Nigerian Grammy-winning singer Tems is taking another major step onto the international entertainment stage after being named executive music producer of the official soundtrack for the forthcoming Hollywood fantasy film, Children of Blood and Bone.

The announcement has generated excitement among music lovers, particularly across Africa, as the project brings together some of the continent’s prominent musical talents for an international film production.

Tems, whose real name is Temilade Openiyi, will oversee the musical direction of the soundtrack, which features several Nigerian and African artistes, including Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, Fireboy DML, BNXN, Obongjayar, Show Dem Camp, Moelogo and South Africa’s Moonchild Sanelly.

The development represents another opportunity for African music to reach a wider international audience through the global film industry.

Tems Announces New Song

As part of the project, Tems has announced a new song titled African Love Story, which will serve as the lead single from the movie’s official soundtrack.

The song, written and performed by the Nigerian singer, is scheduled for release on November 20, 2026, through RCA Records.

Fans have already received a preview of the song following the release of a new trailer for the movie by Paramount Pictures.

The announcement has increased anticipation among supporters of the singer, who are eager to hear her latest musical contribution to the international production.

Tems expressed excitement about being involved in the project, describing it as an honour and revealing that she had curated the soundtrack with contributions from other artistes.

Her involvement goes beyond performing a song, as her executive music producer role places her at the centre of the project’s musical direction.

Burna Boy Also Joins the Production

Another major Nigerian music star involved in the project is Grammy-winning singer Burna Boy.

He has been named executive music consultant for the film, adding another Nigerian heavyweight to the creative team.

The participation of both Tems and Burna Boy is particularly significant because the two artistes have established international profiles through their music and performances.

Other contributors, including Ayra Starr, Fireboy DML and BNXN, further strengthen the Nigerian representation on the soundtrack.

The collaboration brings together different musical styles and generations, creating an opportunity to showcase the diversity of contemporary African music.

What Is Children of Blood and Bone About?

The movie is an adaptation of the bestselling fantasy novel Children of Blood and Bone by Nigerian-American author Tomi Adeyemi.

The story is set in the fictional kingdom of Orïsha, a world inspired by West African culture and mythology.

It follows a young woman, Zélie Adebola, who embarks on a dangerous mission to restore the magic that was taken from her people.

The story explores themes of identity, power, oppression, resistance and the struggle for justice.

The film is directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and features an international cast led by Thuso Mbedu, Damson Idris, Amandla Stenberg and Tosin Cole.

Other notable actors include Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Regina King, Cynthia Erivo, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Nigerian actor Richard Mofe-Damijo.

Nigerian singer Ayra Starr is also among the cast members, adding another connection between the country’s entertainment industry and the production.

African Entertainment Gains Global Attention

The involvement of several African artistes in a major Hollywood production highlights the growing international visibility of African creative talent.

For the Nigerian music industry, the project provides another opportunity to introduce local sounds, musical creativity and artistic expression to audiences beyond the continent.

Tems’ appointment is particularly noteworthy because she is not simply contributing a song but also helping shape the soundtrack as its executive music producer.

The participation of Burna Boy, Ayra Starr and other African artistes also demonstrates the potential of collaboration between musicians from different backgrounds.

As the film approaches its theatrical release, attention will likely remain on the soundtrack and the contributions of the African performers involved.

Children of Blood and Bone is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on January 15, 2027, while Tems’ lead single, African Love Story, is expected on November 20, 2026.

For Nigerian entertainment fans, the project is another development worth watching as African music continues to find opportunities in international productions.

Utelnova will continue to bring readers updates on Nigerian entertainment, music, Nollywood and the growing international influence of African creative Talent.