I COMPLETELY LOST IT! The Tokens - The Lion Sleeps Tonight (Wimoweh) REACTION

#music
#reaction
#100k

[@subwaygoddess1]

Oh James! What a beautiful memory that your grandpa sang this to you!! And how special that your grandpa asked you to react to it! ✌️🎶💙

[@Nefarioso]

Absolutely! Great story. Certainly no need to apologize for pausing it. Glad you are okay today.

[@jaygeecee13]

We are all so glad you recovered! You are such fun to watch. Yes, we oldsters loved the original back in the day! Which is why your Grandpa sang it to you!

[@boxerpaws55]

this song sounds good years later doesn't it?

[@willmorrison1022]

@@boxerpaws55 So many of them do, don't they? Those of us in the 60-80 age range lived through the best time for American pop music ever. I hear things like this and am constantly amazed at what GREAT music we had. All that 50's stuff, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Elvis, all those guys, then the 60's and the Beatles, the Stones, Motown, Elvis and all those guys, and then the 70's with the solo Beatles, all the KILLER music we had, Elvis, all those guys. Seriously, though, it was the best time for music. And then Reagan told the lawyers to go around and steal everything of value and turn everything into profit points, and music went downhill and essentially died. We lived through the best. And it DOES still sound great.

[@franl155]

Music is a magical doorway: it can take you instantly to another country, another place, another time, transporting you to long-"forgotten" realms in a split second and bring them vividly to life. I'm so sorry to hear about your accident, but so pleased the doctors were wrong!

[@davidwalters8214]

Hi

[@marshag9360]

What a wonderful explanation of how music moves each of us and carries us places. Great comment.

[@bebic7903]

What a wonderfully incredible and sentimental reaction! You look like a little kid in a candy store. 😊 A real and truthful response. And it's so joyful to watch. Bless you and your grandpa!

[@m.l.b.2908]

My depression has been horrendous since contracting Covid. I don't really need help in that department because I have bipolar disorder, but hey, that's the world we live in right now. Your reactions had me laughing, crying, and feeling a deep sense of wonder. Given the significance of this song for you in your memory, this all makes you a miracle to me. Thank you so much.

[@cynthiamgrooms8195]

I’d say Stay Strong, but who in the Hell can maintain THAT!!! Do You, with as many people and animals that you need to get through this Moment In Time, bc after the Worst, comes the Best!!! You are Valuable.🙏

[@m.l.b.2908]

@@cynthiamgrooms8195 Thanks, Cynthia. You're so right about the reality of maintaining "be strong"! I actually laughed a little at that, haha. I truly appreciate that you took the time to reply.

[@roxannekean6025]

I have found that music is the best and safest medicine for depression.

[@walterpanovs]

This was actually an Anglicized version of an old African (Zulu) folk song by Solomon Linda, original title "Mbube" which was later re-titled "Wimoweh" and recorded many times. The lyrics were finally Americanized for this 1961 hit that you just played. That African melody is undeniable and memorable. I think after many years of legal battles Solomon Linda finally received a songwriting credit and his family began to earn royalties for the use of his original song's musical base.

[@jeffreyetherton3185]

They actually only won the case in the last few years!! This version is so damn close to the original Soliman version

[@jackndan6603]

Thanks for that,really interesting!!😀🇨🇦

[@edprzydatek8398]

I believe I read that Disney paid them $1.9 million for the rights to the song for "The Lion King". Solomon Linda had passed by then.

[@coy0te9]

Pete Seeger said years later the only thing in his long career as a folk musician he was ashamed of was having anything to do with Wimoweh without knowing about Solomon Linda and insisting he get paid.

[@willmorrison1022]

@@coy0te9 I can believe that. Pete was a good man, almost folk music's Mr Rogers.

[@Caperhere]

I’m glad you recovered from that accident, and bless your grandfather for singing to you to comfort his little grandson.

[@stephenhowell834]

That’s the thing with music, it takes you back in time to a unforgettable place. Your face and gestures made us feel your amazement/joy/wonder and gratitude. 👍👍❤️

[@flapkatt6094]

That was some weird stuff. trying to be PC. It usually doesn't work for me.

[@HappyOne3]

Oh wow! this makes me happy that you found the origins and source of your grandpa singing this to you. What a beloved man!

[@dagmar.6954]

The Tokens were an American male doo-wop style vocal group. They are best known for their 1961 hit "The Lion Sleeps Tonight". They also had some other songs such as "Tonight I Fell In Love", "I Hear Trumpets Blow" & "Portrait Of My Love". Beginning in 1963, The Tokens also began serving as record producers for other artists, such as the Chiffons, Randy & the Rainbows & the Happenings.

[@marymargaretmoore9034]

A classic! Have this '45 somewhere. Yeah, they also played it in Lion King. So sweet that your grandpa used to sing this to you.

[@rowenanunn590]

Your joy is so infectious 🇦🇺✌️❣️

[@Barb5001]

Yeah it is said to be originally an old African song...... and, The Tokens just did their version of it, which became a huge hit for them. The one who originally wrote this newer version called it “Wimoweh”, a misheard version of the original chorus “Uyimbube” (“you are the lion”). Of course , The Tokens used the misheard "Wimoweh" in their version also

[@ptaylor4923]

I'm 70. This came out when I was in grade school and yes, the memories really take me back. I think it's a song so uniquely powerful it takes everyone back to a specific place and time.

[@k_salter]

Your story about your grandpa singing this to you, I believe, will leave me with the "feels" now every time I hear this. Glad you made it thru, cuz look at you!!

[@cherylsyoutubies]

lol......a real blast from your past, huh James? That was fun!!! Amazing how your grandfather's version got stuck in your memory.

[@marieogara1036]

This was played on Irish radio nearly every day when I was a child. Love it -- the harmonies and falsetto seemed incredible, and still do. Love that you are remembering it.

[@theresareynolds3133]

Don’t be sorry for pausing this, I’m so glad you made it and you can walk, this is such a fun song, I’m loving your reaction

[@deborahdanhauer8525]

You look so happy! What a great memory with your Grandfather. Wow, you’ve been through so much sweety. We’re glad you made it and your here!🐝🤗❤️

[@flyer34sparky]

All the members are still alive and they sound the same! Check them out they have a recent video! God Bless my friend!

[@vincentsablan732]

That, sir, was a BEAUTIFUL story!!! If he sang this to you while you were in recovery from a terrible accident, you may have missed the point...YOU were the lion...

[@williamcrane1913]

The Tokens did a good job with this translation of the old South African song. I had a recording of this by the legendary South African singer, Mariam Makeba, many years ago. I think it was titled "Mbmbe" (loosely pronounced as "wimoweh.")

[@boblozaintherealworld3577]

Yikes. I remember her. Thanks.

[@Caperhere]

I’ve found two stories. The first was a comment. Someone said it honours a Zulu tribal leader named Shaka who had bravely fought the British. He was killed in battle, but it was believed he would rise again ( shades of the Christ resurrection) to save his people. He was their Lion. The other story is explained by Marian Makeba. Before performing it live in 1963, she mentions its popularity in the US, and that it was about a real lion, rather than Shaka The Lion. Marian has other songs on KZbin, which I’m off to hear. Either way, here is a performance of her singing it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hWK1fqF4eZqhm8k Uploader Spiked Candy. There is also a recording of the original singer. James may find the Graceland album by Paul Simon of interest. It was performed in South Africa, with South African singers. As far as I remember, our musicians were boycotting South African concerts, to apply pressure on the government’s apartheid policies. Paul Simon took a different approach. He went over and performed with local musicians, and all races were allowed to attend. I have the DVD, and it’s probably on KZbin. More on Mariam Makeba. Spiked Candy uploaded her performance of the Click Song. The first comment explains just what a brave, talented person she was.

[@moogie1954]

I've told my sons that this is one of the songs I want played at my funeral! It makes people smile and even the most stoic and solemn person can't help but sway to the music a little! One of the other songs is Monty Python's "Galaxy Song"!

[@eddieevans6692]

I'll second that recommendation for the "Galaxy Song." It's been on my playlist for years.

[@coyotej4895]

I remember this from when I was a baby. I was told it was an African lullaby. Whatever it is they have provided millions with wonderful memories and entertainment with this song.

[@Karen-dc3cg]

Music is amazing, it just feels your mind with memories.... Thank you for sharing.

[@rebeccataylor8981]

I loved your squealy "I can't take this!" flailing when the awesomeness just became too much. ;D

[@armadillotoe]

This song has been popular two or maybe 3 times in my life. It is a very unique but beautiful song.

[@debbers]

That is a wonderful memory, thank you for sharing it with us! I have many tender memories of my grandparents! I went fishing with Grandpa and Grandma every Sunday all through my childhood and continued fishing with them as an adult, I was fortunate that they lived to 91 for him and 99 for her! Even though your Grandpa couldn't sing it as well, I bet you loved it at the time! If you see your Grandpa I'd play the song and both of you sing along with it! That would be yet another fabulous memory to treasure! FABULOUS reaction!

[@Jackmack365]

James you’re obvious joy at hearing this is contagious and beautiful to observe.🙏🏼🇬🇧

[@Prozak63]

Beautiful story and shows how we can overcome our biggest challenges. And love to your grandfather for being there with you.

[@robincompton6887]

When you smile, you light my soul!You make me smile❤️

[@sergeantcalmdown]

Brother......you made this "Reaction" extra special with your personal words & facial reactions to this song knowing you were hit by a car & hospitalized for a long time as a kid. Your Grandfather was EPIC to sing this to you. Thank you!!!!

[@kennethohnemus3192]

Bro, the look on your face and in your eyes speaks volumes about you. It warms my heart seeing the joy in your eyes.

[@lisarooney6930]

Love this one!❤️

[@dkristine6569]

I am SO glad that you have recovered from the car accident! What an incredible story of what you overcame with the accident. You bring such joy to the world. Many blessings to you.

[@gh9111]

Definitely an iconic crazy song we all know.

[@kathleenmayhorne3183]

Your grandad needs a huge hug for that one. Singing that to you no matter how not well done, showed his love for you.

[@JBLETHALTV]

We joked about it , we have that kind of relationship we’re we joke on each other a lot ❤️ I love him and appreciate him always

[@ronstevens4009]

What a perfect reaction! I love that you remember that from your grandfather, as I grew up with this song and just love it so much. Yes, those vocals are insane, the lady doing the loud background vocal is spectacular, and the lead singer doing the high note melody is so very talented! I am so glad you heard this version!

[@pamelascott5702]

This was the first 45 I had. I was 7 years old and my daddy had purchased me a record player. I listened to it over and over again. I thought I was da bomb. Lol. When The Lion King came out, I smiled when I heard it. And then, enough more when I caught my son at 5 years old singing it randomly.

[@SRG1966]

The background vocals were done by a female opera singer who knew the band. She did it for free, and even after they made a fortune with the song, they never paid her a dime.

[@pattisimmons67]

This was so beautiful. You had me in tears seeing you react so emotional. Your Grandpa is a good man. Much love and many hugs to both of you!

[@cookingartguy2170]

Our friend Luigi co-wrote this song. Also "I Can't Help Falling in Love With You", which was recorded by Elvis amongst others.

[@theresadaly3762]

What a nice memory that your Grandpa sang this song to you as a kid! I remember it! Love the happiness in it! I play it often! There is a funny version of it with 3 policemen in their police car singing this, and their facial reactions are hysterical! There is another video of them singing it as they got older too, and it was still great! Thanks, James! Xo xo

[@tommymacdaddy69]

Such a surprisingly mixed blessing this song was eh? Thank God you've got such a special relationship with your grandfather! Your grandfather sounds like a very special man, I dare say you probably take after him.♥️

[@jaredhowe2847]

Watch this live with the Tokens in a Revival Doo-Wop concert.

[@helenbirch5719]

How fabulous!

[@katebc9148]

Hush my darling, don’t fear my darling…that is what your grandpa was singing to you..a message of hope when you were hurt. HOW wonderful!!!!

[@burnout_2017]

Well grandpa might not have had their voice james.....but he sure knows a great song when he hears one. Im sure he knew back then that it helped to ease your pain, thus he sung it like an angel would have for his little guy. Peace brother and give your gramps a call....ill bet your voice sounds like an angel to him

[@greg2976]

God Bless You!!!! This reaction brought tears to this 62 year old man! I loved this song when I was young! To see how you are touched by your Grandpa singing this to you, Is so beyond words! you are a Blessing to be healed by God! thank you!

[@scottdebruyn7038]

Song came out in 1961... It was my 1st 45RPM record! Now, I don't recall (I was 2 when it came out), but my brother may have given it to me after he tired of it. Even so, I know I nearly wore that recording out when I was 4 to 6 y/o! I'd have to look, but I may still have it around here somewhere .Great to hear it and glad you like it too! :)

[@ediefolta9494]

Yes! They used this in "The Lion King" too! So glad this took you back to your grandpa's love and care for you.

[@TheNeonRabbit]

The original version was written and recorded by Solomon Linda under the title "Mbube" for the South African Gallo Record Company in 1939.

[@sharonjarrett8953]

I love the old Classics music 😊

[@eskayh7734]

That's a hell of a story JB. Glad you made it and are still here today. xx This song pops in my head from time to time as a huge Lion King fan since childhood.

[@irishfergal]

Awesome reaction! I remember that my Dad would turn the radio volume up when this song came on, and he motioned for me to join in the chorus, so being only six, I was able to hit the high notes badly, but not too badly. This song has nostalgia for many many people!!!

[@timm3792]

The song was penned in 1939 as Mbube and was written in Zulu - this adopted version was 1961 - that's 61 years of being heard. Great Reaction. Thanks

[@anny1_232]

Oh bless your heart! Your reactions are always so genuine! ❤️

[@lupemartinez7562]

What a blessing for all of us that you survived your injuries.

[@BarbaraPryor-Smith]

How beautiful and meaningful is that memory! This was recorded in 1961! But believe it or not. They still perform it and sound exactly the same!!!!!!!

[@patriciacullen7328]

James, the moment you realized that you knew this song, your face completely changed. You were back in hospital as a little boy with your Grandpa singing to you. It was amazing to see that. Love to you and to Grandpa who deserves a big hug and kiss. God bless you both!

[@757optim]

Grandpa might not be able to sing it like a whole group of super talented singers, but he gave you a connection that is super cool. Way to go Grandpa.

[@jackndan6603]

Wow what an amazing Grampa!!! Cool story,glad your here!😊🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@oldschool72]

You and your Grandpa must have a very close bond, you speak so lovingly of him and your Grandma so often.

[@michaelcoleman6228]

This song is based on Mbube by Solamen Linda recorded in I think 1930. Its sung in the Zulu language. I'd like to see what you think of it.

[@Thatgirl1973]

Your Grandpa is obviously an amazing guy, with a great taste in music! I love this reaction so much! So much! ❤❤❤❤

[@golden454]

Music heals 💜 to you and your grandfather. Awesome memories with this song for me too. My dad mangled it too, but thats the love and memories of music, family.🎵💜☮️

[@berndschuster1547]

Thank you from Germany for "the lion sleeps tonight"...What a wonderful song all time!

[@debraricciardi2958]

I haven’t heard this song in ages. Love it, it’s a classic!! I just want say that all you’ve been through with getting hit by the car and beating the odds of what the Dr’s said and making it through that horrible time in the hospital with Covid. God has big plans for your life. There’s a reason you’re still here and you are a shining light in the mist of all this darkness in the world, so keep shining bright 🌟

[@woodedlane]

Every time I hear this song, I remember sitting in my grandmother's rocking chair in the living room listening to this. I was 9 years old when it was first released.

[@SuperDutchjohn]

Your grandfather loved you and you picked it up, one of the reasons you walk again, keep that in mind!! Music heals, your grandpa knew, you should be on your knees for him!! Thumbs up from The Netherlands!!

[@terri348]

Your grand dad is telling you to be strong and fight whatever adversity is going on in your life now! What a blessing!!

[@LordEagle]

The memory of your grandfather is what it's ALL ABOUT!!!! It's a good song for rekindling memories. 👍👍👍😎

[@tarbender1979]

You made me cry bud. Those GOOD tears! Thank you.

[@neilphelan145]

This came out when I was 6 years old. It immediately caught my attention. I'll never tire of hearing it.

[@waltw4537]

Glad you are here, man. That was one cool grandpa!!

[@amandathibodeau4996]

Oh you poor baby! I'm a mother of one son who had a severe childhood illness and I can imagine the pain you mom went through.

[@binslick1000]

The vocals, the harmony. Indeed perfection.

[@wendyshores6771]

Yay!I love this song! It's so happy! Its great to have you back James!!! So glad you were ok after the car accident! Nice to see it bring back mostly good memories...

[@kishka7]

You got me laughing and crying BRO!! Glad you're around to spread a little love and happiness!!!! THERE'S ALWAYS A REASON!!!

[@jenniferjacobs228]

And obviously your dear Grandpa loved the song also and probably kept you calm and feeling loved by singing to you. Bless him.

[@headache1959]

that song was your grandpas prayer for you, and it worked!

[@timothywoodruff4846]

The pure absolute joy on his face is priceless.

[@lindawalker161]

Great song! Loved it when it came out and love it still. You suggest leaving it to the pros, but I tell you, this song is so fun to sing when you have enough of your friends and family that you can fill out the parts. Everyone loves to join in and it can get goofy, but you'll all be smiling at the end. Grab your Grandpa, he'll get it started! What a wonderful memory of your Grandpa and so grateful he was there for you at a time when you really needed him.

[@sharonporter7132]

That you recuperated, that you are here now and that your Grandpa sang this to you in the hospital was the very best story I have, and ever will hear, concerning this song.❤❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@eddiehansen6865]

It cracked me up with his expression when he recognized the song, but brought tears to my eyes when explained how he knew the song.

[@larrystuder8543]

dude-- you don't have to apologize for stopping the song. A memory and a reaction that powerful is a wonderful thing to share. Thank you for sharing it with. US .

[@lolamagenta]

your grandpa wanted you to be strong like the lion and you were.

[@tubularap]

What impressive and beautiful memories from you. Thanks for sharing.

[@user-qw5op9ov8q]

This is the English translation of a South African song called "Mbube," which wound up as "Wimoweh".

[@annetterivers2745]

It's how our generation built memories for our grandchildren. You will always remember. You bring tears to my eyes. Jesus loves you.

[@johannesvalterdivizzini1523]

Good fortune that you are here. That's a beautiful memory about your Grandpa. My grandparents used to sing to me--my Sicilian grandfather was a virtuoso on guitar and mandolin, playing and singing Italian songs and his wife, my Austrian born grandmother, sang to me in German. Yes, I hear those songs and I am brought back. It's a wonderful legacy to have those traditions. (to my way of thinking, their versions were as real, expressive and significant as any professional singers could have been). Thanks for sharing the memory with us.

[@victormartinez5580]

The light in your eyes when you recognized the song was amazing. I'm happy for you and the memories.

[@lynnecawley2444]

James, you are so wonderful! Your Grandpa gave you some beautiful memories and you shared them with the world. I appreciate you and your expressive face and heart. Bless you, Dear One❤️

[@rebeccataylor8981]

AWEEMAWAPAWEEMAWAPAWEEMAWAPAWEEMAWAP...the warthog and meerkat sang it in Disney's "The Lion King" movie...WEEEEEE-EE-EE-EE-EE-EEMUMUMAWAY ~ahem~ ...sorry, what were we talking about?

[@cathyhetzel5944]

We are happy your here too. Your grandfather is smiling from heaven. He's letting you know he's watching over you!

[@thattiktokguy]

Your love and respect for your grandparents is inspiring in this day and time. You are a jewel among young men today.

[@WilliB1969]

That was the single best reason I have ever seen anyone pause a song ever. Your grandpa is awesome for doing that. He was telling you that you were strong like a lion and that you would get past your injuries. No apologies were needed, that was excellent and everything people should appreciate in a song reaction; a personal connection to a song that was important to your life.

[@nikoknightpuppetproduction369]

Hello, my first time to see one of your videos. I love your reaction and glad you enjoyed the song so much. I am very glad that you survived and over came that car accident from your young childhood. Keep up the great work and stay positive.

[@nickihoyt9911]

love the joy on your face as you remember something precious. You should call your Granddaddy.

[@maryerpenbach9517]

Lol! I had no business singing it to my grandson either, but it was the first song I sang to him when he came home after being born. I hope he remembers it as fondly as you do.

[@Caperhere]

I don’t know if it was translated properly from the original language, but here it is a song of comfort. Imagine yourself in a village at the edge of a jungle long ago. Black night, except for the fire. Imagine the blaze of stars in that isolated village. The singer is comforting a child. Hush, the lion will not harm you tonight. The lion sleeps tonight, he doesn’t hunt. It’s been a long time since I’ve had goosebumps from a song, but I had them when you reacted to the singing. Your grandfather must love you very much.