Afrobeats: The Backstory
Nigerian TV series
Afrobeats: The Backstory is a documentary series that delves into the rise and global influence of Afrobeats, a genre of music that originated in Nigeria. Directed by Nigerian filmmaker, Ayo Shonaiya, the series was premiered on Netflix on 29 June 2022, offering an in-depth look at the cultural, political, and social landscape that shaped the Afrobeats sound, as well as its growth.
Overview
The series traces the evolution of Afrobeats from its roots in the early 2000s to its rise in global popularity in the 2010s to the present day. The documentary examines how Nigerian pioneers like Fela Kuti laid the groundwork for the contemporary Afrobeats movement, combining traditional African rhythms with funk, jazz, and highlife. Modern Afrobeats, popularized by artists such as Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido, has become a genre that fuses African rhythms with hip-hop, dancehall, and R&B.
Production
Ayo Shonaiya is the director, known for his work as a lawyer, music executive, and producer. Shonaiya brings a unique insider perspective to the series, having been involved in the Afrobeats movement for years. His documentary features a blend of personal interviews, archival footage, and performances that document the journey of Afrobeats as a genre.
The documentary was produced over several years, and it includes interviews with key figures in the music industry, both in Nigeria and globally. The series also sheds light on the role of record labels, promoters, and the African diaspora in pushing the genre beyond the continent.
Episodes
Episode 1: OG Before IG & The 3 Boy Bands -
Afrobeats genre was first introduced in the 1990s with musicians from Nigeria, Ghana and the United Kingdom.
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