African Movies with best Soundtracks

Music has always been an integral part of African culture, and it’s no surprise that the soundtracks of many African films have helped elevate their stories, emotions, and visual impact. From Hollywood collaborations to local hits, African films often feature music that not only complements the narrative but also showcases the continent’s diverse musical heritage. Let’s take a look at some iconic African films with standout soundtracks that have made waves in both cinema and the music world.

1. Black Panther (2018) – A Global Fusion of Sounds

Although not entirely an African production, Black Panther had a profound impact on African cinema and music, thanks to its African-inspired elements and collaboration with African artists. Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film is a celebration of African culture, and its soundtrack is a key component in bringing that vision to life. The soundtrack, produced by Kendrick Lamar, is a fusion of hip-hop, Afrobeats, and traditional African sounds.

Songs like “Pray For Me” by The Weeknd and Kendrick Lamar, and “Opps” by Vince Staples, are woven together with traditional African rhythms and melodies, creating a powerful soundtrack that captures both the modern and traditional elements of African culture. The soundtrack not only enhanced the narrative but also introduced the world to the musical talents of artists like Sjava, Babes Wodumo, and Yugen Blakrok. Black Panther's soundtrack became an instant classic, winning multiple awards, including a Grammy for Best Compilation for Visual Media.

2. Lionheart (2018) – A Celebration of Nigerian Sounds

Lionheart was Nigeria's official entry for the 2020 Academy Awards and marked a historic moment as the first Nigerian film to be submitted for consideration in the Best Foreign Language Film category. Directed by Genevieve Nnaji, the film follows a woman’s journey to take control of her father’s business and lead it into the future. While the film’s narrative is powerful, the soundtrack also plays a pivotal role in showcasing Nigerian culture and music.

The music in Lionheart blends traditional Nigerian sounds with contemporary pop, creating a vibrant soundtrack that mirrors the hustle and energy of modern-day Nigeria. With artists like Chike and Wande Coal contributing to the soundtrack, the music reinforces the themes of resilience, empowerment, and determination. Lionheart’s soundscape beautifully captures the spirit of Nigeria, making it a must-watch not only for its storytelling but for its rich, musical backdrop as well.

3. The Wedding Party (2016) – A Nigerian Romantic Comedy With a Catchy Beat

The Wedding Party is one of the highest-grossing Nigerian films of all time and for good reason. Directed by Kemi Adetiba, this romantic comedy centers around the chaos and hilarity that ensue during a high-profile wedding in Lagos. But beyond the comedic moments and love story, the film’s soundtrack is a standout feature, offering an eclectic mix of Nigerian music.

Featuring hits from artists like Wizkid, Timi Dakolo, and 2Baba, the Wedding Party soundtrack beautifully blends contemporary Nigerian pop, Afrobeat, and R&B. The music amplifies the celebration and excitement of the wedding, with upbeat songs that capture the festive nature of Nigerian culture. The track “Madu” by Timi Dakolo became a fan favorite, cementing the film as not only a box office success but a cultural phenomenon. The soundtrack’s lively tunes complement the film's vibrant atmosphere and highlight the best of Nigerian music.

4. Queen of Katwe (2016) – A Fusion of African and Western Music

Queen of Katwe is an inspiring film based on the true story of Phiona Mutesi, a young Ugandan girl who rises from poverty to become a chess prodigy. Directed by Mira Nair, the film’s soundtrack plays a significant role in evoking the emotional depth of the story. The music in Queen of Katwe blends traditional African rhythms with Western classical music, providing a rich sonic backdrop that mirrors Phiona’s journey from the streets of Katwe to international recognition.

The film features a beautiful score composed by Alex Heffes, with African artists like Uganda’s Maurice Kirya contributing to the soundtrack. Songs like “Mirembe” by Maurice Kirya, which translates to "peace" in Luganda, are integral to the film's emotional resonance. The fusion of African sounds with a classical score elevates the film’s narrative, helping audiences connect with the characters and their struggles. Queen of Katwe’s soundtrack is both an auditory representation of Africa’s spirit and a reminder of the power of music in storytelling.

5. Black Is King (2020) – A Musical Masterpiece

Black Is King, written, directed, and produced by Beyoncé, is not just a film—it’s a celebration of Black culture, African heritage, and African diasporic identity. The visual album, inspired by The Lion King, features an extensive range of African artists and musicians. The soundtrack is a dazzling fusion of Afrobeats, trap, and African instrumentation, with Beyoncé’s powerful vocals blending seamlessly with African rhythms.

Songs like “Already”, featuring Shatta Wale and Major Lazer, and “Brown Skin Girl”, featuring Blue Ivy Carter, Saint Jhn, and Wizkid, are both sonically captivating and culturally significant. The visuals and music come together to portray themes of empowerment, self-love, and African pride. Black Is King’s soundtrack highlights some of Africa’s finest musicians, including Wizkid, Yemi Alade, and Burna Boy, and reinforces the power of music to tell African stories to the world.

6. Timbuktu (2014) – A Cinematic and Musical Masterpiece

Timbuktu, directed by Abderrahmane Sissako, is a critically acclaimed film that explores the impact of militant occupation on the people of northern Mali. The film, which combines powerful visuals with a subtle, yet hauntingly beautiful, soundtrack, is a poignant exploration of love, resistance, and survival.

The music in Timbuktu is an integral part of the storytelling, composed by the late, great Malian musician Amadou & Mariam, and other local artists. The soundtrack blends traditional Malian sounds with blues, jazz, and contemporary influences, giving the film an emotional weight that resonates long after the credits roll. The music reflects the resilience of the people of Timbuktu, with melodies that convey both the sorrow and beauty of life under occupation.

7. The Burial of Kojo (2018) – A Dreamlike Soundscape

The Burial of Kojo, a film by Ghanaian filmmaker Blitz Bazawule, is a visually stunning and dreamlike exploration of family, memory, and the bonds that hold people together. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Ruthy, offers a beautiful blend of traditional West African music, modern orchestration, and haunting soundscapes that perfectly complement the film’s surreal atmosphere.

The music creates a deeply immersive experience, drawing viewers into the story while reflecting the film’s themes of loss, magic, and personal transformation. The Burial of Kojo stands out not only for its stunning visuals and storytelling but also for its captivating soundtrack, which adds layers of emotion to this unique cinematic experience.

African films have become more than just entertainment—they are windows into the continent’s rich culture, history, and social issues. A key element of many iconic African films is their soundtracks, which provide a deeper connection to the story and the characters. From Black Panther's fusion of hip-hop and African sounds to Lionheart's celebration of Nigerian pop, these soundtracks have played a pivotal role in not only amplifying the stories told but also showcasing the incredible diversity and richness of African music. Whether it’s the celebration of African pride in Black Is King or the haunting melodies in Timbuktu, these films remind us that music is a universal language that transcends borders, speaking directly to the heart.

About the Authors

Ire Ayatunji