Tems to Lead ‘Children of Blood and Bone’ Soundtrack Featuring Burna Boy, Ayra Starr and Other African Stars

Grammy winning Nigerian singer Tems is taking another major step in her international career after being announced as the executive music producer and curator of the official soundtrack for the highly anticipated Hollywood fantasy film Children of Blood and Bone.

The announcement has attracted attention across the music and film industries, particularly following the release of a new movie trailer on Thursday, November 12, which features a preview of Tems’ original song titled “African Love Story.” The track, written and performed by the singer, is scheduled for release on November 20 through RCA Records.

Tems will oversee the film’s soundtrack and contribute three original songs to the project, marking another significant achievement in her growing career as a songwriter, producer and international music star. She was previously announced for the role in July, with director Gina Prince Bythewood praising her contribution to the musical direction of the production.

The soundtrack will feature an impressive lineup of African and international artistes, including Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, Fireboy DML, BNXN, Obongjayar, Show Dem Camp, Moelogo, Pa Salieu, Daecolm, Kold AF and Moonchild Sanelly. Burna Boy will also serve as the film’s executive music consultant, bringing his experience to the project.

Directed by Gina Prince Bythewood and adapted from Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling fantasy novel, Children of Blood and Bone is set in the fictional kingdom of Orïsha, inspired by West African culture and mythology. The story follows Zélie Adebola, a young woman on a dangerous mission to restore the magic taken from her people, as she joins forces with her brother and two royal siblings to challenge an oppressive ruler.

The film features a star studded cast led by South African actress Thuso Mbedu, Damson Idris, Amandla Stenberg and Tosin Cole. Other notable actors include Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Regina King, Lashana Lynch and Nigerian veteran actor Richard Mofe Damijo. Nigerian singer Ayra Starr is also part of the cast, making the production another platform for African talent on the international stage.

The film’s original musical score is being composed by jazz musician Terence Blanchard, who is bringing together orchestral arrangements and African musical influences. This will complement the soundtrack curated by Tems and further strengthen the film’s cultural identity.

Children of Blood and Bone is scheduled to arrive in cinemas and IMAX on January 15, 2027, with releases in the UK, Nigeria and other international markets beginning on January 22. Tems’ involvement in the production highlights the growing influence of Nigerian music and African artistes in global entertainment, as the film brings together African-inspired storytelling, international acting talent and a soundtrack led by some of the continent’s biggest music names.