Nigerian singer Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, known as ‘Wizkid’ is the subject of the documentary Wizkid: Long Live Lagos, featured in the HBO “Music Box” series created by Bill Simmons.
Directed by Karam Gill (Untrapped: The Story of Lil Baby, Supervillian: The Making of Tekashi 6ix9ine), Wizkid: Long Live Lagos debuts Thursday, December 11 (9:00 –10:25 p.m. ET/PT) on HBO.
Wizkid: Long Live Lagos explores how art and music have the power to shift global perception and awareness through the story of Nigerian superstar Wizkid as he prepares for his groundbreaking performance at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, England. One of the most commercially successful African musicians of all time, Wizkid’s talent and authenticity transcend borders and brings African music to the world stage, challenging the stereotypes in Western media and reclaiming African identity.
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Wizkid rose from humble beginnings to become an influential, internationally recognized Grammy-winning musician. With no music industry infrastructure in Nigeria, he was fueled by raw talent, determination, and his belief that success would not only change his and his family’s lives, but also the global perception of Nigeria and the continent of Africa. Wizkid’s story takes us across Africa and London, meeting the fans and friends who support him, and exploring the longstanding, complex history between the United Kingdom and Nigeria and the aftermath of its colonial past. As the internet and streaming platforms enable world music to smash through borders, Wizkid uses his voice to challenge colonial legacies, and shift the narrative to offer a fuller picture of present-day Africa and its cultural influence. As the first African artist to headline Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Wizkid’s stardom underscores how global recognition is a form of rebellion, a way to amplify and honor both African culture and African pride.
Featured in the film are Femi Anikulapo-Kuti, musician; Jada Pollock, manager & partner; Julie Adenuga, UK radio host; Seni Saraki, CEO, Native Magazine; Sunday Are, first manager; Starboy, fan; Karen Binns, creative director and stylist; Tops, tour manager.
The “Music Box” series, which debuted on HBO in 2021, is a collection of documentary films exploring pivotal moments in the music world.
Upcoming films in this “Music Box” installment include:
“It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley” (December 4): Through rare archival footage and deeply personal accounts, this documentary explores the extraordinary life, singular talent, and untimely death of Jeff Buckley — the enigmatic artist whose haunting voice and only album, “Grace,” left an indelible mark on music history; directed by Amy Berg
“Counting Crows: Have You Seen Me Lately?” (December 18): A revealing portrait of Counting Crows frontman Adam Duritz, and the emotional and creative toll a band’s meteoric rise can have on a musical artist. The documentary traces how he navigated early fame while crafting a raw, defiant follow-up to the band’s iconic debut album; directed by Amy Scott.
“Happy And You Know It” (December 25): A joyful and surprising journey into the fascinating world of toddler pop, the film explores why kids’ music is so catchy, can be deeply meaningful, and how AI is taking hold and shaping the industry. The film features appearances by The Wiggles, Laurie Berkner, and other musicians; directed by Penny Lane.
Watch the official trailer for Wizkid: Long Live Lagos above.
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