If you’re a fan of Disney’s The Lion King, you might remember how powerful the opening of the film was the first time you saw it. In addition to the stunning animation, it was when we were introduced to the “Circle of Life,” a song that still gives many of us chills.
There’s another version of “Circle of Life” that will likely steal your breath away too.
The performance below is from a star-studded charity event that took place in Rome’s Colosseum. It’s a duet between Sir Elton John and Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli of The Lion King classic, and it’s simply magnificent.
As you might remember, musician Elton John is the one who composed “Circle of Life” (the lyrics are by Tim Rice).
The event, called “Celebrity Fight Night,” was filled with other musical performances as well – which helped support the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center and the Andrea Bocelli Foundation. Artists like Steven Tyler, Chris Botti, and 2Cellos also entertained attendees at the fundraiser.
During one of the evening’s concerts, Elton John sat at a piano to perform a string of classic hits.
He treated everyone to live versions of “Tiny Dancer,” “Your Song,” and “Philadelphia Freedom.” Eventually, he was joined by Bocelli on stage for their duet.
It’s an unforgettable performance put on by two legends.
In the video, John begins by singing the lyrics of “Circle of Life” while Bocelli stands silently near his piano. Let’s just say his voice is as sublime as ever.
The film’s soundtrack had both the movie version on it, as well as John’s pop recording of “Circle of Life.” Interestingly, the tune itself was nominated for an Academy Award according to Songfacts, but lost to his other Lion King hit, “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.”
When it gets to the chorus Bocelli takes over.
But instead of singing the lyrics in English, he belts them out in his native language. The results are just beautiful and it’s a rare treat listening to them in Italian.
One viewer commented on YouTube:
“Wow – I never knew this performance existed! Two of my favorite performers – amazing performance! Love it!”
Elton John and Andrea Bocelli make an incredible pair.
Bocelli has performed duets with a wide variety of artists over the years – including Sarah Brightman, Celine Dion, Ed Sheeran, Barbra Streisand, and Ariana Grande. When it comes to singing on stage with John – they’re a phenomenal act.
Another person wrote:
“Wow, they sing very good together. Love them both!!!! It touches your soul and so much more than that.”
John takes over singing again while tickling the ivories.
He’s dressed in a modestly eye-catching outfit adorned with sparkles, which glitter in the spotlight. It’s difficult not to be mesmerized watching and listening to him perform – especially when it’s a moving song like “Circle of Life.”
The ending is spectacular.
Bocelli sings the final words of the song in English, holding his high-note for a long time. A viewer wrote:
“Beautiful and the end … Bocelli … what a voice … What gifts they have given to our world… forever”
It’s a fantastic duet you don’t want to miss. Really, can you imagine what it would have been like to of witnessed this in person?
Watch the video below to see Elton John and Andrea Bocelli’s live cover of “Circle of Life” for yourself!
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