Renowned composer, singer, songwriter, and music producer Lebohang ‘Lebo M’ Morake is set to make musical history with his first-ever live concert, ‘The Voice & Spirit of Lion King’, featuring a star-studded global ensemble, from April 11 to 13, 2025.
The highly anticipated event will showcase a magnificent collaboration with the 45-piece Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, the 25-piece Soweto Spiritual Choir, and the vibrant Ndlovu Youth Choir.
Joining Morake on stage will be celebrated singer-songwriters Nkosinathi Shabalala and Refi Sings.
This marks a momentous occasion not only for him but also for the global music community, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the beloved Disney classic, ‘The Lion King’, and ahead of the upcoming prequel, ‘Mufasa’, set for worldwide release in December.
Morake is widely recognised for his profound contribution to ‘The Lion King’ most notably for writing, arranging, and performing the iconic Zulu chant “Nants’ Ingonyama”, which opens the classic hit song ‘The Circle of Life’.
This groundbreaking work earned him, along with composer Hans Zimmer, a Grammy Award and significantly bolstered his standing as a cultural ambassador. His artistry has reshaped the narrative surrounding African music, placing South African rhythms and languages on a global stage.
“The acclaimed music sensation expressed his excitement, reaffirming the deep roots of his music in South African culture. My music is – and always will be – rooted in home soil. I couldn’t be more excited about staging my first live concert season in Cape Town next year.”
The exciting live production will take place at the Artscape Opera House. Audiences can look forward to an array of enchanting performances, including surprise guest artists from South Africa, to be unveiled soon.
Morake’s news comes as Walt Disney Records reveals its December 13 release date of the songs only and deluxe versions of Disney’s ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ original motion picture soundtrack.
The soundtrack features original compositions by Grammy, Tony, and Emmy Award winner Lin-Manuel Miranda, with additional contributions from Lebo M, promising an innovative blend of musical styles that pay homage to both ‘The Lion King’ legacy and the vibrant South African music scene.
The Star