Rihanna returns to music with “Lift Me Up” from “Wakanda Forever” Soundtrack
The day has finally come! Almost seven years after releasing her album Anti, Rihanna has returned to music with the release of “Lift Me Up,” her musical contribution to Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Soundtrack.
“Lift me up/Hold me down/Keep me close/Safe and sound,” Rihanna sings in the chorus.
Her voice, not heard on a song in years, is immaculate. Her vocals shine through alongside a beautiful piano arrangement and minimal guitar strings.
The song is written as a tribute to the late, great Chadwick Boseman, who played the character of Black Panther in the first movie before dying of cancer in 2020. It was written by Tems, Ludwig Göransson, Ryan Coogler, and Rihanna herself.
“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. “Rihanna has been an inspiration to me so hearing her convey this song is a great honor.”
This also marks Rihanna’s return to music after her long and successful endeavor in the beauty business as she has been confirmed to perform at the 2023 Superbowl. Many rumors have also been swirling of Rihanna touring in the summer of 2023 with new music on the horizon.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is set to premiere in theatres on Nov. 11.
