<P> `` Circle of Life '' is a song from Disney 's 1994 animated film The Lion King . Composed by Elton John , with lyrics by Tim Rice , the song was performed by Carmen Twillie ( the deep female lead vocals ) and Lebo M. ( opening Zulu vocals ) as the film 's opening song . In an interview , Rice said he was amazed at the speed with which John composed : `` I gave him the lyrics at the beginning of the session at about two in the afternoon . By half - past three , he 'd finished writing and recording a stunning demo . '' Elton John sang a pop version ( with alternative lyrics ) of the song with the London Community Gospel Choir , which was included in the film 's soundtrack and made into a music video . `` Circle of Life '' was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Song in 1994 , along with two other songs from The Lion King : `` Hakuna Matata '' and `` Can You Feel the Love Tonight '' which won the award . </P>
<P> `` Circle of Life '' is a song from Disney 's 1994 animated film The Lion King . Composed by Elton John , with lyrics by Tim Rice , the song was performed by Carmen Twillie ( the deep female lead vocals ) and Lebo M. ( opening Zulu vocals ) as the film 's opening song . In an interview , Rice said he was amazed at the speed with which John composed : `` I gave him the lyrics at the beginning of the session at about two in the afternoon . By half - past three , he 'd finished writing and recording a stunning demo . '' Elton John sang a pop version ( with alternative lyrics ) of the song with the London Community Gospel Choir , which was included in the film 's soundtrack and made into a music video . `` Circle of Life '' was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Song in 1994 , along with two other songs from The Lion King : `` Hakuna Matata '' and `` Can You Feel the Love Tonight '' which won the award . </P>
who sang circle of life in the original lion king
who sang circle of life in the original lion king
Carmen Twillie ( the deep female lead vocals ) Lebo M. ( opening Zulu vocals )
Carmen Twillie ( the deep female lead vocals ) Lebo M. ( opening Zulu vocals )