In an ambitious effort to map the genus of Yoruba and Afrobeat’s music in the last century and its global influence, Nigerian superstar Adekunle Gold co -produced an upcoming documentary entitled “The Odyssey.” Sam-produced by and helped by the award-winning director ABBA T. Makama, the film aims to highlight the timeline for Yoruba music from its basic genres such as Were, Sakara, Apala, Juju and Fuji to its transformative impact on modern afrobeats.
“The Odyssey” has contributions from a strong team under the direction of executive producer Bobo Omotayo. Omotayo is known for his “Fuji: an opera” platform and has been a master for preserving and integrating Yoruba music for contemporary audience. The documentary also takes in Tosin Ashafa and Papa Omotayo as producers, with the acclaimed Nigerian photographer Andrew Esiebo who contributes a visual exhibition that will debut with the film.
Among its prominent voices have “The Odyssey” features Seun moreThe youngest son of the Afrobeat pioneer Fella Kuti, who leads his father’s legendary band Egypt 80. Also join the story is Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey, a Juju music icon, and Benson Idonje, celebrated music historians and Burna Boy’s grandfather. Their insights provide a variety of perspectives on Yoruba Music’s cultural meaning and its lasting legacy.
Adekunle Gold’s commitment as a co -producer adds a dynamic layer to the documentary. The singer, whose genre-defending style mixes Afropop, Fuji, Juju, R&B and Amapiano, is positioned to bridge the gap between the past and the future of Yoruba music. “This documentary is more than just another project; It is an opportunity to highlight the story of a sound that has been shaped and will continue to shape music culture around the world, says Gold.
Director ABBA T. Maka, known for such films such as “Green White Green” and “The Lost Okoroshi”, is not a stranger to use his lens to explore Nigerian culture. “We have already taken some incredibly fascinating interviews,” says Makama. “Having Adekunle Gold on board gives a modern touch that connects this story to a global audience.”
The scope of the documentary is as expansive as the subject and promises to investigate Yoruba Music’s development over generations and its influence on afrobeats. Interviews with musicians, producers, academics and historians aim to deliver an engrossing story, while Esiebo’s associated photography exhibition offers an intimate insight into the life of the artists that shapes this sound.
Executive producer Bobo Omotayo emphasized the importance of authentic story. “Our goal from the beginning has been to make a documentary that gives justice to Yoruba music by showing off its being,” says Omotayo. “With Adekunle Gold’s commitment, we add a modern perspective to an already rich story.”
The film’s edition will be accompanied by a groundbreaking exhibition of Esiebo’s work, mixing hearing and visual story to honor Yoruba Music’s life and energy. Esiebo’s collection will highlight private and on stage for the found artists and create a multidimensional experience for the viewers.
As Afrobeats continues to dominate the global stages, “The Odyssey” tries to remind the audience of their roots while celebrating its rise. The documentary aims to place Yoruba music not only as a regional phenomenon but as an important force in the development of global music.
