John composed: 'I gave him the lyrics at the beginning of the session at about two in the afternoon.

(opening Zulu vocals) as the film's opening song. Composed by Elton John, with lyrics by Tim Rice, the song was performed by Carmen Twillie (the deep female lead vocals) and Lebo M. 'Circle of Life' is a song from Disney's 1994 animated film The Lion King.

Lyrics to circle of life