The lead track from Marvel’s blockbuster sequel “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” “Lift Me Up,” marks Rihanna’s long-awaited comeback to music.
Written by Tems, Ludwig Göransson, Rihanna, and filmmaker Ryan Coogler, the song is a homage to Chadwick Boseman’s life and work. It will be made available on Friday, October 28 in advance of the movie’s Nov. 11 theatrical debut. There isn’t much information available regarding the style and sound of “Lift Me Up,” despite Rihanna briefly teasing the song’s melodious hum on social media.
lift me up
10.28.22 pic.twitter.com/hIvhUQP8Bj— Rihanna (@rihanna) October 26, 2022
“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,” Tems said in a statement. “Rihanna has been an inspiration to me so hearing her convey this song is a great honor.”
The song was recorded in five countries and Rihanna shared only a snippet of it on social media.
Fans have been eagerly awaiting new music from Rihanna since her last album, “Anti,” which dropped in 2016. There had been speculation that she would release something new in anticipation of her performance as the headliner for the upcoming Superbowl Halftime Show in February.
“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever – Music From and Inspired By” will be released on November 4. The film hits theaters on November 11.
