In a recent interview with Variety, Lin-Manuel Miranda talked about the creative process for Mufasa: The Lion King by revealing the film’s musical landscape. Miranda, best known for his work on Halimton and Encanto, collaborated closely with director Barry Jenkins to create songs that honor the legacy of the original Lion King while still introducing fresh elements.   

Mads Mikkelsen’s character performed the villain anthem Bye Bye Miranda, revealing that the song was not originally part of the script. Still, he pitched it to Jenkins with the idea of creating a “dancehall villain song” that could add not only depth but also persona to the antagonist. Miranda said he had watched Mikkelsen sing The Pajama Game from his early career to be sure this song would be a good fit for Mikkelsen, and in the end, Miranda felt it was. 

Two significant pieces are the song Milele, which means forever in Swahili, which is sung by Mufasa’s parents. This song went through significant development because it was said that Miranda drew his inspiration from spirituals to capture the essence. Also, the song I Always Wanted a Brother, which young Mufasa and Taka perform, shows the bond created, which Mariada expresses to Variety, was inspired by his sons. 

Miranda also talked about Tell Me It’s You, which is the romantic ballad between Mufasa and Sarabi that was supposed to serve as a spiritual successor to Can You Feel The Love Tonight. Miranda wanted to emulate the style of the hit song while also keeping 90s R&B by utilizing the reverb to enhance the song’s setting within an ice cavern. 

Miranda expresses that through this composition process, he collaborated with Dace Metzger, a composer, and South African artist Lebo M to integrate African choral elements to help ensure the soundtrack resonates with authenticity and cultural richness. Miranda expressed admiration for the franchise’s musical heritage and staging, “The Lion King has an incredible musical legacy with music by some of the greatest composers around, and I am humbled and proud to be a part of it.”

Mufasa: The Lion King has a soundtrack that honors the predecessor and introduces an innovative musical narrative that reflects on the collaborative efforts of its creative team.