Be Prepared

Music by Elton John
Lyrics by Tim Rice
Performed by John Vickery, Tracy Nicole Chapman, Stanley Wayne Mathis, and Kevin Cahoon


I never thought hyenas essential
They're crude and unspeakably plain
But maybe they've a glimmer of potential
If allied to my vision and brain

Scar
I know that your powers of retention
Are as wet as a warthog's backside
But thick as you are, pay attention!
My words are a matter of pride

It's clear from your vacant expressions
The lights are not all on upstairs
But we're talking kings and successions
Even you can't be caught unwares

So prepare for the chance of lifetime
Be prepared for sensational news
A shining new era
Is tiptoeing nearer

And where do we feature?
Just listen to teacher.

I know it sounds sordid
But you'll be rewarded
When at last I am given my dues!
And injustice deliciously squared
Be prepared!

Yeah, be prepared.
We'll be prepared - for what?
For the death of the king!
Is he sick?
No, fool, we're gonna kill him... and Simba, too.
Great idea! Who needs a king?
No king, no king, la la la la la la
Idiots! There will be a king!
Hey, but you just said -
I will be king!
Stick with me, and you'll never go hungry again!
Yeah, all right, long live the king, long live the king!

Hyenas
It's great that we'll soon be connected
With a king who'll be all-time adored

Scar
Of course, quid pro quo, you're expected
To take certain duties on board
The future is littered with prizes
And though I'm the main addressee
The point that I must emphasize is
You won't get a sniff without me!

Scar So prepare for the coup of the century Be prepared for the murkiest scam Meticulous planning Tenacity spanning Decades of denial Is simply why I'll

Hyenas Oooo la la la We'll have food Lots of food We repeat Endless meat

Be king undisputed
Respected, saluted
And seen for the wonder I am
Yes, my teeth and ambitions are bared
Be prepared!

Scar and hyenas
Yes, our teeth and ambitions are bared
Be prepared!