Be Prepared

King Crimson · Other Songs - King Crimson

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



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 unawares



So prepare for a chance of a 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!



(Bansai)Yeah be prepared ha ha

We'll be prepared...

For what?

(Scar)For the death of the king!

(Bansai)Why is he sick?

(Scar)No, fool. We're gonna kill him

and Simba too

(Shenzi)Great idea!!! Who needs a king?

(Shenzi, Bansai, Ed)No king,no king! la la la la la la

(Scar)IDIOTS! there will be a king

(Bansai)hey, but u said...?

(Scar)I will be king!!!!! Stick with me

And u'll never be hungry again!

(Shenzi)Yaaay! all right! long live the king... ja ja jaaaa



It's great that we'll soon be connected

With a king who'll be all-time adored



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!



So prepare for the coup of the century

(Oooh!)

Be prepared for the murkiest scam

(Oooh... La! La! La!)

Meticulous planning

(We'll have food!)

Tenacity spanning

(Lots of food)

Decades of denial

(We repeat)

Is simply why I'll

(Endless meat)

Be king undisputed

(Aaaaaaah...)

Respected, saluted

(...aaaaaaah...)

And seen for the wonder I am

(...aaaaaaah!)

Yes, my teeth and ambitions are bared

(Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo)

Be prepared!



Yes, our teeth and ambitions are bared - Be prepared!

Be Prepared - King Crimson

King Crimson's "Be Prepared" stands as a defining track within the progressive rock genre, originally recorded for the band's seminal 1974 album, *In the Court of the Crimson King*. The composition features the iconic "Geddy" guitar riff, a melodic hook that has become synonymous with the group's sound and is often cited as one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock history. The song serves as the opening movement of the suite, setting a dramatic and ominous tone that characterizes the album's exploration of complex time signatures and intricate arrangements. It remains a staple in the discography of King Crimson, influencing countless artists who followed in the wake of the band's innovative approach to rock music during the mid-1970s.