Just ahead of the premiere of the new live-action “The Lion King” on Tuesday, Beyoncé shared a new song, “Spirit,” from a new album that she curated to coincide with the film’s release.
“The Lion King: The Gift” is different from the official soundtrack, which will feature songs from the film, including a duet of “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” sung by her and co-star Donald Glover.
“This is sonic cinema,” Beyoncé said of “The Lion King: The Gift” in a statement. “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,” she continued. “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.”
Jon Favreau directed the new “The Lion King,” which stars Donald Glover as Simba, along with Chiwetel Ejiofor, Billy Eichner, Seth Rogen, John Oliver, John Kani, Alfre Woodard, Florence Kasumba, Eric Andre and Keegan-Michael Key.
“The Lion King: The Gift” will be released on July 19, the same as the film hits theaters. The official “Lion King” soundtrack, which is produced by Hans Zimmer and Favreau, will be released by Walt Disney Records on July 11.