The Tokens is a Brooklyn vocal group that formed in the late 1950s and quickly gained attention for its smooth harmonies and falsetto-driven sound.
Originally a doo-wop act, they brought a polished, radio-friendly energy to early pop music with their blend of folk, pop, and doo-wop elements. While best known for “The Lion Sleeps Tonight,” they also had hits like “Tonight I Fell In Love” and worked behind the scenes with artists like Bob Dylan.
About the Song
The Lion Sleeps Tonight is a timeless pop classic from 1961 known for its dreamy jungle vibe, falsetto vocals, and iconic “Wimoweh” chant. Originally based on the 1939 South African song “Mbube” by Solomon Linda, it underwent multiple adaptations before its change into the Tokens’ version.
Based on Solomon Linda’s 1939 song “Mbube” it reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and stayed there for three weeks.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | November 17, 1961 |
| Album | Monkey Vendor* (2016) |
| Writers | Solomon Linda, George David Weiss, Hugo Peretti, Luigi Creatore |
| Producers | Hugo Peretti & Luigi Creatore |
The Lion Sleeps Tonight Lyrics
Refrain
Wee-hee-hee-hee, dee hee-hee-hee-hee
Wee-oh aweem away
Wee-hee-hee-hee, dee hee-hee-hee-hee
Wee-oh aweem away
Chorus
A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh
A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh
A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh
A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh
Verse 1
In the jungle, the mighty jungle
The lion sleeps tonight
In the jungle, the quiet jungle
The lion sleeps tonight (Ho, ho)
Chorus
Wee-hee-hee-hee (A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Wee-oh aweem away (A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Wee-hee-hee-hee (A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Wee-oh aweem away (A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Verse 2
Near the village, the peaceful village
The lion sleeps tonight
Near the village, the quiet village
The lion sleeps tonight (Hey, hey)
Chorus
Wee-hee-hee-hee (A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Wee-oh aweem away (A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Rrr, la-la-la-ba (A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Wee-oh aweem away (A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Bridge
Oh-oh-oh-oh
Oh-oh-oh-oh
Oh-oh-oh-oh
Oh-oh-oh-oh
Oh-oh-oh-oh
Verse 3
Hush, my darling, don’t fear, my darling
The lion sleeps tonight
Hush, my darling, don’t fear, my darling
The lion sleeps tonight (Ho, ho)
Chorus
Woah, woah, woah, woah, woah, woah (A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Woah, woah, aweem away (A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Wee-hee-hee, hee-hee-hee (A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Wee-oh aweem away (A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Refrain
Wee-hee-hee-hee, dee hee-hee-hee-hee
Wee-oh aweem away
Wee-hee-hee-hee, dee hee-hee-hee-hee
Wee-oh aweem away
Wee-hee-hee-hee, dee hee
Similar Songs Like The Lion Sleeps Tonight
The following songs are similar to The Lion Sleeps Tonight reflecting the style and themes of The Tokens’ songs.
- “Tonight I Fell In Love“: A cheerful love song from 1961 that perfectly captures the feeling of falling for someone new. With its smooth harmonies and catchy rhythm, it climbed to #15 on the Billboard Hot 100.
- “I Hear Trumpets Blow“: With its romantic tone, rich vocals, and orchestral style, this 1966 track tells the story of love hitting fast and strong.
- “Portrait of My Love“: Released in 1967, this gentle song paints a beautiful picture of someone admired from the heart.
Similar Artists Like The Tokens
Here are some similar artists to The Tokens, along with their genres and notable albums:
- Harry Belafonte
Genre: Calypso, Folk
Notable Albums: Calypso (1956), Belafonte Sings of the Caribbean (1957) - Ben E. King
Genre: Soul, R&B, Doo-wop
Notable Albums: Spanish Harlem (1961), Don’t Play That Song! (1962) - The Skyliners
Genre: Doo-wop, Pop
Notable Albums: The Skyliners (1962), Once Upon a Time (1965) - The Flamingos
Genre: Doo-wop, R&B
Notable Albums: Flamingo Serenade (1959), Requestfully Yours (1960) - The Moonglows
Genre: Doo-wop, R&B
Notable Albums: Look, It’s the Moonglows (1958), The Moonglows Sing (1959)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Lion Sleeps Tonight Inspired by Traditional Stories?
It draws from African musical traditions and symbols, with the lion often representing strength and leadership.
Was There Any Controversy About the Song?
Yes, Solomon Linda wasn’t properly credited or paid, leading to legal action years later.
Do Solomon Linda’s Heirs Receive Royalties Now?
After legal efforts, his family now receives royalties from certain versions of the song.
