The Harvard Krokodiloes, the world’s oldest a cappella jazz group, have transformed the Sherman Brothers’ whimsical “I Wanna Be Like You” from Disney’s The Jungle Book into a sophisticated signature anthem that showcases their vocal virtuosity. Dressed in their iconic black tie and tails, the Kroks deconstruct the song’s swing-era energy with astonishing precision: a walking vocal bass line and articulate mouth percussion form the rhythmic foundation, while sections of singers replicate the original’s explosive brass riffs using punchy syllables like “doo” and “bop.”
The lead vocalist channels Louis Prima’s uninhibited swagger, navigating the jaunty melody and recreating the wild scat solo note-for-note, all supported by subtle, synchronized choreography.
More than just a performance, this meticulously crafted arrangement serves as their global calling card, using the universal language of music to break down cultural barriers during their international tours and perfectly embodying their unique blend of Ivy League excellence and joyful, childlike wonder.