The African Music Library in partnership with historian, Nze Ed Emeka Keazor, on Saturday, October 19 will commence its USA Tour for the screening documentary titled “Ki’Mon: The Eastern Nigeria Afro-Funk Revolution 1970-1980 Film”.
This comes following the success of the Lagos film premiere – and the tour is expected to include stops in Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., New York City among others.
The Chief Librarian of the African Music Library made this known in a statement issued on Friday, August 2.
According to the statement, the tour is supported by the National Council for Arts and Culture, Nigeria – and hosted in partnership with Josplay Music, Piql Africa, and Iba Aije.
It was directed by Ed Keazor and produced by veteran Afro-Funk drummer Eddie Offeyi, with executive producers Muni King-Keazor, and Ed Keazor, and it “promises to be a profound cultural experience”.
This film highlights how survivors of the Nigerian Biafra War used music to heal, emphasising the power of music in helping communities recover from traumatic events such as war.
The statement disclosed that in an era where the contributions of past music heroes are underappreciated, Ki’mon celebrates the key players in Eastern Nigeria’s Afro-Funk scene and sheds light on the vibrant youth culture that emerged post-Biafra.
On what to expect at the Ki’Mon tour premiere, Africa Music Library said: “Each screening will feature a film talkback session and a live music performance by Nigerian Afro-Funk veterans.
“The screenings will feature appearances from legendary Nigerian funk artists including Barry Uba (ex-Apostles, Sonny Okosuns, Semi-Colon), His Highness Eze Walton Arungwa (Super Seven, Apostles), and Lasbrey Colon Ojukwu (Cyclops, In-Crowd, Semi-Colon).”
The hosts, Director Nze Keazor and the President of the African Music Library, Emmanuel Ogala also shared their thoughts on the documentary; with Director Keazor saying: “Afro-Funk was more than just music; it was a cultural revolution that provided solace and strength to a people in recovery.
“Ki’mon! seeks to honor and preserve this legacy, showing the world the enduring impact of this vibrant genre. Through the stories of these incredible musicians, Ki’mon! captures the resilience and creativity of a generation that refused to be silenced by conflict. It is a celebration of their spirit and an inspiration to us all.”
On his part, Ogala stated: “Ki’mon! reminds us that, even in the darkest times, music can be a source of hope and healing. This documentary is a celebration of the human spirit’s ability to triumph over adversity through the power of art. We are excited to share this significant piece of Nigerian history with audiences across the United States. Each screening is an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Afro-Funk and its lasting influence.”
However, testimonials from the Lagos premiere are Veteran Afro-Funk Vocalist, Pastor Ginger Forcha; event attendee, Okwudini Noah and ex-member of the Sweet Breeze Band, Chinyeaka Okoli.
Pastor Forcha said: “It was an unforgettable moment in the history of Afro-Funk music, which was a tool for the rebirth of hope after the Civil War.”
“Watching Ki’mon was a beautiful experience; it felt like stepping into a time machine and experiencing pop culture from a different era,” Noah stated.
Okoli disclosed: “The Ki’mon! film screening event was a big bash! I was overwhelmed with the depth of information as well as the audience’s joyous reaction to testimonies from contributors.”
The African Music Library (AML) was founded in September 2022 and it is a pioneering non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Africa’s rich musical heritage.
AML serves as an indispensable resource for global communities, offering comprehensive access to in-depth information for scholarly research, educational pursuits, business ventures, and personal enrichment.
Lauded by numerous prestigious universities worldwide, AML is featured in academic libraries as a leading authority on African music – and through its innovative ‘Foster program’, it brings invaluable music education to children in underserved communities in Nigeria and Uganda.
The Director, Ed Emeka Keazor is a historian, retired lawyer, and filmmaker and has authored numerous historical works and directed award-winning films.
Keazor is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and the Royal Society for the Arts. His notable films include January 15, 1970: Untold Memories of the Nigeria-Biafra War and Company Yaya?– Lost African Voices of World War 2.
