Houston, Texas — Following the incredible success of the Lagos film premiere, the African Music Library, in collaboration with historian Nze Ed Emeka Keazor, is set to embark on a USA screening tour for the documentary, Ki'mon!: The Eastern Nigerian Afro-Funk Revolution 1970-1980. This film highlights how survivors of the Nigerian Biafra War used music to heal, emphasizing the power of music in helping communities recover from traumatic events such as war.

Supported by the National Council for Arts and Culture, Nigeria, the tour will include stops in Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., and New York City. The tour is hosted in partnership with Josplay Music, Piql Africa, and Iba Aije. Directed by Ed Keazor and produced by veteran Afro-Funk drummer Eddie Offeyi, with executive producers Muni King-Keazor, and Ed Keazor, this documentary promises to be a profound cultural experience.

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.

Additional dates and locations will be announced soon.

What to Expect at the Ki’mon Tour Premiere: 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).

Director Nze Keazor: "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."

Emmanuel Ogala, President of the African Music Library: "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."

Pastor Ginger Forcha, Veteran Afro-Funk Vocalist: “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.”

Event Attendee Okwudini Noah: “Watching Ki’mon was a beautiful experience; it felt like stepping into a time machine and experiencing pop culture from a different era.”

Chinyeaka Okoli, Ex-Member of the Sweet Breeze Band: “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.”

African Music Library (AML): Founded in September 2022, the African Music Library (AML) 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. Through its innovative Foster program, AML brings invaluable music education to children in underserved communities in Nigeria and Uganda.

Ed Keazor: Ed Emeka Keazor is a historian, retired lawyer, and filmmaker. He 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.

For partnership, inquiries, or to connect: Email: librarian@africanmusiclibrary.orgInstagram: @amlbyjosplay Twitter: @amlbyjosplay Website: africanmusiclibrary.org

Kimon USA Tour Banner presents a maiden announcement of the Kimon USA Tour to the public.

PRESS RELEASE: African Music Library announces USA tour for KiMon documentary

Kimon USA Tour Banner presents a maiden announcement of the Kimon USA Tour to the public.

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