Lebo M, born Lebohang Morake, grew up in apartheid-era South Africa. Today, he is known for his iconic Zulu chant in The Lion King (1994). Now, 30 years later, the 60-year-old South African singer, producer, and composer is back with a new song for the Lion King prequel, Mufasa: The Lion King.
A Legacy of Powerful Music
Lebo M’s Zulu cry at the start of The Lion King became one of the most memorable moments in film. His voice opened the movie with Circle of Life, setting the tone for the entire journey. In the prequel, Mufasa: The Lion King, he returns with his new composition, Ngomso. The song tells Mufasa’s backstory and captures the essence of the Pride Lands.
A Collaboration with Lin-Manuel Miranda
Lebo M has also teamed up with Lin-Manuel Miranda for Mufasa: The Lion King. Miranda, who wrote the music for the film, emphasized the importance of Lebo M’s contributions. “He is the sound of The Lion King,” Miranda said. The two worked together to create a soundtrack that is both new and familiar, blending fresh melodies with the unforgettable style of the original.
Creative Process: From Challenge to Triumph
Writing a new opening song for the film was a big challenge. Lebo M admitted that it was tough to follow up on his past success. However, the process of creating Ngomso was surprisingly similar to his earlier work. He began composing the music early in the morning, using simple instruments like bongo drums and cymbals. By the time the rest of the team arrived, the song was almost complete. This easy flow of creativity shows how deeply connected Lebo M is to the Lion King legacy.
Continuing the Legacy
Lebo M’s return to The Lion King franchise highlights his lasting influence in film music. His ability to blend African sounds with modern compositions has made him an essential part of the series. As Mufasa: The Lion King premieres worldwide, fans can look forward to another unforgettable musical journey, thanks to the talent and dedication of Lebo M.
