Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems has landed another major Hollywood role after being named executive music producer and curator of the “Children of Blood and Bone” soundtrack, adding fresh momentum to one of the most anticipated fantasy films of 2027.
The announcement was made during the film’s trailer launch event in New York City, where director Gina Prince-Bythewood revealed that Tems will oversee the film’s soundtrack and contribute three brand-new songs. The development further cements the singer’s growing influence in global entertainment as the film prepares for its theatrical debut next year.
Director Confirms Tems’ Expanded Role
Executive Music Producer & Curator of the Children of Blood and Bone soundtrack.
Our very own @temsbaby 🕊️
3 brand new Tems songs. Coming soon🙏🏾💙 pic.twitter.com/8qHnADsbRJ
— Muyiwa Awoniyi (@IAmDonawon) July 28, 2026
The news emerged during Paramount Pictures’ trailer launch event for “Children of Blood and Bone,” where filmmaker Gina Prince-Bythewood unveiled the project’s musical leadership.
According to reports, Prince-Bythewood announced that Tems will executive produce and curate the “Children of Blood and Bone” soundtrack, ensuring the film’s music reflects the emotional and cultural depth of its story. In addition to overseeing the soundtrack, the Grammy winner has recorded three original songs specifically for the movie.
Tems’ manager, Muyiwa Awoniyi, later confirmed the announcement on X, writing that the artist would serve as executive music producer and curator while teasing the release of three new songs tied to the film.
The appointment marks one of Tems’ most significant behind-the-scenes roles in Hollywood, expanding her influence beyond performing into shaping the overall musical identity of a major studio production.
Burna Boy Joins as Executive Music Consultant
“I wanted Tems to curate the soundtrack. I wanted her to executive produce it. She’s actually the first woman to executive produce a soundtrack at this level, which is incredible.
She put together an epic soundtrack. There are absolutely no skips. Then Burna Boy came on board as… pic.twitter.com/Y9P4zuHQWD
— Children of Blood and Bone Updates (@UpdatesCOBAB) July 28, 2026
Tems will not be the only Nigerian music star contributing to the film’s sound.
During the trailer event, Prince-Bythewood also revealed that Burna Boy has joined the production as executive music consultant. His involvement alongside Tems brings together two of Africa’s biggest global artists to help define the film’s musical direction.
The collaboration reflects Hollywood’s increasing embrace of African talent, particularly for stories rooted in African culture and mythology. Their combined creative input is expected to deliver a soundtrack that feels both authentic and globally appealing.
A Soundtrack Designed to Match Orïsha’s World
Music has already become an important part of the film’s early marketing.
Tems’ hit single “Me & U” features prominently in the film’s first official teaser, giving audiences an early indication of how her sound complements the fantasy world of Orïsha.
Now that she has been confirmed as executive producer of the “Children of Blood and Bone” soundtrack, fans can expect a carefully curated musical experience that extends beyond a single promotional track.
Her three original songs are expected to help capture the emotional highs and lows of the story while reinforcing the film’s connection to contemporary African music.
Trailer Introduces Ayra Starr’s Acting Debut
VIDEO: Ayra Starr, Tems feature in movie teaser “Children of Blood and Bone”
Popular Afrobeats artists Ayra Starr and Tems were featured in an upcoming movie, “Children of Blood and Bone,” scheduled to be released on January 15, 2027.
According to the director, Gina… pic.twitter.com/kq9lW2jqJE
— The Nation Nigeria (@TheNationNews) July 28, 2026
The soundtrack announcement came just hours after Paramount Pictures released the film’s first official trailer.
The footage offered audiences their first look at Nigerian singer Ayra Starr, who makes her feature film acting debut in “Children of Blood and Bone.” Although details about her character remain under wraps, the singer has previously described the project as her first major acting role.
Her appearance adds another layer of excitement for fans eager to see African music stars making an impact in international cinema.
A Bestselling Novel Comes to the Big Screen
Based on Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling fantasy novel, “Children of Blood and Bone” transports audiences to the magical kingdom of Orïsha, a world inspired by West African history, traditions, and mythology.
The story follows Zélie Adebola, portrayed by Thuso Mbedu, as she embarks on a dangerous mission to restore magic that was violently taken from her people. She is joined by her brother Tzain and unlikely royal allies as they confront the oppressive rule of King Saran.
The adaptation has generated enormous anticipation since it was announced, with readers eager to see one of modern fantasy’s most celebrated novels brought to life on the big screen.
Star-Studded Cast Anchors the Fantasy Epic
From visionary filmmaker Gina Prince-Bythewood, the world of Orïsha comes to life. Watch the Official Trailer for Children Of Blood And Bone – only in theatres and IMAX January 15, 2027. pic.twitter.com/LCzUYxbLwG
— Children of Blood and Bone (@ChildrenofBandB) July 28, 2026
Paramount Pictures has assembled an impressive ensemble for the adaptation.
The cast includes Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Damson Idris, Lashana Lynch, Regina King, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Zackary Momoh, Bukky Bakray, Saniyya Sidney, Amandla Stenberg, Tosin Cole, Thuso Mbedu, and Ayra Starr.
Behind the camera, director Gina Prince-Bythewood is supported by an acclaimed creative team that includes Academy Award-winning production designer Hannah Beachler, composer Terence Blanchard, choreographer Fatima Robinson, cinematographer Polly Morgan, and editor Terilyn A. Shropshire.
The production has also emphasized authentic African-inspired costume design, hairstyling, makeup, and visual storytelling to fully realize the world of Orïsha.
Release Date Set for January 2027
With the first trailer now released and its musical team officially unveiled, anticipation continues to grow for the fantasy epic.
The decision to place Tems in charge of the “Children of Blood and Bone” soundtrack, while adding three exclusive songs and bringing Burna Boy on board as executive music consultant, positions the film’s music as one of its defining creative elements.
Children of Blood and Bone” is scheduled to open exclusively in theaters, IMAX, Dolby Cinema, and Premium Large Format theaters on January 15, 2027, giving audiences a chance to experience both its epic story and a soundtrack crafted by one of Africa’s biggest global music stars.
Featured image: Todd Owyoung for The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon
—Read Also
