“It’s an honour to bring my Punjabi roots"
The upcoming Smurfs movie is set to make history with Punjabi representation on its soundtrack.
The film, produced by Paramount Animation, will feature a Punjabi-inspired remake of Belinda Carlisle’s classic hit ‘Heaven Is A Place On Earth’.
‘Higher Love’ is a fusion of hip-hop and Punjabi music, performed by DESI TRILL, Subhi, Natania, DJ Khaled and Cardi B.
This marks the first time a major Hollywood animated film has included a Punjabi song.
The track blends English vocals from Natania with an all-Punjabi hook by Indian singer-songwriter Subhi.
The mix of mainstream hip-hop and Punjabi culture brings a unique sound to the beloved franchise.
Natania said: “Higher Love is magnetic energy about knowing and celebrating what you bring to the table, it’s self-belief and confidence in who you truly are and wanting to share that frequency with the world.
“I’m so excited to be a part of putting out something so joyful into the universe, representing my roots and my culture alongside such incredible artists.”
Subhi also expressed his pride in bringing Punjabi culture to a global audience:
“It’s an honour to bring my Punjabi roots to this celebratory track and represent my Indian heritage on such a big stage.
“Music is a universal language, and I can’t wait for the world to experience the energy and joy we’ve created together!”
DJ Khaled said: “I’m excited to be a part of this iconic collaboration.
“Growing up I remember always watching the Smurfs.
“It feels like a full-circle moment now having children of my own who watch the Smurfs as well, and I get to be a part of the soundtrack.
“I’m excited to work alongside Cardi B, Natania and Subhi on ‘Higher Love’ for this monumental movie soundtrack.
“It’s inspiring and looking forward to sharing our music with the world.”
Cardi B’s verse in the song takes a more family-friendly approach, staying true to the film’s audience while still keeping her signature style.
She raps: “Everybody need love and I need some too/ Diamonds look sad ‘cause each one blue” before referencing the original hit with the lines: “Make heaven on earth, bae, I think you’re perfect/ Sweet like dessert but do you deserve it/ Think about me, I’m on your mental.”
The release of ‘Higher Love’ coincides with the launch of the film’s trailer, which has already generated excitement, especially with Rihanna voicing Smurfette.
The Smurfs movie will hit cinemas on July 18, 2025.
Listen to ‘Higher Love’








