
John began to perform "Circle of Life", replacing " Can You Feel the Love Tonight", in some of his concerts, shows and performances from 1999 to 2018. In United States, music critics praised the song's structure and its message, however in the United Kingdom, music critics' reviews on this song was mixed. However, the new version also retains the original Zulu opening vocals by Lebo M. This new version of the song was performed by Brown Lindiwe Mkhize, the actress who performed as Rafiki in the stage adaptation of the movie in London from 2005 to 2018. The song was featured in Disney's 2019 photorealistic computer-animated remake of The Lion King and was used in the first trailer of the film, a near shot-for-shot remake of the opening of the original animated film.

Michael Crawford sang it as part of a medley for The Disney Album in 2001.

18 in the US and is featured frequently in attractions based on The Lion King, such as Disney theme parks and parades. "Circle of Life" was also nominated for a Song of the Year Grammy. "Circle of Life" was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1994, along with two other songs from The Lion King: " Hakuna Matata" and " Can You Feel the Love Tonight", the latter of which won the award. 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. 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.

(opening vocals in Zulu) as the film's opening song. Composed by English musician Elton John, with lyrics by Tim Rice, the song was performed by Carmen Twillie (the deep female lead vocals) and Lebo M. " Circle of Life" is a song from Disney's 1994 animated film The Lion King. "Circle of Life" (Elton John / Pop version) on YouTube
