It might not be the album that fans wanted from Beyoncé, but it’s going to be just as big, if not bigger. Especially since it will involve Disney.
The queen is bringing some of her favorite artists together for The Lion King: The Gift, which will be an ode to the live-action film The Lion King (and soundtrack), out on July 18. Mrs. Knowles-Carter will be the executive producer and curator of the album and will have new songs on the project. The classic Disney film will include the authentic sounds of Africa on it.
Bey had this to say about her involvement:
“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. 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.”
As the company describes it, The Lion King: The Gift is a “love letter to Africa.”
The new version of The Lion King stars Beyoncé as Nala, Donald Glover as Simba, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa and more and hits theaters July 18.
“The Lion King: The Gift,” an album featuring global artists & steeped in the sounds of Africa, produced & curated by @Beyonce Knowles-Carter, will release 7/19. “Spirit,” the single from the album & soundtrack for The Lion King, will be available tonight. https://t.co/IbMpQvJ97U pic.twitter.com/AA7Fxl7hb7
— The Lion King (@disneylionking) July 9, 2019
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