Nigerian music industry stakeholders gathered at Ebonylife Cinema on November 22, 2025, for an exclusive private screening of Bankulli's groundbreaking documentary, Chronicles of Afrobeats. The event marked a significant milestone in the preservation of Nigerian musical heritage.
A Decade in the Making
Abisagboola Oluseun John, popularly known as Bankulli, conceived the documentary idea nearly ten years ago. The renowned singer-songwriter, talent manager, and music executive spent over six years conducting extensive research across three continents. His investigation included collecting archival materials and conducting interviews with key players in the Afrobeats movement.
Bankulli's unique position in the Nigerian music industry provided him with a front-row seat to witness Afrobeats' remarkable journey. He observed the genre's evolution from its early days in Nigeria to its rise in London and eventual global ascension as a dominant musical force.
Tracing Afrobeats to Its Roots
The documentary's first episode reveals fascinating connections between contemporary Afrobeats and its historical predecessors. Bankulli traces the genre's sonic and spiritual origins back to Highlife music, which itself evolved from European guitars and medleys introduced when Portuguese ships first docked in Accra, modern-day Ghana, during the 14th century.
This meticulous historical approach demonstrates how Afrobeats is fundamentally built on West African sonics. The documentary thoroughly explores all the genres that gradually evolved into the pop music now captivating global audiences.
Preserving Cultural Heritage Through Collective Effort
Bankulli emphasized that documenting Afrobeats requires a communal perspective rather than an individualist approach. He recognizes the contentious nature of cultural documentation and the importance of accurate storytelling.
The documentary features insights from veteran executives, broadcasters, historians, and musicians who have contributed to different eras of Nigerian music. Prominent figures from various generations provide context about Afrobeats' sonic evolution and pivotal moments that shaped the movement.
Bankulli highlighted the immense economic opportunities and soft power that Afrobeats has provided Nigerians. He also noted the cultural identity and confidence the movement has instilled in Africans, particularly those in the diaspora.
"People enjoy Afrobeats and look up to the musicians, yet many people don't know the history of the music, the inspiration and influences behind the sound, and the pivotal moments that got us here," Bankulli stated during the screening. "This is why we need to come together with one voice to protect, guide, and archive the history of Afrobeats."
Global Release and Educational Impact
Ahead of its scheduled 2026 release, Chronicles of Afrobeats will be screened in several international cities including London, New York, Paris, and Toronto. The documentary promises to serve as a crucial educational resource that encourages appreciation of Nigerian music history.
The project aims to acknowledge the contributions and sacrifices of pacesetters whose efforts risk being minimized amidst Afrobeats' recent commercial success. By preserving this knowledge, Bankulli hopes to ensure that future generations understand the rich cultural heritage behind the global phenomenon.
Based on the pilot screening, Chronicles of Afrobeats appears poised to make a major stride in documenting Nigerian music and educating the genre's rapidly expanding global audience about its authentic origins and evolution.
