Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Tems has been named executive producer and curator for the soundtrack album of Paramount Pictures' highly anticipated film Children of Blood and Bone, marking her executive producing debut. Joining her as an executive consultant is fellow Grammy-winning Afro-fusion star Burna Boy, who will bring his extensive experience to ensure the soundtrack fully interprets the film's narrative.
Directors Vision and Tems' Role
Director Gina Prince-Bythewood confirmed that Tems has recorded three original songs for the project. Prince-Bythewood also recruited Afrobeats stars BNXN and Fireboy to contribute to the soundtrack, which is rooted in Afrobeats. The director stated, "I wanted Tems to curate the soundtrack. I wanted her to executive produce it. She's actually the first woman to executive produce a soundtrack at this level, which is incredible. She put together an epic soundtrack. There are absolutely no skips. Then Burna Boy came on board as an executive consultant."
Musical Collaboration and Composition
The soundtrack album will feature scores by jazz legend Terence Blanchard, known for his work on Malcolm X and BlacKkKlansman. Blanchard is tasked with blending traditional orchestral arrangements with African instrumentation, creating a unique sonic landscape that complements the film's West African-inspired setting.
Both Tems and Burna Boy previously contributed to Marvel's Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack. Tems earned an Oscar nomination for co-writing the lead track 'Lift Me Up,' performed by Rihanna, while Burna Boy's folk rendition 'Alone' was a major highlight of that film.
Film Adaptation and Cast
Children of Blood and Bone is based on Tomi Adeyemi's bestselling, West African-inspired fantasy novel of the same name. The story follows Zélie Adebola, a young woman on a dangerous quest to restore the magic violently stolen from her people, alongside her brother Tzain and unlikely royal allies Amari and Inan, as they challenge the ruthless King Saran.
The screenplay was co-written by Tomi Adeyemi and produced by Paramount Pictures. The all-star ensemble cast includes Thuso Mbedu, Tosin Cole, Amandla Stenberg, Damson Idris, Cynthia Erivo, Lashana Lynch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Regina King, Idris Elba, and Viola Davis. Afrobeats superstar Ayra Starr also joins the cast, along with rising Nollywood stars Pamilerin Ayodeji and Shamz Garuba, representing the Nigerian contingent for the film set in the mystical kingdom of Orïsha.
Release Date and Impact
The film is scheduled for theatrical release on 15 January 2027. This marks Tems' first time executive producing a movie soundtrack album, a milestone that highlights the growing influence of Nigerian artists in global cinema. The collaboration between Tems, Burna Boy, and director Prince-Bythewood is expected to further elevate the international profile of Afrobeats and African storytelling.
