Listen to Beyoncé’s “Spirit,” the First Song From the Upcoming ‘Lion King’ Movie

“This is sonic cinema.”

Disney has announced that Beyoncé will be curating and executive producing the soundtrack for the upcoming The Lion King: The Gift movie. With that announcement came the release of the first song: “Spirit,” which is a new solo track from Beyoncé.

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Speaking about the soundtrack, and how it will sound, Beyoncé, who voices Nala in the movie, said:

This is sonic cinema. This is a new experience of storytelling. I wanted to do more than find a collection of songs that were inspired by the film. It is a mixture of genres and collaboration that isn’t one sound. It is influenced by everything from R&B, pop, hip-hop, and Afro Beat.

She also said that each song on the soundtrack is going to be closely associated with the film:

Each song was written to reflect the film’s storytelling that gives the listener a chance to imagine their own imagery while listening to a new contemporary interpretation. It was important that the music was not only performed by the most interesting and talented artists but also produced by the best African producers. Authenticity and heart were important to me.

WATCH: The Official Trailer for Disney’s New The Lion King

Tuesday, July 9th, was the world premiere of’ The Lion King. The buzz around the album coming out the premiere has been good, with critics and viewers praising the visuals.

The Lion King soundtrack comes out the same day as the movie: July 19th. Listen to “Spirit” below.