Renowned South African Grammy Award winner Lebo M is confirmed as one of the music producers and composers for the forthcoming Hollywood film, The Woman King, beside a star-studded cast that includes Viola Davis, and Thuso Mbedu.
The Woman King is inspired by actual events in The Kingdom of Dahomey, one of the most powerful states of Africa in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The story follows Viola Davis’ Nanisca, General of the all-female military unit, and Nawi (Thuso Mbedu), an ambitious recruit, who together fought enemies who violated their honour, enslaved their people, and threatened to destroy everything they’ve lived for.
Production is currently underway here in South Africa.
Lebo M has produced and composed five key songs in the film. He brought along a team of almost 50 choir singers, percussionists, sound engineers, and programmers.
He adds that precision and consideration went into his creative process.
“The five songs have been crafted with precision and due consideration of the immense historical significance that the movie brings, but it also represents the prowess of local talent.
“Being part of this unrivalled ensemble cast is an honour and a privilege, allowing us to produce music that will not only elevate the rising phenoms in the movie but also affirms our culture and traditions through the telling of this story,” says Lebo M.
“This movie is a testament of what many have been fighting for, especially in the acting fraternity – strong black women rising and shining in the forefront. These were the words that Viola Davis shared when announcing the cast of the film.
“I could not agree more, and such projects must be created and shared with the rest of the world.
“I am excited that this project will be celebrated through the unique techniques that we used when creating the soundtracks.”
