All the Songs from Lion King the Musical: Every Song in the Show
Since The Lion King film came out in 1994, and the stage version followed a few years later, the music has become a big part of what makes the story so unforgettable.
Generations of fans have been drawn to Simba’s journey to becoming king, and the musical’s songs, written by Elton John and Tim Rice, are key to its magic. With favourites like Circle of Life and Can You Feel the Love Tonight, as well as new tracks made just for the stage, the music brings extra heart to the show.
In this guide, we’re covering all the songs from Lion King the musical, so if you’re planning to watch it, you’ll know exactly what to listen out for and what makes each song so special.
Key Takeaways
- Complete Track List: In this guide, we cover all the songs featured in the Lion King musical, from the powerful opening Circle of Life to the emotional finale.
- Cultural Influences: Discover how the musical blends familiar songs with new African-inspired tracks to give the story even more meaning.
- Expectations for Theatre: Find out what songs you’ll hear when you attend the musical, from Hakuna Matata to the lesser-known Endless Night.
All the Songs from Lion King the Musical
The musical version of The Lion King brings together unforgettable tunes from the original motion picture soundtrack and adds new numbers that capture the energy of live theatre.
Here are all the songs from the Lion King musical, in the order they appear in the show.
Circle of Life
Circle of Life is the opening number of the show, and it’s just as breath-taking as you’d expect. It marks the birth of Simba at Pride Rock, and the iconic Zulu chant translates to “Here comes a lion, father.” The animals gather to witness the presentation of the future king, with stunning visuals and glorious colours that bring the scene to life.
Grasslands Chant
This Zulu-inspired number highlights Simba’s early days as a cub in the Pride Lands. The lyrics symbolise his future role as king, and the rhythmic, uplifting music reflects the natural beauty of his surroundings. It’s one of the newer songs that didn’t appear in the Lion King film, adding richness to the stage adaptation.
The Lioness Hunt
The lionesses, led by Simba’s mother Sarabi and Nala’s mother Sarafina, head out to hunt in this energetic song. The rhythmic chanting of “We are going to hunt, father” is sung in Zulu, capturing the strength and unity of the lionesses. It’s a bold, lively number that showcases the pride’s survival instincts.
I Just Can’t Wait to Be King
This upbeat song is a fan favourite from the Lion King movie. Simba, filled with youthful excitement, dreams of being king and doing whatever he likes. With playful lyrics like “I’m gonna be the ‘mane’ event,” the song captures Simba’s carefree attitude before he faces the responsibilities that lie ahead. The bright visuals and Simba’s energy make this one of the musical’s most fun numbers.
Chow Down
Exclusive to the stage version, Chow Down is performed by Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed, the hyenas. They sing about their plans to make Simba and Nala their next meal. It’s a darker, more mischievous song, but with plenty of humour, as the hyenas gleefully anticipate their feast.
They Live in You
In this emotional song, Mufasa explains the importance of ancestors to Simba. He reminds his son that those who came before him live on in the stars, watching over and guiding him. The song has a beautiful message and ties back to the theme of the circle of life, showing the father-son bond that is central to the story.
Be Prepared
Scar’s iconic villain number, Be Prepared, is a dark, scheming song where he gathers the hyenas to help him overthrow Mufasa. The chilling lyrics and sinister tone make this one of the best-loved villain songs in Disney history. Scar’s ambitious plans to become king take shape in this dramatic piece, complete with menacing visuals on stage.
The Stampede
This high-energy number is packed with tension as the wildebeest stampede takes place. Simba is trapped, and the song builds up to the tragic moment when Mufasa is killed. The Zulu chant adds intensity, repeating “Here it comes!” and ending with a cry for Simba’s father.
Rafiki Mourns
After Mufasa’s death, Rafiki Mourns brings a sense of sorrow to the stage. This song is sung in Zulu, as Rafiki grieves the loss of the great king, while still holding onto hope that peace will one day return to the Pride Lands.
Hakuna Matata
One of the most iconic Lion King movie songs, Hakuna Matata means “no worries,” and it’s as catchy on stage as it is in the film. Timon and Pumbaa teach Simba to leave his troubles behind and live a carefree life. This upbeat, fun number is full of humour and gives the audience a break from the darker parts of the story.
One by One
This visually stunning number opens the second act, featuring lively puppetry and vibrant costumes. One by One is filled with African rhythms, and the Zulu lyrics encourage the animals to stay strong under Scar’s rule. The puppetry of colourful birds and the vibrant stage design make this one of the most memorable visual moments of the show.
The Madness of King Scar
Scar’s rule is falling apart, and this song captures his growing paranoia. The Pride Lands have fallen into disrepair, and Scar is desperate for respect, even though he has done nothing to earn it. This song portrays Scar’s instability as he realises that power isn’t as easy as he thought.
Shadowland
This emotional song highlights Nala’s decision to leave the Pride Lands in search of help. Sung partly in English and partly in Zulu, Shadowland expresses her sadness at the state of her home and her determination to find Simba and restore the Pride Lands. It’s a beautiful, moving piece that showcases Nala’s strength.
Endless Night
Exclusive to the musical, Endless Night is a heartfelt ballad where Simba reflects on the loss of his father. He feels abandoned and unsure of his path forward, singing to the stars in a moment of deep emotional vulnerability. It’s a beautiful ballad that’s both heart-breaking and hopeful.
Can You Feel the Love Tonight
This romantic song brings Simba and Nala back together as they realise their feelings for each other. Written by Elton John, the tune won an Oscar for Best Original Song. It’s a touching moment in the show, but it also marks the point where Simba must face his past and return to the Pride Lands.
He Lives in You
One of the most moving songs in the show, He Lives in You sees Rafiki reminding Simba that his father’s spirit lives on within him. This song gives Simba the strength to return and take his place as king. Mufasa also appears to Simba in the stars during this scene, encouraging him to fulfil his destiny.
Simba Confronts Scar
While this song doesn’t have any lyrics, the instrumental music builds the tension as Simba finally faces off with Scar. It’s the climactic moment where Simba takes back his role as king and confronts the truth about his father’s death.
King of Pride Rock/Circle of Life (Reprise)
The show closes by returning to the iconic Circle of Life song. This time, Simba is king, and the animals gather once again at Pride Rock to celebrate the birth of Simba and Nala’s own cub. The reprise of Circle of Life shows that balance has been restored to the kingdom.
Where to Watch Lion King the Musical
The Lion King musical is a global sensation, and you can catch performances in several locations around the world. Each production brings the magic of Disney’s beloved film to life with stunning visuals, unforgettable songs, and powerful performances.
Here are all the places where you can experience it live:
| Venue | Tickets |
|---|---|
| Lyceum Theatre, London | Book here |
| Minskoff Theatre, New York | Book here |
| North American Tour | Book here |
| Princess of Wales Theatre, Toronto | Book here |
| Lope de Vega Theatre, Madrid | Book here |
| Théâtre Mogador, Paris | Book here |
| Theater im Hafen, Hamburg | Book here |
| The Ariake Shiki Theatre, Tokyo | Book here |
| Teatro Renault, São Paulo | Book here |
Overall
The songs from Lion King the musical are a huge part of what makes the show so unforgettable. Whether you’re singing along to favourites like Hakuna Matata or being moved by exclusive tracks like Endless Night, the music brings the magic of the Pride Lands to life.
With shows in London, New York, and cities around the world, there’s no shortage of opportunities to experience the Lion King live on stage.
