If you thought all the camaraderie surrounding Black Panther was over with the movie, you are mistaken. This massive Hollywood blockbuster with the very African cast, and Afro-American director and most importantly an African Superhero has revolutionized not just an African Kingdom devoid of colonialism but also the music. Yes, this movie extends to a soundtrack that is highly self sufficient- Black Panther the album, “from and inspired by” the movie. The album not only fuses various thematic allusions to the movie, but is increasingly thoughtful and creative.
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Mr Kendrick Lamar is a pre-eminent rapper, stealing all the limelight and is musically very adventurous. Black Panther, the album has secured a number 1 on Billboard 200 chart because it is thoroughly and densely packed with novel intuitions, ideas and allusions. The mastermind behind this album is the producer of almost every track is Sounwave, Mark Spears who is known for constantly changing the ambience with his funky percussion, electronics and a menacing rock guitar.
Ending this dense album is the track “Pray for me”, where Mr. Lamar very righteously raps about, “I fight the world, I fight you, I fight myself” incorporated in a very conventional African drumming style. Jorja smith also releases a verdict, “When you know what you got, sacrifice ain’t that hard”.
The album’s purpose is twofold, it focuses on the various themes of the movie and yet talks about struggles and conflicts closer home. The album has emerged as an umbrella term. But Mr. Lamar is the King, also suggested by the song Black Panther. He calls himself- King Kendrick. The immensely thrusting lyrics force the listener into the dynamics of African dreams and politics relevant to comic books.
The album also features various South African artists and rappers especially in the song “Redemption,” which is by Zacari & Babes Wodumo.
Sjava, another South African singer sings vibrantly in Zulu in the track, “Seasons” which encompasses the ideas of poverty, violence and above all, racism. The album also has very sturdy overtones of feminism, with many tracks bringing the limelight back to women.
If you haven’t watched the movie, watch it to love it along with its soundtrack. It is beautiful, dark, spacious, bleak and replete with angst. The entire album resonates with the themes reflected in the movie. If you give it a listen you will realize, perhaps Lamar is the main superhero, beyond our ability of comprehension.
Read Also: Black Panther Movie Review: A Game Changer!
