Be Prepared
King Crimson · Other Songs - King Crimson
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.

