Netflix has announced that Brandy is performing the theme song for its A Different World sequel series, reimagining the original theme originally sung by Aretha Franklin.
What does Brandy say about performing the ‘A Different World’ theme song?
Brandy told Netflix’s Tudum, “Singing this iconic theme song for A Different World means everything to me. It was one of those shows that I had to watch every time it came on. I remember the song and how it made me feel.”
She called the original theme “hard to top” but said, per Tudum, that it “feels amazing to be a part of the legacy,” adding, “I just hope I can do it as much justice as Ms. Franklin.”
Brandy also told Tudum that the original series shaped her as a kid: “A Different World inspired me as a kid. It made me feel like I could go out into the world and become my own person. With hard work and dedication, I could make my dreams come true. It also inspired me to want to do more acting. Just seeing people that looked like me on television made me dream bigger.”
What is ‘A Different World’ about?
Per the official description, the series “returns to Hillman College with a new class stepping onto campus — and beloved faces coming home.” At the center is Deborah Wayne (Maleah Joi Moon), “Whitley and Dwayne’s lovingly sheltered youngest daughter, a free spirit with a flair for the spotlight and a big heart who’s still figuring out her own path at Hillman.”
Per the official description, she’s joined by “a new generation that reflects the breadth of Black life on campus”: Rashida Duvall (Alijah Kai), “a first-gen criminal justice major”; Shaquille Johnson (Cornell Young IV), “a five-star athlete choosing legacy”; Amir Rodale (Jordan Aaron Hall), “a sharp psych major better at fixing everyone else’s problems than facing his own”; Hazel Henry (Kennedi Reece), “a church-raised small-town girl defining her own values”; and Kojo Achebe (Chibuikem Uche), “a Ghanaian-Nigerian fashion entrepreneur finding the courage to follow his vision.”
Who returns for ‘A Different World’?
Original cast members Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Cree Summer and Darryl M. Bell reprise their roles as Whitley Gilbert, Dwayne Wayne, Freddie Brooks and Ron Johnson. Dawnn Lewis, who co-wrote the original theme song, returns as a guest star.
Felicia Pride serves as creator, showrunner and executive producer. Debbie Allen, who directed for the original series, executive produces and directs the premiere episode, with additional episodes directed by Tiffany Johnson, Angela Barnes, Nefertite Nguvu and Bille Woodruff. Tom Werner, Reggie Rock Bythewood, Gina Prince-Bythewood and Mandy Summers also executive produce, with Derryck “Big Tank” Thornton serving as music supervisor.
When does ‘A Different World’ premiere?
A Different World premieres with all 10 episodes Sept. 24, only on Netflix.
Check out the Brandy version of the theme song below:
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