In 2023, the lads of Harvard University astonished the globe with their a cappella version of “I Wanna Be Like You” from the iconic Jungle Book film, which has now gone viral with over 1.6 million views!
This cover is unlike anything else you’ve heard today. The elegant students, dressed in black bowtied tuxedos, bring old-school swing back into style as soon as they begin singing their song. Will Murray, the group’s first lead vocalist, emerges from the semi-circle of finger-clickers to stun the audience with his faultless voice, emulating Sinatra and all of the vintage greats who form the backbone of all-American music.
Please share this wonderful song with friends and family after seeing the video below.
In a really glamorous moment, two additional lead lads, Eddie Gonet IV and Saketh Mynampati, stride out to join him, their elbows on Will’s shoulders and casually leaning against him like a scene from a 1950s musical. Throughout, the sophisticated and calm backup vocalists carry their swing-scat melody like experts, utilizing fantastic and atmospheric harmonies.
However, when Saketh is in the spotlight, the video takes a very different turn. This exceptional vocalist combines unearthly high notes with musical theatre gruffness before transitioning into some stunning R&B vocal lines overflowing with soul and raw talent. Then, just when you think you’ve seen and heard everything, two more lads emerge from the line to do an intermission hide-and-seek dance straight out of Tom and Jerry’s heads.
It’s easy to get lost in the lads’ sophisticated, jazzy vocal arrangements, and you quickly forget that there are no instrumentalists in this performance—the Krokodiloes’ vocals are so rich and balanced that they gradually create the appearance of a fully-fleshed ensemble.
The lads have high expectations for their live performance. The Krokodiloes are Harvard’s oldest a cappella group, dating back to 1946, and always dressed in their signature tuxedos. Bill Clinton is one of their most renowned audience members. They’ve also made appearances on popular American television shows such as Good Morning America and The Tonight Show.
Since their inception, the Krokodiloes have published 31 CDs, including a nearly century-long timelapse of Harvard singers and students. However, the dazzling, fraternal closeness between the artists in this 2023 footage is completely ageless.
The Harvard a cappella group’s performance of “I Wanna Be Like You” has definitely captivated hearts with its nostalgic yet modern spin on this classic song. From Will Murray’s incredible voice to the magnetic companionship of Eddie Gonet IV and Saketh Mynampati, these outstanding students have put on a show to remember. To completely immerse yourself in this sleek and fascinating musical experience, follow the links provided below.