Main content

The struggle of Soweto's 'Lion King'

It was a long road to the recording studio for Lebo M who wrote songs for the hit Disney movie and stage adaptation.

Born under apartheid and in poverty, South African composer Lebo M grew up loving music and became a performer at a young age. His talent took him on a tumultuous journey from Soweto to Hollywood. As he worked on the music for Disney's hit animation 'The Lion King' and as apartheid came to an end in South Africa, the story of those lions fighting for their kingdom took on a whole new relevance to him.

Presenter: Emily Webb
Producer: Harry Graham

Picture: Lebo M attends "The Lion King" On Broadway 15th Anniversary Celebration
Credit: Getty Images, J. Countess

Release date:

Available now

24 minutes

Podcast