Beyoncé has released a new single as part of the upcoming Lion King film soundtrack.
“Spirit” sees the singer at her best, hitting all the usual high notes accompanied by a string orchestra and gospel choir.
It forms part of a new album she has produced and curated herself, called Beyoncé: The Gift.
She will be voicing Nala in the film, which is released on July 19.
Talking about the album in a statement, Beyoncé said, “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”, 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”.
Walt Disney Records will also be re-releasing the Lion King soundtrack on July 11.
It features a collaboration between Beyoncé and Donald Glover on one of the film’s most famous songs, “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” along with selections from Hanz Zimmers’ score and a brand new Elton John track called “Never Too Late”.
Beyoncé: The Gift will be released on July 19.
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