Hakuna matata is a phrase in the Swahili language which means "there are no worries." Its more practical English translation is "there is no problem" although this literally translates as "hakuna shida" in Swahili.
International Fame
Hakuna matata first attained international fame as part of the refrain in the timeless classic Jambo Bwana meaning "hello sir" released by Kenyan band Them Mushrooms back in 1982.
Jambo Bwana is often played by Kenya Airways upon landing in Kenya after an international flight.
Lion King
The "hakuna matata" phrase acquired iconic status following the huge success of the Disney animation, the The Lion King, released in 1995.
The animation has been a runaway blockbuster on both the big and small screen.
The hakuna matata theme pervades the entire animation with, Simba, the lion cub and star of the film, being advised by several characters to quit worrying about his unhappy past and live in the moment.
Hakuna Matata Song
The The Lion King's theme song, also titled Hakuna Matata, was composed by Elton John (music) and Tim Rice (lyrics) and performed by Max Casella, Tom Allan Robbins, Scott Irby-Ranniar, and Jason Raize. It's catchy and playful, making it a favorite of both the young and the young at heart.
It is little wonder that it was nominated for Best Song at the Academy Awards in 1995 and made it to the AFI list of the 100 best American movie songs of all time.
Hakuna Matata Lyrics
Key
Timon
Pumbaa
Both
Simba
Hakuna Matata! What a wonderful phrase
Hakuna Matata! Ain't no passing craze
It means no worries for the rest of your days
It's our problem-free philosophy
Hakuna Matata!
Hakuna Matata?
Yeah. It's our motto!
What's a motto?
Nothing. What's a-motto with you?
Those two words will solve all your problems
That's right. Take Pumbaa here
Why, when he was a young warthog...
When I was a young wart hog
Very nice
Thanks
He found his aroma lacked a certain appeal
He could clear the savannah after every meal
I'm a sensitive soul though I seem thick-skinned
And it hurt that my friends never stood downwind
And oh, the shame He was ashamed
Thought of changin' my name What's in a name?
And I got downhearted How did ya feel?
Everytime that I...
Hey! Pumbaa! Not in front of the kids!
Oh. Sorry
Hakuna Matata! What a wonderful phrase
Hakuna Matata! Ain't no passing craze
It means no worries for the rest of your days
It's our problem-free philosophy
Hakuna Matata!
Hakuna Matata! Hakuna matata!
Hakuna Matata! Hakuna matata!
Hakuna Matata! Hakuna matata!
Hakuna Matata! Hakuna...
It means no worries for the rest of your days
It's our problem-free philosophy
Hakuna Matata!
(Repeats)
I say "Hakuna"
I say "Matata"
Hakuna Matata Video
Souvenirs
The hakuna matata souvenirs you are not most likely to come across in Kenya are t-shirts – you will find them in all colors, sizes and qualities.
To get a durable one, test it by pulling it apart - it shouldn't stretch too much and should quickly snap back into shape. It is also advisable to get an embroidered one rather than one with a sticker.
While in Nairobi, you'll probably pick up the best bargains at Biashara Street. And, remember to bargain the price down so polish your haggling skills!