Fans of the beloved film “The Lion King” were recently treated to a delightful surprise when over 35 unreleased tracks from the movie’s original soundtrack were unearthed by devoted fans. These tracks include demos, alternative versions, and songs used in the film’s trailers, as well as a never-before-heard song.
Among the discoveries are early versions of iconic songs like “Circle of Life,” “Hakuna Matata,” and “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King.” One particularly exciting find is a previously unreleased song titled “Thanks to Me,” performed by Elton John, which is actually an early prototype of the song “Be Prepared.” Despite the difference in vocal styles between Elton John and Jeremy Irons, who famously voiced Scar in the original film, the sinister ambiance of the song remains intact, offering fans a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind the music of “The Lion King.”
For those unfamiliar with the story, “The Lion King” (1994) follows the journey of Simba, a playful and adventurous lion cub who must navigate a world of loss and betrayal after his father’s tragic death. The film has captivated audiences for decades with its timeless tale of redemption and self-discovery.
Exciting news for fans continues with the upcoming release of “Mufasa: The Lion King,” a prequel to the 2019 live-action adaptation of the film. Directed by Barry Jenkins and presented in a series of flashbacks, the film will explore the backstory of Mufasa and shed light on his complicated relationship with Scar. Set to be released on December 18, this highly anticipated film promises to expand upon the rich mythology of the original story and offer new insights into the characters fans have come to love.
In the meantime, fans can revisit the classic “The Lion King” (1994) on Disney+, along with the live-action adaptation from 2019. The legacy of this timeless tale continues to captivate audiences of all ages, and with the discovery of these previously unreleased tracks, fans have even more reason to celebrate the magic of “The Lion King.”
As we eagerly await the release of “Mufasa: The Lion King,” let’s take a moment to appreciate the music that has touched the hearts of millions and the enduring legacy of a beloved classic. Stay tuned for more updates and exclusive content as we journey back to the Pride Lands and beyond.