If you think you know everything about Lebo M, think again. The legendary South African composer has one of the most fascinating journeys in global music. Here are 21 surprising facts about the man behind some of the world’s most iconic sounds.
1. His Real Name Might Surprise You
Lebo M was born Lebohang Morake in Soweto, Johannesburg.
2. He Started Performing at Just 9 Years Old
He left school early and began performing music professionally while still a child.
3. First Recording at 13
He recorded his first single at just 13—and earned only $20 for it.
4. He Went Into Exile as a Teen
During apartheid, he moved to Lesotho at age 15 to pursue music opportunities.
5. He Was Discovered by a Diplomat
Lesotho’s ambassador to the U.S. helped him get into the Duke Ellington School of the Arts.
6. He Studied in the United States
He later attended Los Angeles City College while chasing his music dreams.
7. He Struggled Before Success
In Los Angeles, he worked odd jobs just to survive while building his career.
8. A Chance Meeting Changed His Life
Meeting Hans Zimmer helped launch his Hollywood career.
9. He Co-Created Music for The Power of One
His collaboration with Zimmer on the film soundtrack opened many doors.
10. He Is the Voice Behind The Lion King Opening
That powerful Zulu chant in The Lion King? That’s Lebo M.
11. He Won a Grammy
The Lion King soundtrack earned global awards, including a Grammy.
12. He Helped Create the Stage Musical
He contributed to the Broadway version of The Lion King, which earned a Tony nomination.
13. He Founded His Own Company
He started Till Dawn Entertainment, building his own legacy in music production.
14. He Created an African Choir for Disney
Lebo M formed and conducted the choir that gave The Lion King its authentic African sound.
15. He Worked on Multiple Hollywood Films
He contributed to films like Outbreak, Congo, and Born to Be Wild.
16. He Performs on Global Stages
He has performed at major international events, including global ceremonies.
17. Music Runs in the Family
His daughter Refi is also a singer and often performs alongside him.
18. His Personal Life Has Been Public
He has been married several times and has lived both in South Africa and the U.S.
19. He Returned Home After Apartheid
He came back to South Africa in the early 1990s to reconnect with his roots.
20. He’s Still Working on The Lion King Universe
He is involved in new projects like Mufasa: The Lion King, alongside Lin-Manuel Miranda.
21. He Made Headlines in 2026
He reportedly filed a lawsuit over a joke involving Circle of Life, showing he protects his work seriously.
Final Thoughts
Lebo M is more than just a musician—he is a global cultural icon who brought African sound to Hollywood. From humble beginnings in Soweto to international fame, his journey proves that talent, resilience, and opportunity can change everything.