SINGER-songwriter Adekunle Gold has joined the production team of ‘The Odyssey’, a documentary film, as co-producer.
The documentary film is now in production. It is an in-depth investigation into the cultural legacy and musical tradition of the Yoruba people. It traces the history and evolution of different subcultures within Yoruba music, including Were, Sakara, Apala, Juju, AfroJuju, and Fuji, among others.
Executive producer Bobo Omotayo, who announced Adekunle Gold’s onboarding as a co-producer, explained that the documentary will take viewers on an immersive journey through the captivating rhythms and rich history of Yoruba music, revealing its profound influence on the global music scene and role in shaping the emergence of Afrobeats.
Apart from Omotayo and the renowned musician, the documentary’s stellar cast of producers also includes Tosin Ashafa, Papa Omotayo, and director Abba Makama, whose debut feature film, ‘Green White Green’ premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2016.
Omotayo, the producer of’FUJI: A Opera’, said Makama will enhance the documentary’s storyline with his knowledge of the industry, network, and love of Yoruba music.
“This formidable group is committed to providing an exciting, genuine look at our history, culture, and where we’re going from here,” noted Omotayo. He also promised that ‘The Odyssey’ will take viewers on an illuminating journey through the history of Yoruba music, its cultural significance, and its impact on Afrobeats.”
Commenting on the production featuring some of Nigeria’s eminent music historians, academics, chart-topping artists, music legends, iconic producers, record label owners, and music journalists, Makama said: “Working with these producers, each with their backgrounds and perspectives, has enlivened the creative process. We’ve already captured some incredibly fascinating interviews, and Adekunle Gold’s involvement adds a new dynamic layer to the story.”
Omotayo added, “Our goal from the start has been to make a documentary that gives justice to Yoruba music by showcasing its essence. Adekunle Gold’s addition to our team strengthens our dedication to genuine and diverse storytelling.”
Adekunle Gold expressed delight at working on the project. “This documentary is more than another project; it’s an opportunity to highlight the history of a sound that has shaped and will continue to shape music culture worldwide. Working with the rest of the team, I can’t wait to bring this story to life with authenticity, energy, and enthusiasm,” he said
Despite brimming with talents, the production team said it was open to further collaborations, disclosing that it works with award-winning photographer Andrew Esiebo, who captures unique and intimate moments with the subjects in the documentary in private settings and onstage.
“This captivating collection of images will highlight a distinctive exhibition that underscores these figures’ profound emotion and energy. The exhibition will open alongside the premiere of the documentary, offering audiences a vibrant experience that honours the essence of Yoruba music through visual and auditory elements,” said Omotayo.
He said the team will announce the documentary’s release date soon.
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