Circle of Life

Elton John

About Circle of Life

"Circle of Life" is a song from Disney's 1994 animated film The Lion King. Composed by Elton John, with lyrics by Tim Rice, the song was performed by Carmen Twillie (the deep female lead vocals) and Lebo M. (opening Zulu vocals) as the film's opening song. In an interview, Rice said he was amazed at the speed with which John composed: "I gave him the lyrics at the beginning of the session at about two in the afternoon. By half-past three, he'd finished writing and recording a stunning demo. " Elton John sang a pop version (with alternative lyrics) of the song with the London Community Gospel Choir, which was included in the film's soundtrack and made into a music video. "Circle of Life" was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1994, along with two other songs from The Lion King: "Hakuna Matata" and "Can You Feel the Love Tonight", the latter of which won the award. "Circle of Life" was also nominated for a Song of the Year Grammy. The song reached No. 11 in the UK and No. 18 in the US and is featured frequently in attractions based on The Lion King, such as Disney theme parks and parades. Michael Crawford sang it as part of a medley for The Disney Album in 2001. 


Year:
1996
4:50
1,141 
#2

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From the day we arrive on the planet
And blinking, step into the Sun
There's more to be seen than can ever be seen
More to do than can ever be done

Some say eat or be eaten
Some say live and let live
But all are agreed as they join the stampede
You should never take more than you give

In the circle of life
It's the wheel of fortune
It's the leap of faith
It's the band of hope
Till we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle, the circle of life

Some of us fall by the wayside
And some of us soar to the stars
And some of us sail through our troubles
And some have to live with the scars

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

In the circle of life
It's the wheel of fortune
It's the leap of faith
It's the band of hope
Till we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle, the circle of life

It's the wheel of fortune
It's the leap of faith
It's the band of hope
Till we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle, the circle of life

On the path unwinding
In the circle, the circle of life

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Elton John

Sir Elton Hercules John, CBE (born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on 25 March 1947) is an English rock singer-songwriter, composer, pianist and occasional actor. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin as his songwriter partner since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums to date. more »

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Written by: Elton John, Tim Rice

Lyrics © Walt Disney Music Company

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


13 facts about this song

Disney Soundtrack
"Circle of Life" is a hit song from the 1994 Disney animated film, "The Lion King." It is the opening track of the original motion picture and sets the tone for the entire film.
Music Legends
The song is performed by American singer Carmen Twillie and the London Community Gospel Choir. It features well-known South African Zulu vocalist Lebo M. as the African voices in the background.
Iconic Collaboration
The song was composed by British pop star Elton John, renowned for his remarkable contribution to the music industry, and the lyrics were masterfully created by Tim Rice.
Oscar Recognition
"Circle of Life" was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Song in 1994, marking the iconic stature of the song.
Grammy Nomination
It was also nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture, Television, or Other Visual Media.
Billboard Chart
Shared by Elton John and Carmen Twillie, "Circle of Life" topped the Billboards as it was No. 11 on the US Billboard’s Hot 100.
Cultural Significance
The song and its lyrics have a deep cultural significance in terms of the cycle of life and death, making it a philosophical reference in popular culture.
MusikONE Version
Renowned for her performance, Carmen Twillie was not the sole performer of "Circle of Life." In 2003 Elton John released a version of the song sung by the British R&B and soul group MusikONE.
Music Video
The song's music video, featuring Elton John performing the song in a dark studio lit by spotlights, gained high popularity, reaching over 52 million views on YouTube alone.
Broadway Success
"Circle of Life" doesn't just shine on screens, it also made a huge success as the opening sequence in the Broadway adaptation of "The Lion King." It is one of the most memorable moments, featuring the unique puppetry and visual spectacle.
Use in Sequels and Spin-offs
"Circle of Life" has also been featured in sequels and spin-off series of the “Lion King” franchise, maintaining its sturdiness in the industry.
Cover Versions
Over the years, many artists have covered the "Circle of Life." The song's message and melody make it a favorite for interpretations in different styles and genres.
Global Impact
"Circle of Life" has been translated and covered in various languages over the years, proving its worldwide impact and timeless appeal.

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