Mufasa: The Lion King’s soundtrack, composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, brings new life to the beloved franchise with a catchy and emotional score. Miranda’s signature style shines through, blending powerful African melodies with more contemporary elements that fit quite well with the iconic Disney story. While it might not be one ofthe best soundtracks featured in Disney movies, it still brings a lot of heart and energy, giving fans something fresh to enjoy fromThe Lion Kinguniverse.
Among the standout tracks,“Bye Bye” and “I Always Wanted A Brother” truly shine as the best of the collection. Capturing the emotional core of the 2024Lion Kinginstallment, all the songs, but especially these two, elevate the legendary tale to a modern story worth giving a watch. With refreshingly brilliant deliveries from the cast, the soundtrack is a must-listen for anyone who lovesThe Lion Kingmovies.
As a reimagination of one of the most iconic Disney movies of all time,Mufasa: The Lion Kinghad the difficult mission of honoring the original tale while telling an original story that would justify the existence of this live-action prequel/sequel. Despite grossing over a billion at the box office in 2019, Disney’sThe Lion Kingremake sparked some debate about the need for live-action versions of iconic animated movies. Regardless,theLion Kingfranchise never disappoints when it comes to music, and it was no different forMufasa.
7Lebo M. - Ngomso
The Opening Number
Lebo M.’s “Ngomso” was used as the opening song forMufasa: The Lion King, but it seems not to be living up to the expectations of its predecessors. The original 1994 movie featured “Circle of Life” in its stunning opening sequence, which remains one ofthe best Disney songs of all timeto this day. “Ngomso,” on the other hand, despite also being performed by Lebo M., struggles to make the same lasting impression with its message.
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These Disney songs are catchy, inspirational, and very easy to learn, meaning that fans will be singing them forever, indulging in Disney nostalgia.
Granted,Mufasaonly just came out recently, but “Ngomso” hasn’t been discussed as a noteworthy track as of yet. The title translates to “tomorrow” in Xhosa, reflecting a universal tone of hope and continuity, which sounds an awful lot like what “Circle of Life” did. Despite objectively being a good tune,“Ngomso” lacks the originality and spirit that the 1994Lion Kingsoundtrack so masterfully delivered.
6Mufasa: The Lion King - Cast - We Go Together
A Lively Journey Anthem
Performed by Aaron Pierre (Mufasa), Kagiso Lediga (Rafiki), Kelvin Harrison Jr. (Taka), Preston Nyman (Zazu), and Tiffany Boone (Sarabi),the cast ofMufasa: The Lion King, “We Go Together” stands out as a catchy song, but apparently, not catchy enough. While it does sound like a classicLion Kingtune,it doesn’t seem to be poised to become a fan favorite any time soon.
Compared to the olderLion Kingtunes about camaraderie, such as “Hakuna Matata,” it’s clear that “We Go Together” has a long way to go.
Despite being a vibrant ensemble song featured in a particularly fun scene in the movie, “We Go Together” did not gain widespread attention as of this writing. Featuring hallmarks of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s compositional style, the upbeat tempo and harmonious vocals convey a sense of adventure and optimism that fit well intoMufasa. Still, compared to the olderLion Kingtunes about camaraderie, such as “Hakuna Matata,” it’s clear that “We Go Together” has a long way to go.
5Kelvin Harrison Jr. - Brother Betrayed
The Last Big Song
“Brother Betrayed” stands out asthe only song in theMufasa: The Lion Kingscore that is performed by a single cast member.Kelvin Harrison Jr., who voices Taka (later named Scar) in the movie, delivered a powerful and poignant performance that captured his character’s inner turmoil. However, the bold delivery doesn’t seem to have done much for the song’s success, as “Brother Betrayed” hasn’t sparked significant enthusiasm among fans.
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Reasons Mufasa: The Lion King’s reviews are so mixed stem from its inability to meet high expectations, leaving viewers questioning its purpose.
Notably, in the context of the movie, Harrison Jr.’s execution had a much stronger momentum than when listened to on its own. Featured during a critical moment in the story, when Taka comes to the conclusion that Mufasa has betrayed him,the tune brings his feelings to life in a dramatic way, somewhat making the viewer even feel bad for him. Therefore, despite not receiving much love, “Brother Betrayed” is arguably a good villain origin song.
4Anika Noni Rose, Keith David - Milele
The First Full Musical Number
Despite being one of the more poignant songs inMufasa: The Lion King, “Milele” did not do much better than the other songs in terms of recognition. The tune masterfully blends traditional African rhythms with modern musical theater elements. However,it is the story behind it that matters most.
“Assisted by franchise veteran Lebo M., Miranda brings his addictive melodies and spry lyricism to the movie and creates a soundtrack that can hold its own against the original.” -ScreenRant’sMufasa: The Lion Kingreview
Performed by Anika Noni Rose and Keith David, who voice Afia and Masego, Mufasa’s parents, “Milele” is about the pair sending their son off to a better land amid a horrible drought. In Swahili,“Milele” means “tomorrow,” symbolizing hope for better days ahead and the eternal nature of life.If that sounds familiar, it’s likely because “He Lives You,” the iconic 1994 tune from the originalLion King, has a similar message. Again, while a solid song, “Milele” somewhat lacks the quintessential Disney charm fans came to expect.
3Aaron Pierre, Tiffany Boone - Tell Me It’s You
The Ultimate Love Song
Finally breaking out of the background, “Tell Me It’s You” has been lauded for its heartfelt emotion and evocative tone by both audiences and critics alike.The song infuses the nostalgicLion Kingfeel in theMufasa: The Lion Kingsoundtrack, standing out as one of the best in the new score.
InMufasa, the song marks a pivotal moment where Mufasa and Sarabi set the foundation for their future as leaders of the Pride Lands.
The heartfelt duet is performed by Aaron Pierre and Tiffany Boone, who voice Mufasa and Sarabi, respectively, as they start to realize their growing feelings for each other. The song delves into their deepening bond, elevating the already visually stunning scene during which it was delivered. As the pair chase one another through icy caves, they share their thoughts on love, trust, and destiny. InMufasa, the song marks a pivotal moment where the two lions set the foundation for their future as leaders of the Pride Lands.
2Mufasa: The Lion King - Cast - Bye Bye
Kiros' Villain Song
Despite receiving some mixed reviews, “Bye Bye” arguably stands out as one of the best songs in the 2024Lion Kinginstallment. Even though not everyone is a fan,the tune objectively marks a powerful arc introduction for Kiros,Mufasa’santi-hero. Sang by actor Mads Mikkelsen, who delivered a bold and impressive performance with the help of Folake Olowofoyeku and Joanna Jones, “Bye Bye” features a catchy melody and an upbeat tempo.
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While we haven’t gotten to know his entire story yet, Kiros seems to be poised to become one ofDisney’s most brutal villains, especially since he was given a full song to introduce himself. After a period of relatively underwhelming villain tunes, “Bye Bye” can surely be described as a breath of fresh air in theMufasascore. Additionally, Mikkelsen’s performance was one of its most appealing features, with both fans and critics praising it.
1Mufasa: The Lion King - Cast - I Always Wanted A Brother
A Touching Duet Celebrating Newfound Brotherhood
Outshining the rest of theMufasa: The Lion Kingscore, at least in terms of overwhelmingly positive feedback, “I Always Wanted A Brother” is a standout track. The catchy song fit into the movie to perfection, arguably becoming one ofthe best songs in the entireLion Kingseries. In any case, it beautifully captured Mufasa and Taka’s sibling relationship, making their later drama all the more heartbreaking. If any song inMufasacan become as iconic as the ones in the original film, it’s “I Always Wanted A Brother.”
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Performed by Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr. with the help of Braelyn Rankins and Theo Somolu, “I Always Wanted A Brother” was accompanied by an equally heartwarming scene. As Mufasa and Taka run through the savanna, they tell each other how much they’ve always wanted to have a brother, reflecting on their shared dreams and the beginning of their journey together. Notably, Taka’s “Brother Betrayed” later begins as a reprise of “I Always Wanted A Brother,” creating a heartbreaking full-circle moment inMufasa: The Lion King.
Mufasa: The Lion King
Cast
Mufasa: The Lion King explores the origins of the beloved character Mufasa, focusing on his youth as a lost cub who encounters Taka, a royal heir. Their meeting initiates an epic journey of self-discovery and destiny, featuring a group of misfit companions navigating the challenges of their world.
