Some days ago Marvel Studios teased Rihanna’s involvement in the forthcoming soundtrack Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Today, Rihanna is back with new music titled Lift Me Up.
The new track which was co-written by Nigerian singer Tems is the Diamonds singer’s first song as a lead artist in 6 years and will feature on the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack. Lift Me Up is a tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman, the star of the first Black Panther movie.
In a recent press release, Tems spoke about co-writing the project and working with Rihanna: “After speaking with Ryan and hearing his direction for the film and the song, I wanted to write something that portrays a warm embrace from all the people that I’ve lost in my life. I tried to imagine what it would feel like if I could sing to them now and express how much I miss them.” She continued, “Rihanna has been an inspiration to me so hearing her convey this song is a great honor.”
Prior to the release of the song, Marvel shared a trailer of the Wakanda Forever movie on social media showing the title transform to an ‘R’ hinting at Rihanna’s inclusion. Rihanna had gone ahead to confirm her involvement by posting a love emoji in the comment section and announcing the release of the song. Today, the song drops for all BadGirlRiri’s fans and music enthusiasts around the world.
When it comes to vocal abilities Rihanna doesn’t thread softly, the Barbadian singer goes all the way out and this is what she displays on Lift Me Up. Known for her ability to shine brightly on different octaves, she chooses to go light Soprano as she sings emotional lyrics: “Lift Me Up. Hold me down. Keep me close, safe and sound.”
The Ludwig Goransson produced and Ryan Coogle’s Lift Me Up also shows singer Tem’s indisputable pen writing abilities who recently won the Best Collaboration Category at the 2022 BET Hip-hop Awards for her contribution to Future and Drake’s Wait For U.
The soundtrack for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever drops on November 4 while the movie would be available in theatres on November 11. While we await its premiere, you can listen to Rihanna’s Lift Me Up here.