Nigeria’s Ric Hassani soundtracks Oprah Winfrey film

Hassani announced the news via Twitter on 29 July: “God’s faithfulness. I created the music for David Oyelowo's new movie. Isn't that incredible?”

The Water Man stars British-American actor David Oyelowo, who makes his directorial debut with the film. The movie also stars Rosario Dawson, Lonnie Chavis, Amiah Miller, Alfred Molina and Maria Bello, and follows the story a boy who sets out on a quest to save his ill mother by searching for a mythical figure said to have magical healing powers. His quest brings him before the water man called Amos, who is played by Oyelowo.

“It’s a story about love and the things we’re prepared to do for love," Oyelowo told People. "I was just so touched by the idea of a son wanting to do everything he can to save his mother. The film is also very akin to the kind of films I loved growing up, the kind of films Steven Spielberg made, or films like The Goonies and Gremlins and Stand By Me." Details of the film’s release are yet to be announced.

Hassani's music typically fuses R&B, pop and reggae. With the soundtrack, the musician adds to a long list of notable achievements. In 2016, he was nominated at the All Africa Music Awards for his album The African Gentleman. The album also secured him two nominations at The Headies, Nigeria’s foremost music awards ceremony. Popular songs on the album include ‘Believe’ and ‘Only You’.