About the song
The Lion Sleeps Tonight, a song that has woven itself into the very fabric of popular music, is a testament to the enduring power of a melody. Originally penned as a Zulu folk song, its journey from the African savanna to the global stage is a captivating narrative. While the song has been interpreted by countless artists, it is undoubtedly The Tokens who are credited with propelling it to unprecedented heights of popularity.
Released in 1961, The Tokens’ version of The Lion Sleeps Tonight became an instant sensation. The group, hailing from New York City, had a knack for transforming material, adding their signature blend of doo-wop harmonies and infectious energy. It is their interpretation that most people associate with the song today.
What sets The Tokens’ rendition apart is its sheer exuberance. The opening vocal arrangement is a masterclass in doo-wop, with each member contributing distinctive harmonies that create a rich, textured sound. The song’s infectious rhythm, driven by the iconic “wimoweh” refrain, is irresistible. It’s a track that is impossible to listen to without tapping your foot or swaying to the beat.
Beyond its musical merits, The Lion Sleeps Tonight is a cultural touchstone. It has been featured in countless films, television shows, and commercials, ensuring its place in popular consciousness. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to transcend generations and cultural boundaries. It is a song that evokes feelings of joy, nostalgia, and unity.
The legacy of The Lion Sleeps Tonight is a testament to the power of music to connect people from all walks of life. The Tokens’ version remains a definitive interpretation, a sparkling gem in the crown of popular music.
Would you like to delve deeper into a specific aspect of the song or the group?
Video
Lyrics
“The Lion Sleeps Tonight”
Weeheeheehee, dee heeheeheehee, weeoh aweem away
A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh
A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh
A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh
A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh
In the jungle, the mighty jungle
The lion sleeps tonight
In the jungle, the quiet jungle
The lion sleeps tonight, ho, ho!
Weeheeheehee, dee heeheeheehee, weeoh aweem away
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Weeheeheehee, dee heeheeheehee weeoh aweem away
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Near the village, the peaceful village
The lion sleeps tonight
Near the village, the quiet village
The lion sleeps tonight, ho, ho!
Weeheeheehee, dee heeheeheehee, weeoh aweem away
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Rrrrrr, lalalaba, weeoh aweem away
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Hush, my darling, don’t fear, my darling
The lion sleeps tonight
Hush, my darling, don’t fear, my darling
The lion sleeps tonight, ho, ho!
Whoa, whoa, whoa; whoa, whoa, whoa; whoa, whoa, aweem away
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Weeheeheehee, dee heeheeheehee, weeoh aweem away
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Weeheeheehee, dee heeheeheehee, weeoh aweem away
Weeheeheehee, dee heeheeheehee, weeoh aweem away
Weeheeheehee, dee heeheeheehee, weeoh aweem away