Rihanna Returns to Music with New Track 'Friend of Mine' for Smurfs Movie

Rihanna's Musical Comeback

Rihanna is set to make her much-anticipated return to the music scene after a three-year break. She has unveiled her new song titled 'Friend of Mine,' which will be featured in the upcoming Smurfs film. This track showcases a dance rhythm influenced by Afro beats, and a teaser was released on Wednesday to give fans a sneak peek.

The teaser opens with Rihanna in the recording studio, dressed in a blue jacket and adorned with blue beads in her hair. As she records, she can be heard singing, 'You’re looking like a friend of mine.' The clip also provides a glimpse into the film's plot, where the inhabitants of Smurf Village venture into the real world to rescue Papa Smurf, voiced by John Goodman, from the clutches of the evil wizard Gargamel, portrayed by J. P. Karliak. This new release marks her first since 'Lift Me Up,' which was part of the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack in 2022.

'Friend of Mine' is scheduled to drop on May 16, while the film is set to premiere in theaters on July 18.

new #SmurfsMovie trailer 🩵 featuring “Friend Of Mine” from the Smurfs soundtrack out friday. pre-save now. 🪩🎵 pic.twitter.com/c2keWCVwYN

— Rihanna (@rihanna) May 14, 2025

In addition to her musical contribution, Rihanna is also taking on the role of producer and will lend her voice to the film alongside a talented cast that includes John Goodman, James Corden, Nick Offerman, and Sandra Oh.

Earlier this month, Rihanna made headlines when she appeared at the Met Gala 2025 showcasing her baby bump. She and her partner A$AP Rocky welcomed their first child, RZA, in May 2022, followed by their second child, Riot Rose, in August 2023.