*First line is the group name. 1961. This song has earned millions in royalties. It was written in 1939 in Zulu and titled Mbube. This version has been the most popular.The song has an almost hypnotic chant that can be likened to a lullabye. It's been covered by many over the years. Although the verses are sung in English, the primary word sung in the chorus is Zulu. This song would have been perfect on The Lion King soundtrack.