Award-winning music sensation Adekunle Gold has joined forces with White House Productions to co-produce an ambitious documentary titled The Odyssey, which explores the rich history of Yoruba music over the past century.
The project aims to capture the evolution of Yoruba music, delving into its various subcultures, such as Were, Sakara, Apala, Juju, AfroJuju, and Fuji, among others. With this documentary, Adekunle Gold and his team seek to shed light on the genre’s cultural impact and its influence on global music trends, including Afrobeats.
The production boasts a stellar team led by Executive Producer Bobo Omotayo, whose vision for the project is already creating buzz in the music and film industries. Adekunle Gold, along with co-producers Tosin Ashafa, Papa Omotayo, and acclaimed director Abba Makama, brings his wealth of experience and passion for Yoruba music to the table.
Together, they are crafting an authentic and compelling narrative that traces Yoruba music’s origins, celebrates its pioneers, and examines its continued relevance in shaping contemporary music.
Speaking about the project, Abba Makama highlighted the collaborative energy behind the documentary, saying, “Working with these producers, each with their own 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.”
Adekunle Gold echoed this sentiment, describing the documentary as a unique opportunity to showcase the history and global influence of Yoruba music. “This is more than just a project,” he said. “It’s a chance to celebrate a sound that has shaped and will continue to shape music culture worldwide. I’m thrilled to work with such a passionate team to bring this story to life with authenticity and energy.”
The documentary features an impressive lineup of contributors, including Nigeria’s most revered music historians, scholars, legendary artists, iconic producers, and music journalists. The team has conducted interviews with both past and present figures who have played pivotal roles in Yoruba music’s evolution.
Executive Producer Bobo Omotayo emphasized the project’s dedication to authenticity, stating, “Our goal from the start has been to create a documentary that does justice to Yoruba music by capturing its essence. With Adekunle Gold’s addition, our commitment to diverse and genuine storytelling has only grown stronger.”
In an innovative move, The Odyssey has also partnered with award-winning photographer Andrew Esiebo to enhance the storytelling through visual art. Andrew has joined the crew to document intimate moments with the documentary’s subjects, both in personal settings and during live performances.
These powerful images will form the foundation of a captivating photo exhibition that complements the documentary’s release. The exhibition promises to offer audiences a unique sensory experience, blending visual and auditory elements to honor the depth and vitality of Yoruba music.
The exhibition will debut alongside the documentary’s premiere, creating a multidimensional celebration of Yoruba music’s legacy. Viewers can expect a rich tapestry of stories and visuals that reflect the energy, emotion, and cultural significance of the genre.
The producers have also opened doors to potential partners, inviting innovative collaborations that align with the documentary’s mission to highlight Yoruba music’s global influence.
Currently in production, The Odyssey promises to be an illuminating journey through the history of Yoruba music and its far-reaching impact. With a team of dedicated storytellers and contributors, the documentary is set to captivate audiences with its depth and authenticity
. The release date for The Odyssey will be announced soon, offering fans and music lovers worldwide a chance to celebrate the enduring legacy of Yoruba music.
