Mira Nair's 'Queen of Katwe' inspired Alicia Keys' new song

Director Mira Nair's true-life movie Queen of Katwe, starring Lupita Nyong'o and David Oyelowo, has now inspired Alicia Keys to write a new song. The singer/songwriter/producer’s new original song, Back to Life, appears in the film.

“Queen of Katwe moved me in every way,” says Alicia Keys. “The film beautifully depicts Uganda with such honest attention to detail—the colours, the sounds, the people—all vividly brought to life. But most soulfully, it’s the story of this fearless, brilliant girl Phiona who embodies the message that the rise to success first begins with opportunity, and the belief you have in yourself to pursue something bigger. The song ‘Back To Life’ that I wrote for this film alongside collaborators Illangelo and Billy Walsh, is about pushing past that little voice of doubt in our heads so we can instead, electrify the world. When we allow women to find and express their power and potential, the world changes for the better. I encourage people to see this film, be moved by Phiona's story and then go back into their own communities and encourage a girl who will rise like a flower that breaks through the concrete to see the sun!”

The film is based on the true story of Phiona Mutesi, a young girl from the streets of rural Uganda who is introduced to the game of chess by Robert Katende, a former missionary and soccer coach, and goes on to become an international chess champion.

Director Mira Nair said, “I have carried a torch for Alicia Key’s voice and passionate engagement with the world for years, so it was exciting to have her artistry join Queen of Katwe, which celebrates the idea that genius is everywhere!”

The film, which will have its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival on September 10, is written by William Wheeler and stars David Oyelowo, Lupita Nyong’o and newcomer Madina Nalwanga. 

Queen of Katwe opens in India on October 7, 2016.