Lyrics of I Wanna Be Like You — Louis Prima and Phil Harris
Soundtrack: Classic Disney
Lyrics
I Wanna Be Like You Song Lyrics
Now I'm the king of the swingers
Oh, the jungle VIP
I've reached the top and had to stop
And that's what botherin' me
I wanna be a man, mancub
And stroll right into town
And be just like the other men
I'm tired of monkeyin' around!
Oh, oobee doo
I wanna be like you
I wanna walk like you
Talk like you, too
You'll see it's true
An ape like me
Can learn to be human too
( Gee, cousin Louie
You're doin' real good
Now here's your part of the deal, cuz
Lay the secret on me of man's red fire
But I don't know how to make fire )
Now don't try to kid me, mancub
I made a deal with you
What I desire is man's red fire
To make my dream come true
Give me the secret, mancub
Clue me what to do
Give me the power of man's red flower
So I can be like you
You!
I wanna be like you
I wanna talk like you
Walk like you, too
You'll see it's true
Someone like me
Can learn to be
Like someone like me
Can learn to be
Like someone like you
Can learn to be
Like someone like me!
Classic Disney
Soundtrack Lyrics for Cartoon, 2003
Track Listing
Brad Kane and Lea Salonga
Elton John
Angela Lansbury
Samuel E. Wright
Elton John
Samuel E. Wright
Elton John
The Little Mermaid
Julie Andrews
Dick Van Dyke
Julie Andrews
Hayley Mills
The Beach Boys & Annette Funicello
Burl Ives
Paul Frees
J. Pat O'Malley
Kirk Douglas
Jud Conlon Chorus
Jimmy MacDonald
Ilene Woods
James Baskett
Tchaikovsky
Donald Novis
Adriana Caselotti
Mickey Mouse
Jerry Orbach and Angela Lansbury
Elton John
Jodi Benson
Brad Kane
Richard White
Paige O'Hara and Robby Benson
Julie Andrews
Al Kasha
Baroque Hoedown
Angela Lansbury
Phil Harris and Bruce Reitherman
Julie Andrews
Pearl Bailey
David Tomlinson
The Mellomen
The Mellomen
Mickey Mouse
Burl Ives
The Mellomen
James Baskett and Nick Stewart
Verna Felton
Ilene Woods
Cliff Edwards
The Seven Dwarfs
Pinto Colvig
Judy Kuhn
Randy Newman
Jeremy Irons
Tony Jay and Tom Hulce
Jeff Bennett
René Auberjonois
David Ogden Stiers
Danny Elfman
Paul Terry
The Mellomen
Richard White
Angela Lansbury
Julie Andrews
Louis Prima and Phil Harris
Roger Miller
John Davidson, Lesley Ann Warren
Mary Costa and Bill Shirley
George Givot
John Darling
Sterling Holloway
Bill Hayes
Paul Frees
The Sportsmen
Disney Studio Chorus
Otis Harlan, Billy Gilbert, Pinto Colvig, Roy Atwell, and Scotty Mattraw
Danny DeVito
Charles Kimbrough
Bill Farmer
Judy Kuhn
Susan Egan
Disneyland
Ken Page
Randy Newman
Angela Lansbury
Cliff "Ukelele Ike" Edwards
Nancy Adams
Phil Harris
J. Pat O'Malley
The Disney Chorus
Deborah Walley
Buddy Ebsen and Lesley Ann Warren
Peggy Lee
Maurice Chevalier
Paul Frees
Cliff Edwards
Eleanor Audley
Mary Costa
Larry Morey
Betty Noyes
Adriana Caselotti
"I Wanna Be Like You" is a memorable song from the 1967 Disney animdted film, "The Jungle Book." Sung by the character King Louie, voiced by Louis Prima, the song expresses his desire to become human. The film is based on Rudyard Kipling's collection of stories, set in the dense forests of India. This song stands out for its catchy melody and humorous lyrics, capturing the essence of King Louie's character and his ambitions.
Main Message and Theme.
The song's lyrics convey a deep tearning for transformation and belonging. King Louie's aspiration to be human reflects a universal theme of identity and the quest for self-improvement. His focus on acquiring the ability to make fire, a symbol of human advancement and power, underscores his belief that such a skill would elevate his status and integrate him into the human world. The song's lively rhythm and upbeat tempo, characteristic of the swing genre, add a layer of irony to his ambitions, as his carefree nature contrasts with the complexities of human life and society.
Origin and Genre.
Released as part of "The Jungle Book" soundtrack in 1967, this song blends elements of jazz and swing, mirroring the musical trends of the time. The inclusion of this genre in a children's animated film was innovative, introducing young audiences to a style of music they might not have encountered otherwise. The choice of Louis Prima, a renowned jazz musician, to voice King Louie, further authenticates the song's style, adding a layer of authenticity to the character's musical expression.
Meaning and Analysis.
At its core, "I Wanna Be Like You" explores themes of envy, ambition, and the grass-is-always-greener syndrome. King Louie's admiration for humans and his desire to mimic their abilities highlight a common longing for the qualities or possessions others have, which one believes will bring fulfillment or happiness. However, the song also touches on the idea that true happiness and identity come from embracing one's nature and strengths rather than imitating others. This message is subtly conveyed through the song's playful tone and King Louie's eventual realization of the value of his own unique qualities.
Emotion and Style.
The emotion driving the song is a mix of envy and admiration, wrapped in a joyful and energetic musical style. This combination creates a contrast that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The swing and jazz influences in the music mirror the carefree yet complex nature of King Louie's character, offering a deeper insight into his personality and desires beyond the surface-level comedy. The song's ability to balance these elements is a testament to the skillful composition and storytelling of the Disney musical team, making "I Wanna Be Like You" a timeless piece that resonates with audiences of all ages.
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