The Lion King London soundtrack: A complete guide to the West End setlist

Step into the Savanna, where Elton John and Tim Rice’s legendary soundtrack brings The Lion King to roaring life. This Tony and Olivier Award-winning musical, directed by Julie Taymor, pairs breathtaking visuals with an unforgettable score, blending Western pop with rich African rhythms by composer Lebo M and Hans Zimmer’s cinematic orchestrations.

🌅Act 1: The Circle Begins

The Pride Lands flourish under King Mufasa’s rule, but young Simba’s reckless curiosity leads him into danger. As he dreams of his future, his uncle Scar plots a coup, resulting in a tragedy that forces Simba into exile.

Circle of Life / Nants’ Ingonyama

Rafiki’s call signals the dawn of a new era as animals gather to welcome baby Simba. A powerful opening blending Zulu chants with soaring harmonies.

Grasslands Chant

The ensemble paints a picture of the vibrant and untamed African plains.

The Morning Report

Ever the diligent advisor, Zazu humorously updates Mufasa on royal affairs (note: often omitted in newer productions).

The Lioness Hunt

The lionesses showcase their skill in a stunningly choreographed, rhythmic, percussive hunting sequence.

I Just Can’t Wait to Be King

Young Simba and Nala dream of a carefree reign, full of playful rebellion. A colorful, energetic number filled with childlike excitement.

Chow Down

The hyenas—Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed—make their entrance with a darkly humorous ode to their, um, appetites.

They Live in You

Mufasa imparts wisdom to Simba, reminding him that past kings live on within him. Later reprised as He Lives in You (Reprise).

Be Prepared

Scar plots his rise to power in this ominous, militaristic anthem. Dark, theatrical, and dripping with villainy.

The Stampede

A heart-pounding orchestral piece underscoring the tragic turning point in Simba’s life.

Rafiki Mourns

A haunting, choral lament following Mufasa’s death.

Hakuna Matata

Enter Timon and Pumbaa! The iconic feel-good philosophy that takes Simba from grief-stricken exile to laid-back hakuna vibes.

🦁Act 2: The Path to Destiny

Simba, now grown, enjoys a carefree life away from his responsibilities. But as the Pride Lands suffer under Scar’s rule, Nala and Rafiki remind him of his true heritage, leading him to reclaim his place as king.

One by One

A choral interlude showcasing African vocal traditions celebrating resilience and hope, often performed before the curtain rises for Act 2.

The Madness of King Scar

Absolute power is not sitting well with Scar, whose paranoia and dissatisfaction start to unravel his rule.

Shadowland

Nala, realizing she must leave the Pride Lands, sings this emotional farewell, originally composed for the Broadway adaptation by Lebo M.

The Lion Sleeps Tonight

A playful, comedic moment with Timon and Pumbaa.

Endless Night

Simba, lost in self-doubt, remembers his father’s words and finds strength.

Can You Feel the Love Tonight

Elton John’s Oscar-winning ballad marks Simba and Nala’s reunion and their blossoming romance.

He Lives in You (Reprise)

Rafiki guides Simba to embrace his destiny in this powerful, spiritual anthem.

Simba Confronts Scar

Tension builds as Simba returns to challenge his uncle.

King of Pride Rock / Circle of Life (Reprise)

Simba ascends the throne, restoring balance as the Circle of Life theme swells in a triumphant finale.

🎶Musical Highlights & Signature Sounds

• Academy Award Wins: Can You Feel the Love Tonight won Best Original Song.
• Tony Award for Best Original Score: Elton John & Tim Rice’s work, enhanced by Lebo M’s choral arrangements, redefined musical theatre soundscapes.
• African Influence: Lebo M’s contributions, including Shadowland and He Lives in You, add an authentic depth.
• Orchestral Power: Hans Zimmer’s cinematic compositions (notably The Stampede) create emotional intensity.

From thundering stampedes to joyous anthems, The Lion King’s soundtrack is a masterpiece of storytelling. You’ve heard the songs, now feel them in all their theatrical glory. Don’t just listen—experience the magic live at London’s Lyceum Theatre. Book your tickets now and step into the Circle of Life!