Both things are representative of the impact and popularity of the original film’s music, which plays a hugely important role. From the first frame and that now iconic opening sequence, featuring Lebo M’s inimitable vocal, to the last, it’s a story carried by music. Zimmer’s Oscar was actually for his original Lion King score (awarded at the ceremony in 1995), the same year the original soundtrack album went 10x Platinum. Article: Four of the best John Williams recordings.
It’s true to say that there is a celebratory zeal to the performances by the orchestra, singers and instrumentalists. Zimmer is said to have agreed to the return after he ‘rediscovered’ the music whilst on his recent concert tours and wanted the recording to capture the joy of the live experience.
