Tyla Joins Star-Studded SMURFS Movie Soundtrack with Rihanna, Cardi B, and More on FRIEND OF MINE

Jephthah Nana Adjei Osei - Mensah
By
Tyla Joins Star-Studded SMURFS Movie Soundtrack with Rihanna, Cardi B, and More on FRIEND OF MINE
Tyla


South African pop-amapiano artiste Tyla has been confirmed to feature on the soundtrack for the upcoming SMURFS movie, set to release on July 18, 2025, joining global heavyweights like Rihanna, Cardi B, DJ Khaled, Desi Trill, Natania, and Subhi. Tyla’s inclusion marks another milestone in her meteoric rise, following her stunning 2025 Met Gala appearance in a custom Jacquemus gown and her collaboration with BLACKPINK’s Lisa on WHEN IM WITH YOU.

The soundtrack, distributed via Roc Nation, has already made waves with its lead single HIGHER LOVE by Desi Trill, featuring DJ Khaled, Cardi B, Natania, and Subhi, which dropped in February and blends South Asian influences with hip-hop. Tyla’s yet-to-be-revealed track is expected to bring her signature amapiano flair, adding to the diverse musical tapestry of the film, which follows Smurfette (voiced by Rihanna) on a mission to rescue Papa Smurf from evil wizards Razamel and Gargamel.

The Smurfs soundtrack is shaping up to be a cultural milestone, with Rihanna’s recent released FRIEND OF MINE, marking her first musical release since 2022’s LIFT ME UP for BLACK PANTHER: WAKANDA FOREVER. The full soundtrack, set for release on June 13, features an eclectic mix of artistes, reflecting the film’s aim to bridge global audiences through music. Natania and Subhi, representing Desi Trill, have brought South Asian representation to the forefront with HIGHER LOVE, the first Punjabi-Indian song in a major Hollywood animated feature. 

Fans are elated, with many hoping for a Tyla-Rihanna red carpet moment at the premiere, though some express skepticism about the film’s plot, calling it a “carbon copy” of Trolls due to its music-heavy, city-adventure narrative. The all-star voice cast, including James Corden, Nick Offerman, and Sandra Oh, further elevates the project’s appeal.

However, the Smurfs soundtrack’s star power raises questions about authenticity versus commercial appeal. While Tyla and artistes like Natania and Subhi bring cultural depth, the heavy reliance on mainstream names like Cardi B and DJ Khaled could overshadow the film’s whimsical roots, a concern echoed fans who worry the franchise is chasing trends rather than innovating. 

The blending of diverse musical styles, amapiano, Punjabi, hip-hop, and pop, might risk a disjointed soundtrack, potentially alienating younger audiences expecting a more cohesive SMURFS vibe. As Tyla continues to shine globally, her contribution to this soundtrack, alongside Rihanna and others, positions her as a rising force, but the project’s success will hinge on whether it can balance its ambitious lineup with the charm of the SMURFS’ legacy.

Comments

MORE FROM
music

More From 3Music News

Creative Arts Get Major Boost in Ghana’s Budget 2026
culture | BY Christabel Newman | November 14th, 2025

Creative Arts Get Major Boost in Ghana’s Budget 2026

Ghana’s creative arts sector has received a significant vote of confidence in the 2026 national budget, with several initiatives aimed at reviving and expanding the country’s cultural and artistic landscape.

From the Streets to Mainstream, Kweku Smoke Has Carved A Path for Himself
music | entertainment | BY Christabel Newman | November 14th, 2025

From the Streets to Mainstream, Kweku Smoke Has Carved A Path for Himself

“If I put out a single, the people won’t get enough. The album is a journey. You can’t take one song out it’s all connected.” This is why entire albums chart at once. Each track feels like a chapter, not a standalone release.

Effs Turns Pain, Purpose and Power Into a New Creative Era
music | entertainment | BY Christabel Newman | November 14th, 2025

Effs Turns Pain, Purpose and Power Into a New Creative Era

Effs’ entry into mainstream recognition began with I LIKE THAT, a track that gained momentum across borders due to its global sound. This led to her meeting rapper Medikal, a collaboration she had been manifesting long before it happened.

Ayra Starr Arrives in Ghana Ahead of Tidal Rave Festival
music | entertainment | BY Christabel Newman | November 14th, 2025

Ayra Starr Arrives in Ghana Ahead of Tidal Rave Festival

Nigerian music sensation Ayra Starr has officially arrived in Ghana for the highly anticipated Tidal Rave Festival, and her touchdown has already set social media buzzing.

Burna Boy Ejects Couple From U.S. Concert For Sleeping Mid-Performance
entertainment | BY Christabel Newman | November 13th, 2025

Burna Boy Ejects Couple From U.S. Concert For Sleeping Mid-Performance

Burna Boy addressed the pair directly and said: “I’m not doing another song till you go home… take her the f**k home.” Security quickly stepped in to escort the couple out of the venue, after which Burna Boy resumed his performance to loud cheers from the crowd.

Diddy’s Prison Release Delayed to June 2028 Amid Updated Federal Records
entertainment | BY Christabel Newman | November 13th, 2025

Diddy’s Prison Release Delayed to June 2028 Amid Updated Federal Records

Sean Diddy Combs, the founder of Bad Boy Records and one of hip-hop’s most influential figures, has had his expected release date from federal prison pushed back. According to the Federal Bureau of Prisons inmate database, Diddy’s new release date is listed as 4 June 2028, a slight change from the previously reported May 2028 timeline.

Dancegod Lloyd Taps Shatta Wale and Medikal for New Single OUR WIFE
music | entertainment | BY Christabel Newman | November 13th, 2025

Dancegod Lloyd Taps Shatta Wale and Medikal for New Single OUR WIFE

Ghanaian dance sensation and choreographer Dancegod Lloyd has once again proven his versatility in the entertainment industry with the release of his brand-new single, OUR WIFE. The vibrant track features two of Ghana’s heavyweights Shatta Wale and Medikal and is produced by A-Town TSB.

Shatta Wale Donates to Vybz Kartel’s Foundation in Support of the Needy in Jamaica
entertainment | BY Christabel Newman | November 13th, 2025

Shatta Wale Donates to Vybz Kartel’s Foundation in Support of the Needy in Jamaica

Ghanaian dancehall superstar Shatta Wale has extended a heartfelt gesture of generosity to the people of Jamaica by donating an undisclosed amount to Vybz Kartel’s Foundation.

The 5th Edition of CREATORS FESTIVAL Happens This November!
entertainment | culture | BY Christabel Newman | November 13th, 2025

The 5th Edition of CREATORS FESTIVAL Happens This November!

The wait is over! The much-anticipated Creators Festival 2025 returns for its 5th edition on 22nd November at the 3Music TV Forecourt, promising an unforgettable experience for Ghana’s most vibrant community of creators, innovators and digital entrepreneurs.

Mellissa Darlin Announces Release Date for GOOD BOY Featuring Joey B and Moliy
music | entertainment | BY Christabel Newman | November 13th, 2025

Mellissa Darlin Announces Release Date for GOOD BOY Featuring Joey B and Moliy

Ghanaian rising star Mellissa Darlin has finally announced the release date for her much-anticipated single, GOOD BOY, featuring Joey B and Moliy.

The Culture Squad Speak on Ghana’s Youth, Unemployment and the Price of Desperation
culture | BY Christabel Newman | November 13th, 2025

The Culture Squad Speak on Ghana’s Youth, Unemployment and the Price of Desperation

Every year, we see this, no crowd control, no anticipation,” he said. “If you know recruitment draws thousands, why weren’t there enough ambulances, officers or clear structures in place?”

When Faith Meets Tragedy, The Debate Over God’s Will, Free Will and the Ghanaian Youth’s Pain
culture | BY Christabel Newman | November 13th, 2025

When Faith Meets Tragedy, The Debate Over God’s Will, Free Will and the Ghanaian Youth’s Pain

The Big Convo, as the Culture Squad and callers dissected the controversial statement made by Ayamba Ayii Laadi, MP, Pusiga who described a recent national tragedy as “Today is the day the Almighty Allah has ordained for them to die”

More Similar Videos

Showboy Shares His Journey From Prison To Becoming Ghana's Biggest Trapper
music,entertainment | Lerny Lomotey | October 27th, 2025

Showboy Shares His Journey From Prison To Becoming Ghana's Biggest Trapper