Lebo M Biography: Early Life, Career, The Lion King, Personal Life, Marriages
Early Life
Lebo M, born Lebohang Morake on July 11, 1964, in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa, grew up amidst the challenges of apartheid. Despite lacking formal music training, he nurtured a passion for singing and performing from a young age. Leaving school at just nine years old, he began performing in nightclubs and recorded his debut single, Celebration, at the age of 13, earning a mere R375 for the effort.
Due to the apartheid system, Lebo M embarked on an exile journey to Maseru, Lesotho in 1979, where he worked as a singer at the Victoria Hotel. His talents caught the attention of Lesotho’s Ambassador to the United States, Tim Thahane, who facilitated his enrollment at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, D.C. He later moved to New York and Los Angeles, pursuing his music aspirations.
Lebo M Career Breakthrough
Lebo M’s pivotal moment came in 1987 when he assisted in finding a choir for the Oscars, enhancing the musical experience for the film Cry Freedom, which earned Academy Award nominations. His journey continued with interactions with renowned figures like Solly Letwaba and Hans Zimmer, leading to collaborations on films like The Power of One and The Lion King.
Lebo M On The Lion King
Lebo M played a central role in The Lion King, forming and conducting the African choir and contributing his vocals to the film’s iconic opening song, Circle of Life. His association with composers like Hans Zimmer, Elton John, and Tim Rice resulted in a critically acclaimed soundtrack, winning Academy and Grammy Awards.
Later Work
Lebo M continued collaborating with Hans Zimmer on various films and composing music for productions such as Congo, Outbreak, and Madagascar. His diverse collaborations extended to artists like Quincy Jones, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, and Miriam Makeba. He also ventured into stage productions, notably contributing to the Broadway adaptation of The Lion King and directing international productions across the globe.
Personal Life
Beyond his music, he demonstrated a commitment to philanthropic causes, supporting organizations like the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls. His contributions garnered awards and honors, recognizing his impact on South African arts and culture.
Lebo M Marriages
Lebo M’s personal life was marked by several marriages and divorces. His relationships, including marriages to Vivica Gibson, Nandi Ndlovu, and Angela Ngani-Casara, unfolded amidst personal and public attention. His fourth marriage to Pretty Samuels, featured on the reality show Lebo M: Coming Home, also faced challenges.
Despite announcing a divorce from Pretty Samuels in 2023, Lebo M’s relationship status took an unexpected turn following a family intervention.
