“Maradona” Goes Global: Niniola’s Sound Reaches Beyoncé’s “The Lion King: The Gift”

Niniolamade global waves when her breakout hit “Maradona” was sampled byBeyoncé for Find Your Way Back, a track featured on The Lion King: The Gift.

The moment marked a major crossover point for Afrobeats and global pop culture. “Maradona”, known for its infectious Afro-house rhythm and Niniola’s playful, commanding delivery, carries a distinctive sonic identity that helped it stand out across African music scenes. That same energy found its way into Beyoncé’s reinterpretation, reimagined within a broader, cinematic soundscape.

By incorporating elements of Niniola’s record, Beyoncé didn’t just borrow a sound—she spotlighted it on one of the world’s biggest stages. The Lion King: The Gift was widely praised for celebrating African music and collaborating with African artists, and the influence of Maradona became part of that cultural bridge.

For Niniola, the sample reinforced her impact beyond borders. It showed how deeply Afro-house had begun to travel—and how a sound rooted in Lagos could resonate all the way into Hollywood’s global storytelling.

Ultimately, Find Your Way Back stands as another example of Afrobeats’ growing influence, with Maradona quietly helping shape one of the most high-profile music projects of its time.

Don’t miss your chance to experience “Find Your Way Back (The Lion King: The Gift)”—you can listen to it now and enjoy the track from your favourite music platforms. Join the conversation and let the rhythm take over!

You can listen to Beyoncé – Find Your Way Back (The Lion King: The Gift) here.