January 23, 2025 — Acclaimed Nigerian singer-songwriter and global Afrobeats sensation Adekunle Gold has announced his involvement as co-producer in an exciting incoming documentary titled The Odyssey. This landmark film which is ongoing in production celebrates 100 years of Yoruba music, its remarkable evolution across genres, and its profound influence on modern-day Afrobeats.
Alongside Co-producers, Bobo Omotayo, Abba T Makama, Tosin Ashafa and Papa Omotayo, Adekunle Gold sets production in motion for The Odyssey, an immersive journey through the rich tapestry of Yoruba musical traditions. It highlights the genre’s enduring legacy, from traditional folk melodies to its infusion into contemporary sounds that have shaped the global music landscape. Featuring rare archival footage, insightful interviews with legendary artists, and captivating performances, the documentary aims to shed light on the cultural roots that continue to inspire a new generation of musicians.
Adekunle Gold, whose music seamlessly blends Afro-pop, highlife, and traditional Yoruba influences, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “As a proud Yoruba artist, I feel honored to contribute to a film that pays homage to the pioneers of our music and celebrates the unbreakable thread connecting our past to the present. The Odyssey is not just a documentary—it’s a celebration of our identity, resilience, and creativity.”
Photo Credit: Lakin Ogunbanwo
The documentary is speculated to feature appearances from an array of iconic artists, music historians, and cultural commentators, offering a comprehensive exploration of Yoruba music’s influence on modern-day Afrobeats. Viewers can expect to see how foundational genres like Apala, Fuji, Juju, and Afrobeat have informed and enriched the contemporary Afrobeats movement, which has taken the world by storm.
