Originally composed only in IsiZulu, it was adapted and covered internationally by many 1950s pop and folk revival artists, including The Weavers, Jimmy Dorsey, Yma Sumac, Miriam Makeba, The Kingston Trio and, apparently, The Tremeloes.
In 1961, it became a number one hit in the U.S. as adapted in English by the doo-wop group The Tokens. It went on to earn at least US$15 million in royalties from covers and film licensing.
In the mid-nineties, it became a pop "supernova" (in the words of South African writer Rian Malan) when licensed to Walt Disney for use in the film The Lion King, its spin-off TV series and live musical, prompting a lawsuit in 2004 on behalf of the impoverished descendants of Solomon Linda.
The Lion Sleeps Tonight
The Tremeloes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
In the jungle, the mighty jungle, the lion sleeps tonight
In the village, the quiet village, the lion sleeps tonight
In the village, the peaceful village, the lion sleeps tonight
Hush my darling, don't fear my darling, the lion sleeps tonight
Hush my darling, don't cry my darling, the lion sleeps tonight
The lyrics of The Tremeloes's song "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" describe a peaceful and quiet jungle and village where the lion is sleeping. This could symbolize peace and harmony between humans and animals, as well as the importance of respecting the natural world around us. The repetition of the phrase "the lion sleeps tonight" reinforces the idea of tranquility and calmness in these environments. The use of terms like "mighty" and "peaceful" further emphasizes the contrast between a powerful predator and the peaceful setting around it.
The lyrics also include several lines where the singer is comforting their loved one and assuring them that they should not fear or cry because the lion is sleeping. This could represent the idea that even though there may be danger or uncertainty in life, there are times where we can feel safe and protected. The use of the term "darling" suggests a loving and caring relationship between the singer and their partner, and the reassurance they offer could apply to any supportive relationship in our lives.
Line by Line Meaning
In the jungle, the quiet jungle, the lion sleeps tonight
Amidst the wild and still environment of the jungle, the king of beasts is taking a nap
In the jungle, the mighty jungle, the lion sleeps tonight
In the midst of the fierce and powerful jungle, the lion slumbers peacefully
In the village, the quiet village, the lion sleeps tonight
Even in the quiet and serene village, the lion is resting
In the village, the peaceful village, the lion sleeps tonight
In the harmonious and tranquil village, the king of the jungle is in peaceful slumber
Hush my darling, don't fear my darling, the lion sleeps tonight
My beloved, do not be afraid, for the powerful lion is calmly sleeping
Hush my darling, don't cry my darling, the lion sleeps tonight
My sweetheart, do not shed tears, for the mighty lion is resting soundly
Lyrics © CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC
Written by: George David Weiss, Hugo E Peretti, Luigi Creatore, Solomon Linda
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
JUAN ARMENDARIZ
la escuché mucho durante mi infancia con the tremeloes, me encanta, gracias por subirla
howard schwartz
Tremeloes give to all records amazing vocals. Great version of this classic.
Maree G
big hugs n thank you for sharing this ...Great songs..Love the Tremeloes!!!
David Harris
I heard this song when I was only 5 years old sang by the Vienna Boys choir. Song is magic for me. Best 2nd version sang by The Tokens - The Lion Sleeps Tonight. This is the closest to the choir group I have found.
Max Grande
That's a goodun, and they give us humor along with the quality. It is a compelling question: how do they sing so well with their tongues firmly in their cheeks? Thanks for an excellent upload of a very rare item.
nodidittrich
musica muito boa gostei
tiffany tabares
i really love this song so much....
robin2012ism
never heard this version! thanks!
Maurice Taylor
good vocals by Ricky Westwood in all a good version.
joyce somerville
Hi -I have heard some songs with great lyrics but let's not fall out about it -I love the Tremeloes and I saw the ex-lead singer Chip Hawkes in Glasgow a few weeks ago, looking and sounding just as great as ever -all the best-Donna