Who wrote the lyrics for the songs in the original film?

Tim Rice wrote the lyrics for the songs in the original film.

Rice served as lyricist for The Lion King's principal original songs, working with composer Elton John. Their collaboration produced “Circle of Life,” “I Just Can't Wait to Be King,” “Be Prepared,” “Hakuna Matata” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.”

Rice was invited to develop songs for the film while Disney was shaping its musical identity. He suggested Elton John as his composing partner after Alan Menken was unavailable, and John supplied the melodic and pop-oriented counterpoint to Rice's words. Hans Zimmer, meanwhile, composed the film's instrumental score, while South African musician Lebo M helped establish the production's African musical character.

The roles are often mixed up because Elton John is the more visible recording artist and performed the end-credits version of “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” Alan Menken was also closely associated with Disney songwriting, but he did not write The Lion King's lyrics. Tim Rice's work on the film earned him an Academy Award alongside John for the winning love song.