MUSIC
Celebrating Fela Kuti: A Week of Storytelling on the Afrobeat Icon's Sound, Musical Rebellion, and Enduring Legacy
As the world marks Fela Kuti's 87th posthumous birthday this week, OkayAfrica celebrates the legendary musician's life and legacy with stories that explore his lasting impact on music, culture, and activism.
Twenty-seven years after his passing, Nigerian musician Fela Kuti’s legacy continues to reverberate across the world.
by Frans Schellekens/Redferns via Getty Images
Fela Kuti was more than a musician. He was an unconventional activist, a towering voice against imperialism, and a fierce advocate for Black liberation. The man was a movement. He was a fearless fighter who challenged military rule, corruption, and Western domination, using music as his most powerful weapon.
Kuti lived life entirely on his own terms. His choices often defied convention, but he earned the respect and admiration of many for what he stood for, fought for, and, as some believe, died for. Twenty-eight years after his passing, his life and legacy continue to inspire generations across the world.
In honor of his 87th posthumous birthday on October 15, OkayAfrica is rolling out a week of stories — from October 13 to 17 — spotlighting the Afrobeat creator’s life, activism, and enduring legacy.
Bookmark this page as links to all stories will be updated here daily.
At Afrobeat Rebellion, Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s Artistry and Legacy Come Alive
In this article, OkayAfrica speaks exclusively with the curators and artists behind a 12-week immersive exhibition honoring the life, legacy, and artistry of one of Africa’s most inventive and politically active artists. Read here.
10 Hip-Hop Records You Didn't Know Sampled Fela Kuti
Kuti's music has been a sample trove for many musicians, but none more than rappers. Due to their impeccable jazzy arrangements, hip-hop artists have often felt comfortable flipping it to contain their bars. This article lists 10 of them. Read here.
The 10 Best Fela Kuti Songs
In this listicle, veteran DJ Rich Medina, who introduced an American generation to Afrobeat, ranks the 10 best Fela Kuti songs. Read here.
Fela Kuti Week Continues With This Exciting Playlist
The legendary Nigerian musician and composer would have turned 87 this week. To continue an activity-filled week in his honor, OkayAfrica put together a three-hour-plus playlist of his best songs. Check it out here.
Jad Abumrad’s New Podcast Series Delves into the Life, Times & Complicated Legacy of Fela Kuti
On the Afrobeat pioneer’s posthumous birthday, Jad Abumrad, host of Fela Kuti: Fear No Man, tells OkayAfrica about the process of putting together the thoroughly researched, 12-episode series. Read the interview and check out the first two episodes of the podcast here.
Fela Kuti’s “Colonial Mentality” Was a Musical Rebellion Against the West
In this essay, writer Ime Ekpo locates the pulse between Fela Kuti’s music and the social, political and existential concerns of an entire nation. Read it here.
The Incredible Stories Behind Lemi Ghariokwu's Iconic Fela Kuti Album Covers
In this article, Nigerian artist and illustrator Lemi Ghariokwu shares not only his iconic process, but also the riveting relationship he shared with Afrobeat creator Fela Kuti. Read here.
Shop OkayAfrica's Fela Kuti Collection here.
