About the song
“The Lion Sleeps Tonight” is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences across the globe for generations. With its haunting melody and infectious rhythms, this song has been a staple of popular music for over eight decades. The song’s origins date back to 1939, when Solomon Linda, a South African musician, wrote and recorded the original version, titled “Mbube”, under the Gallo Record Company. The lyrics, penned in Zulu, told a story of a lion’s nocturnal slumber, which would later be adapted into English by George David Weiss.
Over the years, “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” has undergone numerous transformations, with various artists putting their own spin on the classic tune. From the Weavers’ 1951 rendition, titled “Wimoweh”, to R.E.M.’s 1980s cover, the song has been reimagined in countless ways. The Tokens’ 1961 adaptation, with its doo-wop harmonies and catchy chorus, became a number-one hit in the United States, earning millions in royalties and cementing the song’s place in the annals of popular music. The song’s enduring appeal has also led to numerous film and television appearances, further solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone.
Today, “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” remains a beloved classic, with its F major key and soaring melodies continuing to captivate audiences of all ages. Whether performed by a doo-wop group, a folk ensemble, or a pop band, this song’s timeless charm and universal appeal ensure its continued relevance and popularity. As a testament to its enduring legacy, “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” continues to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers alike, ensuring its place as one of the most iconic and enduring songs of all time.
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Lyrics
Weeheeheehee dee heeheeheehee weeoh aweem away
Weeheeheehee dee heeheeheehee weeoh aweem away
In the jungle, the mighty jungle
The lion sleeps tonight
In the jungle the quiet jungle
The lion sleeps tonight
Wee heeheehee weeoh aweem away
Wee heeheehee weeoh aweem away
Near the village, the peaceful village
The lion sleeps tonight
Near the village, the quiet village
The lion sleeps tonight
Wee heeheeheehee weeoh aweem away
Rrr, la la la weeoh aweem away
Hush, my darling, don’t fear, my darling,
The lion sleeps tonight
Hush, my darling, don’t fear, my darling,
The lion sleeps tonight
Wah oh oh, wah oh oh, wah oh wimoweh
Weeheeheehee dee heeheeheehee weeoh aweem away
Weeheeheehee dee heeheeheehee weeoh aweem away