After a lengthy period of four years, the legacy of the Black Panther lives on in the highly anticipated follow-up film, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The movie presents a solemn tone as it introduces a fresh reality for the world’s most advanced technological nation, which must now adapt to exist without its intrepid ruler.
Wakanda Forever Shines With Its Soundtrack
In 2018, the release of Black Panther in cinemas brought about a significant shift in culture as it was known at the time. The indisputable triumph of the Marvel Cinematic Universe movie emphasized the evident requirement for a greater number of Black narratives in the Hollywood industry. Not only did the movie gross over $1 billion worldwide and become one of the highest-grossing films of all time, but it also garnered critical acclaim and multiple accolades, including three Academy Awards.
An African and Mesoamerican Soundtrack
While the origin story of T’Challa as the Black Panther, played by the late Chadwick Boseman, was moving and captivated audiences, the success of the Black Panther film extended beyond its compelling plot. The accompanying soundtrack, meticulously assembled by Grammy and Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper Kendrick Lamar, was equally significant to viewers. Featuring a diverse array of acclaimed artists such as Future, SZA, and Jorja Smith, the 14-track album took listeners on an Afrofuturistic voyage, defying gender norms and showcasing a captivating musical experience that continues to be enjoyed by fans today.
The upcoming MCU film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever introduces viewers to Talokan, a concealed realm whose trajectory closely mirrors that of Wakanda. The trailer for the highly anticipated movie reveals that grief is a central theme in this story, which is compounded by a multitude of other emotions, such as guilt, fear, rage, and triumph. The soundtrack for the upcoming film appropriately captures this diverse range of feelings.
Featuring contributions from a diverse group of Black and brown artists hailing from various corners of the diaspora, including Rihanna (her first new solo single in six years), Tems, and Amaarae, the soundtrack for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever embodies the indomitable spirit of Wakanda, which endures despite its struggles. Additionally, the album showcases the beauty and richness of African and Mesoamerican cultures that are reflected in the film. Much like the movie, the soundtrack serves as a poignant tribute to the late Chadwick Boseman and anyone who has experienced loss but persevered in the face of adversity.
The artists involved in creating this powerful musical compilation have masterfully crafted a range of genres and styles to produce a cohesive and emotive soundtrack that is sure to resonate with fans of the film and music lovers alike.