About the song
The Tokens’ “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” is a song that has transcended generations, becoming an enduring symbol of joy, optimism, and the power of music to unite. Originally composed in Zulu by Solomon Linda in the 1930s, the song was introduced to a wider audience by The Weavers in the 1950s. However, it was The Tokens’ 1961 cover that catapulted the song to international fame, topping charts around the world.
The song’s infectious melody and upbeat tempo have made it a beloved anthem for celebrations, parties, and good times. The iconic “Wimoweh” chorus, which is actually a Zulu word meaning “sleep,” has become instantly recognizable and has been incorporated into countless parodies, commercials, and films. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal appeal and its ability to evoke feelings of happiness and nostalgia.
Beyond its commercial success, “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” has also had a significant cultural impact. It has been adopted by various ethnic groups and has been performed in countless languages, demonstrating its timeless appeal and its ability to bridge cultural divides. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the power of music to transcend language, time, and cultural barriers.
In the following paragraphs, we will explore the song’s history, its cultural significance, and the enduring legacy of The Tokens.
Video
Lyrics
Weeheeheehee dee heeheeheehee weeoh aweem away
Weeheeheehee dee heeheeheehee weeoh aweem away
In the jungle, the mighty jungle
The lion sleeps tonight
In the jungle the quiet jungle
The lion sleeps tonight
Wee heeheehee weeoh aweem away
Wee heeheehee weeoh aweem away
Near the village, the peaceful village
The lion sleeps tonight
Near the village, the quiet village
The lion sleeps tonight
Wee heeheeheehee weeoh aweem away
Rrr, la la la weeoh aweem away
Hush, my darling, don’t fear, my darling,
The lion sleeps tonight
Hush, my darling, don’t fear, my darling,
The lion sleeps tonight
Wah oh oh, wah oh oh, wah oh wimoweh
Weeheeheehee dee heeheeheehee weeoh aweem away
Weeheeheehee dee heeheeheehee weeoh aweem away