Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems is adding another milestone to her growing list of global achievements after being announced as the executive producer and curator of the soundtrack for the highly anticipated fantasy film Children of Blood and Bone.
The announcement marks a significant moment not only for the singer but also for African music on the global stage. Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, the film is one of Hollywood's most ambitious fantasy productions inspired by African culture, and Tems has been entrusted with shaping its musical identity.
According to Prince-Bythewood, Tems spearheaded the creation of the soundtrack, bringing together a lineup of some of Afrobeats' biggest stars while ensuring the music remains true to the film's West African roots.
Tems to lead a star-studded soundtrack
Beyond serving as executive producer, Tems will also contribute three brand-new original songs created specifically for the film. Her manager confirmed that the tracks will begin rolling out ahead of the movie's worldwide release on January 15, 2027.
Joining her on the soundtrack are fellow Nigerian stars Burna Boy, Fireboy DML, BNXN and Ayra Starr, creating one of the strongest African artist lineups assembled for a Hollywood film soundtrack in recent years.
The movie's newly released behind the scenes teaser already feature Tems' hit single Me & U, giving audiences an early glimpse into the musical direction of the project.
A major Hollywood milestone
Tems' role extends far beyond recording music.
As executive producer and curator of the soundtrack, she will oversee both the creative and production process, guiding the album's overall direction while ensuring every song complements the film's themes and storytelling. The position also involves collaborating closely with director Gina Prince-Bythewood to develop a soundtrack that reflects the emotional depth and cultural richness of the story.
Prince-Bythewood revealed that Tems is the first woman to executive produce and curate a Hollywood movie soundtrack of this scale, making the appointment another landmark achievement in the singer's rapidly expanding international career.
Bringing Orisha to life through music
Based on Tomi Adeyemi's bestselling novel, Children of Blood and Bone is set in the mythical kingdom of Orisha, a fantasy world heavily inspired by West African history, mythology and spirituality.
The story follows Zelie Adebola, a young maji determined to restore magic to her people after a ruthless king wipes out the kingdom's magic-wielding community. Her dangerous journey unfolds against a backdrop of resistance, family and destiny.
The film features an impressive international cast, including Thuso Mbedu, Damson Idris, Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Cynthia Erivo, Lashana Lynch, Tosin Cole, Richard Mofe-Damijo and Ayra Starr, who makes her Hollywood acting debut.
Filmed in South Africa, the production is scheduled to premiere exclusively in cinemas and IMAX worldwide on January 15, 2027.
Another global moment for African music
Tems' appointment reflects the growing influence of African artists in shaping major international productions. Rather than simply contributing a song, she has been given creative control over the soundtrack, ensuring the music remains deeply connected to the film's African-inspired world.
With three original songs on the way and a soundtrack featuring some of Nigeria's biggest stars, Children of Blood and Bone is positioning itself as both a cinematic event and a major musical release.
As anticipation builds toward its 2027 premiere, Tems' latest role further reinforces her status as one of Africa's leading creative voices, continuing to bridge the gap between Hollywood storytelling and the global rise of Afrobeats.
