Grammy-winning Nigerian stars Tems and Burna Boy are set to spearhead the official soundtrack for Paramount Pictures’ highly anticipated fantasy epic Children of Blood and Bone, bringing together an impressive lineup of African artists for one of the most ambitious film soundtracks in recent years.
Tems has been appointed Executive Music Producer and Curator of the soundtrack, making history as the first woman to executive produce and curate a major Hollywood film soundtrack of this scale. In addition to overseeing the project’s creative direction, the Grammy winner has contributed three brand-new original songs created exclusively for the film.
Joining her is Burna Boy, who will serve as the soundtrack’s Executive Music Consultant, helping shape the musical identity of the project while contributing alongside an all-star roster of African talent. The soundtrack is also expected to feature artists including Ayra Starr, BNXN, and Fireboy DML, among others, celebrating the richness and diversity of contemporary African music.
Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and based on Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling fantasy novel, Children of Blood and Bone follows the story of Zélie Adebola, a young warrior determined to restore magic to the kingdom of Orïsha after it is brutally suppressed by a powerful monarchy. The film boasts an acclaimed cast that includes Thuso Mbedu, Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Cynthia Erivo, Damson Idris, Lashana Lynch, Richard Mofe-Damijo, and Ayra Starr in her feature film acting debut.
Speaking about the decision to hand the soundtrack to Tems, director Gina Prince-Bythewood praised the Nigerian star’s artistry and vision, explaining that she wanted someone capable of creating music that reflected the emotional depth, cultural richness, and magical world of Orïsha. The filmmaker described the completed soundtrack as a powerful extension of the film’s storytelling.
The announcement further highlights the growing influence of African artists in global cinema. In recent years, musicians from the continent have become increasingly prominent in Hollywood productions, but Children of Blood and Bone represents one of the largest collaborations centered almost entirely around African creative talent, both on screen and behind the scenes.
Fans have responded enthusiastically to the news, celebrating the decision to entrust the soundtrack to African artists whose music reflects the film’s cultural inspiration. The combination of Tems’ soulful songwriting, Burna Boy’s global appeal, and contributions from a new generation of African stars has already fueled anticipation for what could become one of the year’s standout soundtrack albums.
Scheduled for release on January 15, 2027, Children of Blood and Bone is shaping up to be one of Hollywood’s biggest fantasy releases. With Tems curating the music, Burna Boy helping guide its creative direction, and a lineup of African heavyweights contributing original songs, the soundtrack is expected to play a central role in bringing the world of Orïsha to life while showcasing the global power of African music.
