'The Deliverance' lead Andra Day lends her voice to the movie soundtrack

Andra Day in 'The Deliverance'. Picture: X.

Andra Day in 'The Deliverance'. Picture: X.

Published Sep 5, 2024

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Multiaward-winning musician Andra Day has given new life to the classic song, “I Know Who Holds Tomorrow”, which features in “The Deliverance”.

The world-renowned performer plays the leading role in the supernatural horror movie which is in select cinemas across the globe as well as on Netflix.

Directed by two-time Oscar nominee Lee Daniels ,who gave us “The Butler”, “Empire” and “Star”, the movie also stars Glenn Close, Mo’Nique, Anthony B Jenkins, Miss Lawrence and Demi Singleton.

They are joined by Tasha Smith, Omar Epps, Caleb McLaughlin and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor.

“The Deliverance” centres around Ebony Jackson (Day), a struggling single mother who is fighting her personal demons. She decided to move her family into a new home for a fresh start.

But when strange occurrences inside the house raise the suspicions of Child Protective Services and threaten to tear the family apart, Ebony soon finds herself locked in a battle for her life and the souls of her children.

Inspired by a true story, the film, which was written by David Coggeshall and Elijah Bynum, is a genre-defying take on darkness, possession and finding a higher power.

Meanwhile, Day lends her evocative voice to the production’s soundtrack for the hit song which was originally penned by Ira Stanphill in 1950.

“Andra’s rendition is a masterclass in reverence and renewal,” a statement read.

“Her interpretation weaves together timeless faith and contemporary soul, offering listeners a deeply moving experience.”

Accompanied by delicate piano chords, Day’s voice soars with a raw yet graceful power as she delivers the poignant line, “I don’t know about tomorrow. I just live from day to day".

“It’s a performance that is both heart-stirring and uplifting, resonating with anyone who listens,” the statement added.

This isn't the first time that the Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter, who is also an activist and actress, has worked with Daniels.

She also made her feature-acting debut by portraying Billie Holiday in the American film producer and director’s 2021 biopic, “The United States vs Billie Holiday”.

This role earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress along with a Golden Globe win and a Grammy for the film’s soundtrack.

Earlier this year, Day released her critically acclaimed album “Cassandra (cherith)”, a project that sought to redefine modern R&B with its deep emotional resonance and masterful artistry.

Written and produced by the artist, the album has been hailed as a “modern R&B masterpiece” by “Variety”, who lauded its blend of hip hop, R&B and jazz influences.

“It’s a bold evolution from her debut, showcasing her as one of the most compelling artists of our time,” the statement added.

Day, who has shared the stage with Stevie Wonder, Nick Jonas and Alicia Keys, is also renowned for her 2016 Grammy-nominated track, “Rise Up”, which amassed over one billion streams and an RIAA triple-platinum certification.