The Stellenbosch University Choir’s rendition of Elton John’s ‘The Circle of Life’ has surpassed a million views!
Global (19 March 2025) – Late last year, the Stellenbosch University Choir sprinkled some serious local magic to transform the already stellar ‘The Circle of Life’ (originally by Elton John) into another rendition that couldn’t help but capture the world and leave us all with goosebumps.
With isiZulu worked into the lyrics of the verses, the song (famously created for The Lion King) came to life in a whole new way as arranged and conducted by André van der Merwe.
Like the original, their rendition captures the magic, mystery and warmth of existence in an ethereal ode to the natural world and Africa. But, through the power of the isiZulu language, they gave the song even more African authenticity, capturing sentiments of the song so loved in a heritage-proud progression.
Now, after only three months having passed since the video of the Stellenbosch University Choir’s version was posted on YouTube, the choir is celebrating a massive milestone. The video of their performance in the University’s Endler Hall, has surpassed a million views!
If we consider that maybe a couple hundred people might listen to a choir’s performance in an auditorium, this number of views is the equivalent of around ten thousand auditoriums(from all over the world) all tuning in to hear the rendition.
A celebrated and award-winning choir who are no strangers to big moments, this level of viewership joins a unique tier of achievements for South African music.
If you haven’t already, this rendition is a must-hear. Listen to it below.
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