Nants’ ingonyama, bagithi baba
Sithi uhm ingonyama
Nants’ ingonyama, bagithi baba
Sithi uhm ingonyama
Ingonyama siyo nqoba
Ingonyama nengw’ enamabala
From the day we arrive on the planet
And, blinking, step into the sun
There’s more to see than can ever be seen
More to do than can ever be done
There’s far too much to take in here
More to find than can ever be found
But the sun rolling high
Through the sapphire sky
Keeps great and small on the endless round
It’s the circle of life
And it moves us all
Through despair and hope
Through faith and love
‘Til we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle
The circle of life
It’s the circle of life
And it moves us all
Through despair and hope
Through faith and love
‘Til we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle
The circle of life
Behind the Music: Meaning & Story
The “Circle of Life” is the monumental opening theme of Disney’s 1994 animated masterpiece, The Lion King. The song is a unique collaboration between pop icon Elton John, who composed the melody, lyricist Tim Rice, and composer Hans Zimmer, who brought in South African musician Lebo M. to arrange the Zulu chants that have since become iconic.
The opening Zulu lines, “Nants’ ingonyama bagithi baba” (Here comes a lion, Father), were improvised by Lebo M. during the first recording session. These chants, combined with Carmen Twillie’s powerful lead vocals, set a majestic and spiritual tone for the film. The lyrics explore the philosophical theme of the “Circle of Life”—the idea that all living things are connected in a delicate balance of nature and responsibility.
Hans Zimmer’s production was so effective that the film’s creators decided to use the song in its entirety for the trailer, marking one of the first times an opening sequence was used as a standalone promotional tool. The song received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song and remains one of the most celebrated pieces in cinematic history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What language are the opening chants in?
The opening chants are in Zulu, one of the official languages of South Africa. They translate to “Here comes a lion, Father / Yes, it’s a lion.”
Who sings the version in the movie?
The film version is performed by Carmen Twillie, with the Zulu vocals performed by Lebo M. and his choir. Elton John recorded a pop version for the soundtrack.
When did The Lion King premiere in the UK?
The Lion King had its official theatrical release in the United Kingdom on October 7, 1994.
