The release of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever in November 2022 was not only a monumental moment for cinema but also a musical triumph. The film’s soundtrack, curated by composer Ludwig Göransson, delivered an emotionally charged and diverse collection of tracks that complement the themes of legacy, grief, and resilience explored in the movie. Featuring contributions from a range of artists, including Rihanna, Tems, and Stormzy, the album captured the powerful emotions of the film while honoring the memory of late actor Chadwick Boseman.
Rihanna made a highly anticipated return to music after a multi-year hiatus with Lift Me Up, the album’s lead single. The song, written as a heartfelt tribute to Boseman, quickly resonated with listeners around the world, topping charts and earning critical acclaim for its haunting melody and emotional depth. Lift Me Up became more than just a song; it was a poignant reflection of loss, love, and remembrance, perfectly mirroring the film’s narrative and its themes of mourning and honoring a beloved figure. Rihanna’s return to music after years away was made even more special by the song’s emotional connection to the film and its star.
The soundtrack also features a range of other standout tracks that enhance the movie’s narrative. No Woman, No Cry, originally by Bob Marley, was remixed by Göransson to create a soulful, reflective version that evokes a sense of unity and resilience. The track, like the rest of the album, pays tribute to the spirit of community and the strength found in the face of hardship. Additionally, Born Again by Tems further elevates the album’s emotional tone with its introspective and soulful vibe, adding to the soundtrack’s ability to capture the emotional landscape of both the film and the broader cultural context it represents.
The album’s blend of global influences—ranging from reggae and Afrobeats to contemporary pop and hip-hop—mirrors the diversity and richness of the Wakandan culture depicted in the film. It weaves together a tapestry of musical genres, creating a seamless fusion of sounds that reflect both the fictional world of Wakanda and the real-world significance of the film. The soundtrack’s success lies not only in its ability to enhance the film’s emotional impact but also in its ability to stand alone as a powerful collection of music that resonates deeply with listeners on its own.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever deals with the profound loss of Chadwick Boseman, who portrayed T’Challa in the original Black Panther film and tragically passed away in 2020. The soundtrack’s reflective nature underscores this loss, while also celebrating the strength and resilience of the characters and the legacy of the fictional nation of Wakanda. The album has been hailed by both fans and critics as one of the best film soundtracks in recent memory, with its rich musical diversity and deeply emotional connections to the film’s themes.
As the soundtrack continues to soar on charts and garner praise, it’s clear that the music of Wakanda Forever is as iconic as the film itself. The contributions from Rihanna, Tems, and others, paired with Göransson’s masterful curation, ensure that the album will remain a cultural touchstone long after the film’s release. It serves not only as a tribute to Boseman but also as a celebration of the resilience, unity, and strength of the global community that Black Panther and Wakanda Forever represent.