The time of year we’ve been waiting for is almost here. No, we’re not talking about Christmas. We’re talking about the upcoming film adaptation of The Color Purple musical. The movie has a stacked cast that includes music mainstays Fantasia Barrino, H.E.R., Ciara and Halle Bailey. But that’s not the only thing that will be star-studded when it comes to The Color Purple. The film’s soundtrack will also boast its fair share of star power with features from the likes of Usher, Mary J. Blige, Missy Elliott, Megan Thee Stallion, Coco Jones and the girl on fire herself Alicia Keys alongside cast renditions of favorites from the musical. In fact, Alicia’s contribution “Lifeline” serves as the album’s lead single.
“Lifeline” is an uplifting pop-R&B cut that picks up on the themes from the film through Alicia’s current musical lens. Piano, guitar and epic percussion that eventually gives way to marching band-style snare drums make up the foundation of the song. Meanwhile, she enlists layered vocals and a backing choir to make it all feel larger than life.
All the pomp and circumstance belie a simple message of confiding in someone when times get hard. “Oh, I can be your lifeline / Stay with you ’til the sunrise / When you’re low, it don’t mean you’re alone / I’ll be by your side,” she sings on the chorus.
With the unexpectedly eclectic soundtrack, there will be plenty to sing about when Music From And Inspired By The Color Purple is released on December 15th, just a few short days before the Christmas Day arrival of the film. Allow Alicia Keys to help prepare you for what’s to come when you listen to “Lifeline” right here.
