Scoreload

"The Lion Sleeps Tonight" is a song that gained significant popularity through its use in Disney's animated film "The Lion King." Here are some interesting facts about the song and its association with the movie:

1. Original Song:

   • The song was originally written and recorded in 1939 by South African singer Solomon Linda with the Evening Birds. The original title of the song is "Mbube," which means "lion" in Zulu.

2. Wimoweh:

   • The Weavers, an American folk music group, adapted and recorded a version of the song in 1951 titled "Wimoweh." This version altered the lyrics and added the distinctive "Wimoweh" chant.

3. "The Lion Sleeps Tonight":

   • In 1961, the American singing group The Tokens released a cover of "Wimoweh" with new lyrics written by George David Weiss. The revised version became widely popular and was titled "The Lion Sleeps Tonight."

4. In "The Lion King":

   • The song gained renewed popularity when it was featured in Disney's "The Lion King" (1994). In the movie, it is performed by the characters Timon (a meerkat) and Pumbaa (a warthog) as they teach Simba (the lion cub) about their carefree philosophy of life.

5. Hakuna Matata:

   • The segment of the song featured in "The Lion King" is part of the iconic "Hakuna Matata" sequence, where Timon and Pumbaa sing about living a worry-free life.

6. Popularity and Awards:

   • "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song in 1995. While the song didn't win the award, its inclusion in "The Lion King" contributed to the film's overall success.

7. Cultural Impact:

   • The song has been covered and adapted by numerous artists over the years, making it a globally recognized tune. It has appeared in various movies, TV shows, and commercials, further solidifying its place in popular culture.

8. Controversy and Rights:

   • The original writer, Solomon Linda, received little compensation for his composition during his lifetime. After his death, there were efforts to secure royalties for his family. In the 2000s, agreements were reached, and Linda's heirs received royalties and recognition for his contribution to the song.

"The Lion Sleeps Tonight" remains a timeless and catchy tune that has transcended generations, thanks to its association with both traditional African music and its inclusion in the beloved Disney classic, "The Lion King."