Class is officially in session — and Brandy Norwood is bringing her iconic voice to Hillman College.
Netflix has announced that the Grammy Award-winning singer will perform the theme song for its upcoming A Different World sequel series, giving fans a fresh take on one of television’s most recognizable theme songs.
The announcement was made Tuesday, August 11, with Netflix sharing a first look at Brandy recording her version of the beloved opening theme. The new series is set to premiere September 24 on Netflix.
Brandy Is Taking on a Classic
Brandy is stepping into a musical legacy that includes some legendary voices. The original A Different World theme was performed by artists including Phoebe Snow, Aretha Franklin and Boyz II Men during the show’s run.
For the Netflix sequel, Brandy brings her signature R&B sound to the classic song while maintaining the familiar lyrics that longtime fans know and love.
The singer has also shared how meaningful the opportunity is to her.
“Singing this iconic theme song for A Different World means everything to me.”
Brandy explained that the original series was something she watched growing up and that she still remembers the song and the feeling it gave her.
A New Generation Heads to Hillman
The upcoming series follows Deborah Wayne, the daughter of Dwayne Wayne and Whitley Gilbert, as she begins her freshman year at the fictional historically Black Hillman University.
The sequel stars Maleah Joi Moon, alongside Alijah Kai, Cornell Young IV and other young actors. Several stars from the original series, including Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Darryl M. Bell and Cree Summer, are also returning.
The new A Different World is being led by Debbie Allen, who directed and executive produced the original series, with Felicia Pride serving as showrunner and executive producer.
Fans Get a New Take on a Beloved Theme
Brandy’s involvement adds another layer of nostalgia to a sequel already connecting the original A Different World with a new generation.
While the original theme is difficult to top, Brandy says she’s excited to be part of the show’s history and hopes her version does justice to the legacy left by the artists who came before her.
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