Every Mufasa: The Lion King Song, Ranked

Mufasa: The Lion KingLin-Manuel Miranda's soundtrack brings new life to the beloved franchise with a captivating and emotional soundtrack. Miranda's signature style shines, blending powerful African melodies with more contemporary elements that fit well with the iconic Disney story. While it may not be one of the best Disney movie soundtracks, it still packs a lot of heart and energy, giving fans something new to enjoy. The Lion King universe.

Among the standout tracks, “Bye Bye” and “I Always Wanted A Brother” really shine as the best of the collection. Capturing the emotional core of 2024 Lion King installment, every song, but especially these two, elevate the legendary tale to a modern story worth watching. With refreshingly brilliant deliveries from the cast, the soundtrack is a must for anyone who loves The Lion King films.

As a reimagining of one of Disney's most iconic films of all time, Mufasa: The Lion King had the difficult mission of honoring the original story and at the same time telling an original story that justified the existence of this live-action prequel/sequel. Despite grossing more than a billion at the box office in 2019, the Disney film The Lion King The remake sparked some debate about the need for live-action versions of iconic animated films. Without considering, the Lion King franchise never disappoints when it comes to music, and it was no different for Mufasa.

7

Lebo M. - Ngomso

The opening number

“Ngomso” by Lebo M. was used as the opening song of Mufasa: The Lion Kingbut it seems not to live up to the expectations of its predecessors. The original 1994 film featured “Circle of Life” in its stunning opening sequence, which remains one of the best Disney songs of all time to this day. “Ngomso”, on the other hand, despite also being performed by Lebo M., struggles to make the same lasting impression with its message.

Guaranteed, Mufasa was recently released, but “Ngomso” has yet to be discussed as a noteworthy track. The title translates to “tomorrow” in Xhosa, reflecting a universal tone of hope and continuity, which sounds a lot like what “Circle of Life” did. Despite objectively being a good song, “Ngomso” lacks the originality and spirit that the 1994 film Lion King soundtrack so masterfully delivered.

6

Mufasa: The Lion King - Cast - Let's Go Together

A lively travel anthem

Played by Aaron Pierre (Mufasa), Kagiso Lediga (Rafiki), Kelvin Harrison Jr. (Taka), Preston Nyman (Zazu) and Tiffany Boone (Sarabi), the cast of Mufasa: The Lion King“We Go Together” stands out as a catchy song, but seemingly not catchy enough. Although it looks like a classic Lion King tune, doesn't look like it's about to become a fan favorite anytime soon.

Despite being a vibrant song featured in a particularly fun scene in the film, “We Go Together” hasn't gained much attention as of this writing. Featuring characteristics of Lin-Manuel Miranda's songwriting style, the upbeat rhythm and harmonious vocals convey a sense of adventure and optimism that fits well with Mufasa. Still, compared to the older Lion King songs about camaraderie, like “Hakuna Matata,” it’s clear that “We Go Together” still has a long way to go.

5

Kelvin Harrison Jr. - betrayed brother

The last great song

“Irmão Betrayed” stands out as the only song in Mufasa: The Lion King score that is performed by a single cast member. Kelvin Harrison Jr., who voices Taka (later called Scar) in the film, delivered a powerful and moving performance that captured his character's inner turmoil. However, the bold delivery doesn't seem to have contributed much to the song's success, as “Brother Betrayed” didn't spark significant enthusiasm among fans.

Notably, in the context of the film, Harrison Jr.'s execution had a much stronger momentum than when heard alone. Introduced during a critical moment in the story when Taka comes to the conclusion that Mufasa betrayed him the music brings his feelings to life in a dramatic way, making the viewer even feel bad for him. So, despite not getting much love, “Brother Betrayed” is undoubtedly a good villain origin song.

4

Anika Noni Rose, Keith David - Milele

The first complete musical number

Despite being one of the most moving songs on Mufasa: The Lion King"Milele" didn't do much better than the other songs in terms of recognition. The music masterfully combines traditional African rhythms with modern musical theater elements. However, It's the story behind it that matters most.

Played by Anika Noni Rose and Keith David, who voice Afia and Masego, Mufasa's parents, “Milele” is about the duo sending their son to a better land in the midst of a horrible drought. In Swahili, “Milele” means “tomorrow”, symbolizing the hope of better days ahead and the eternal nature of life. If this sounds familiar, it's probably because “He Lives You,” the iconic 1994 song from the original Lion Kinghas a similar message. Again, while it's a solid song, “Milele” lacks some of the quintessential Disney charm that fans have come to expect.

3

Aaron Pierre, Tiffany Boone - Tell Me It's You

The ultimate love song

Finally breaking through, “Tell Me It's You” was praised for its heartfelt emotion and evocative tone by audiences and critics alike. Music infuses nostalgia Lion King feel in Mufasa: The Lion King soundtrackstanding out as one of the best in the new score.

The heartfelt duo is played by Aaron Pierre and Tiffany Boone, who voice Mufasa and Sarabi, respectively, as they begin to realize their growing feelings for each other. The song delves into their ever-deepening bond, elevating the already visually stunning scene during which it was introduced. As the two chase each other through icy caverns, they share their thoughts on love, trust, and destiny. In MufasaThe song marks a pivotal moment in which the two lions lay the foundation for their future as leaders of the Pride Lands.

2

Mufasa: The Lion King - Cast - Bye Bye

Kiros Villain Song

Despite receiving some mixed reviews, “Bye Bye” undoubtedly stands out as one of the best songs of 2024 Lion King installment. Even if not everyone is a fan, the song objectively marks a powerful bow introduction for Kiros, Mufasa antihero. Sung 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 rhythm.

While we still don't know his full story, Kiros looks set to become one of Disney's most brutal villains, especially since he's been given a full song to introduce himself to. After a period of relatively underwhelming villain songs, “Bye Bye” can certainly be described as a breath of fresh air in the Mufasa score. Furthermore, Mikkelsen's performance was one of his most appealing features, with fans and critics praising him.

1

Mufasa: The Lion King - Cast - I Always Wanted a Brother

A moving duet that celebrates new sisterhood

Overcoming the rest of Mufasa: The Lion King score, at least in terms of overwhelmingly positive feedback, “I Always Wanted A Brother” is a standout track. The catchy song fit perfectly into the film, becoming without a doubt one of the best songs in the entire series. Lion King series. Either way, it beautifully captured Mufasa and Taka's sibling relationship, making their later drama even more poignant. If any song in Mufasa could become as iconic as those in the original film, is “I Always Wanted A Brother”.

Performed by Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison Jr. with help from Braelyn Rankins and Theo Somolu, “I Always Wanted A Brother” was accompanied by an equally moving scene. As Mufasa and Taka run through the savannah, they tell each other how much they always wanted a brother, reflecting on their shared dreams and the beginning of their journey together. Notably, Taka's “Brother Betrayed” later begins like a reprise of “I Always Wanted A Brother,” creating a poignant full-circle moment in Mufasa: The Lion King.