When music lovers and industry leaders gathered on the 20th of November at Entertainment Week Africa, they experienced a moment many had anticipated.
Bankulli unveiled an abridged screening of Episode One of his new documentary series titled Chronicles of Afrobeats.
The episode, known as The Sound, offered an exciting look into how what began as local rhythms evolved into one of the most powerful cultural movements shaping global music today.
The screening invited audiences to connect with the roots of a sound that has travelled across the world while holding firm to its African heartbeat.
From the beginning, the documentary captured the viewer with captivating visuals and storytelling. It revealed how genres such as Fuji, Juju, Highlife and Afrobeat created the rhythm and identity that defined generations of musical expression.
It also showed how these styles absorbed additional influences from electronic music in the 1980s and from reggae and dancehall in the 1990s.
Through this journey, the episode highlighted how creativity and experimentation led to the rise of Afrobeats in the early 2000s. The film presented this history in a simple and fascinating way that viewers enjoyed.
Speaking during the screening, Bankulli said, “Chronicles of Afrobeats is a tribute to the pioneers who shaped the heartbeat of our culture. This is not just about music, it is about identity, memory and celebrating the people who made this sound possible.”
What made the screening even more compelling was the lineup of music icons who appeared in the documentary. Viewers heard from influential figures including Don Jazzy, ID Cabassa, Zlatan Ibile, Mayorkun, KK Ogungbe, Tiwa Savage, Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti among others.
Their reflections offered powerful insight into how Afrobeats grew from local energy into international influence. Each appearance deepened the story and delivered emotional connection to the journey.
In addition to its historical value, the documentary celebrated the spirit of innovation. It showcased the bold choices made by early creatives who pushed boundaries, learned from global sounds and developed a genre that now drives major international festivals and chart-topping records.
This message of possibility energised emerging artists who attended the screening, inspiring them to dream bigger and preserve the authenticity that defines African sound.
Sharing his inspiration for the project, Bankulli added, “Afrobeats is the soundtrack of resilience. It carries a story of survival, ambition and cultural pride. I wanted to document history so that the next generation understands the roots before writing their own chapter.”
Guests at the screening also experienced the official trailer for the series and were part of a live conversation with Bankulli.
This session explored the legacy and future of the genre and gave attendees an opportunity to engage directly with the creator.
Participants included artists, producers, executives and investors who continue to shape the creative economy across Africa and beyond.
Looking ahead, Bankulli shared his vision saying, “This documentary marks the beginning of a broader cultural archive. Our aim is to ensure every voice behind this movement is honoured. Afrobeats may have crossed borders, but its spirit remains truly African.”
With powerful storytelling, cultural celebration and industry insight at its core, the Chronicles of Afrobeats screening stood out as one of the most exciting highlights of Entertainment Week Africa, delivering a memorable and deeply inspiring experience for everyone passionate about music and its evolution.
