Katrina Rees
Beyoncé has unveiled a brand new song called ‘Spirit’, taken from the soundtrack to the forthcoming Disney remake, The Lion King.
Written for the film by IIya Salmanzadeh, Timothy McKenzie and Beyoncé and produced by Beyoncé, IIya and Labrinth, ‘Spirit’ is a powerful and emotive offering which appears in the film during a pivotal scene featuring Nala (who is voiced by the global superstar).
The uplifting track, which also includes a Swahili chant intro and Bey’s iconic soaring vocals, is everything we could have hoped for and more from Queen Bey. Not only does it have all the qualities to stand strong again the movie’s already iconic songs, such as ‘The Circle of Life’, but it also offers a fresh new perspective on the classic film.
Check it out below.
In addition to appearing on the The Lion King soundtrack, ‘Spirit’ is also the first track to be unveiled from a new project called The Lion King: The Gift. Produced and curated by Beyoncé, the album is set to pay tribute to the iconic film, bringing the authentic sounds of African music to life. Whilst the tracklist has yet to be revealed, the album will include some of the songstress’ favourite artists in addition to some of Africa’s most important artists.
Speaking about the album, Beyoncé said: “This is sonic cinema. This is a new experience of storytelling. I wanted to do more than find a collection of songs that were inspired by the film. It is a mixture of genres and collaboration that isn’t one sound. It is influenced by everything from R&B, pop, hip hop and Afro Beat.”
“I wanted to put everyone on their own journey to link the storyline,” she continued. “Each song was written to reflect the film’s storytelling that gives the listener a chance to imagine their own imagery, while listening to a new contemporary interpretation. It was important that the music was not only performed by the most interesting and talented artists but also produced by the best African producers. Authenticity and heart were important to me.”
‘Spirit’ is available to download and stream now.
The Lion King: The Gift is set for release on July 19.
