Afrobeats, one of Africa’s most influential cultural exports, is set to gain further global attention as industry stakeholders converge in New York for the screening of Chronicles of Afrobeats, a project documenting the evolution and international impact of the genre.

The event, scheduled for Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the iconic SOB’s NYC, will feature an exclusive screening followed by a high-level panel discussion involving key figures shaping the Afrobeats movement across continents.

Founded by Abisagboola Oluseun John, professionally known as Bankulli, the initiative aims to provide a deeper narrative into the roots, growth, and future trajectory of Afrobeats, which has grown from a regional sound into a dominant force on the global music stage.

Speaking ahead of the event, Dr Amanda Ota, a partner at Loud in Africa, emphasized the cultural and economic significance of the genre, stating, “Afrobeats is no longer just a sound; it is a global cultural movement that continues to shape identity, influence markets, and open new pathways for African creatives worldwide.”

Also lending his voice, Abass Mubarak Akeju noted the importance of documenting the journey, saying, “Every great movement deserves to have its story told, and Afrobeats is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of African storytelling on the global stage.”

The panel session will bring together a diverse lineup of industry experts including Bankulli of Bankulli Entertainment, Dr. Amanda Ota of Loud in Africa, Robert Schwartz of Whomag, South African radio personality Unathi Nkayi, and Priscila Santana of Summerstage.

Organisers say the event will not only celebrate the milestones of Afrobeats but also provide a platform for critical conversations around its sustainability, ownership, and continued expansion in international markets.

With its increasing dominance across charts, festivals, and global collaborations, Afrobeats continues to redefine Africa’s place in the global music industry reinforcing the notion that every journey indeed has a beginning.