Rihanna Makes Her Triumphant Return With "Lift Me Up" From Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Soundtrack

“Lift Me Up” By Rihanna

Global icon, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Robyn Rihanna Fenty, better known simply as Rihanna, has made her long-awaited return to music today, Friday, October 28. The release of her new single, “Lift Me Up,” marks the lead track from the highly anticipated Black Panther: Wakanda Forever original soundtrack.

The 34-year-old superstar announced the new single via Twitter, posting a 14-second teaser clip along with the title of the song, “Lift Me Up,” and its release date, "10.28.22." This is Rihanna’s first release in six years, making it a momentous occasion for her fans and the music industry alike.

Shortly after debuting the track, Rihanna attended the film’s international premiere with her boyfriend, rapper A$AP Rocky. Earlier this year, the couple welcomed their first child, adding a personal milestone to Rihanna’s exciting year.

“Lift Me Up,” co-written by Nigerian artist Tems, Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson, Rihanna, and director Ryan Coogler, is a heartfelt tribute to Chadwick Boseman, who played King T’Challa in the original Black Panther film. Boseman tragically passed away in 2020 after battling colon cancer. The song, produced by Göransson, was recorded in five countries, showcasing the global collaboration behind its creation.

Stream/Download “Lift Me Up” here.

Watch the “Lift Me Up” music video below

Reflecting on the emotional depth of the song, Tems shared her inspiration: “After speaking with Ryan and hearing his direction for the film and the song, I wanted to write something that portrays a warm embrace from all the people I’ve lost in my life. I tried to imagine what it would feel like if I could sing to them now and express how much I miss them. Rihanna has been an inspiration to me, so hearing her convey this song is a great honor.”

“Lift Me Up” is released today via Rihanna’s own Westbury Road label in partnership with Roc Nation, Def Jam Recordings, and Hollywood Records.

This release heralds Rihanna’s return to the music industry, leading up to her much-anticipated performance at the Apple Music Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show on February 12, 2023, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. This event marks the first year of collaboration between Apple Music, the NFL, and Roc Nation.

About Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Photo: Marvel

The film focuses on the leaders of Wakanda as they grapple with the loss of their king and face new challenges to protect their nation from external threats. Directed by Ryan Coogler and produced by Kevin Feige and Nate Moore, the movie stars Angela Bassett, Letitia Wright, Lupita Nyong’o, Winston Duke, and Martin Freeman. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is set to open in U.S. theaters on November 11, 2022.

Sources: Marvel, Sky News, NFL & NFLCommunications
Editor's Note: This article was last updated in January 2023.