Gates, who was named one of Time Magazine's "25 Most Influential Americans" in 1997, said this is the first time an African-American has hosted a program looking back on African culture.
"You might think you know the subject but after he's taken you through it, it only leaves you with more questions," PBS' Wilson said.
The six-part series will run Monday through Wednesday from 9 to 11 p.m. on PBS.