July 01, 2025
The little blue legends are back — and this time, they’re bringing the bassline with them. Smurfs, the animated musical reboot arriving in cinemas on 18 July 2025, is more than a nostalgic revival. It’s a bold, rhythm-infused reimagining of the beloved franchise, powered by a soundtrack that’s as star-studded as it is sonically daring.
At the heart of this musical renaissance are two Caribbean powerhouses: Rihanna and Shenseea. Their respective tracks, Friend of Mine and It’s My Party, headline a soundtrack that’s already making waves — and not just in the charts.
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Directed by Chris Miller (Shrek the Third, Puss in Boots) and co-directed by Matt Landon, Smurfs blends fantasy, comedy and music in a dazzling animated adventure. The story follows Smurfette (voiced by Rihanna) as she leads a rescue mission into the real world to save Papa Smurf from the clutches of evil wizards Gargamel and Razamel.
With a voice cast that includes James Corden, Sandra Oh, John Goodman and Kurt Russell, the film promises a blend of heart, humour and high-stakes heroism — all set to a genre-hopping soundtrack curated by Roc Nation.
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Rihanna and Shenseea: Soundtrack Royalty
Rihanna’s Friend of Mine marks her return to original music, delivering a tropical, vocal-driven track that’s already become a fan favourite. As both producer and lead voice actor, she’s deeply embedded in the film’s creative DNA — shaping not just the sound, but the soul of the project.
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Meanwhile, Shenseea’s It’s My Party brings her signature dancehall flair to the mix, adding a bold, celebratory energy that pulses through the film’s most vibrant scenes. It’s a milestone moment for the Jamaican star, whose global rise continues to accelerate.
A Soundtrack That Smurfs the Rules
The full 14-track album features a kaleidoscope of global talent — from Cardi B and Tyla to James Corden and Lous and the Yakuza. With Henry Jackman on scoring duties, the music spans pop, dancehall, Afrobeats and desi fusion, reflecting the film’s inclusive, cross-cultural spirit.
Already, songs like Higher Love and Everything Goes With Blue have sparked fan art, dance challenges and a wave of social media buzz. But it’s the deeper message — of unity, identity and joyful resistance — that gives the soundtrack its staying power.
The Verdict: A Cultural Reset in Blue
Smurfs isn’t just a family film. It’s a celebration of Caribbean excellence, Black creativity and women commanding the stage with purpose. Rihanna and Shenseea don’t just lend their voices — they lead a movement.
So whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, this is one cinematic event you won’t want to miss. Come for the nostalgia. Stay for the rhythm. And prepare to see blue in a whole new light.
