Fela Anikulapo Kuti (1938 to 1997) was a Yoruba musician, bandleader and activist who created Afrobeat and used it to confront corruption and military rule in Nigeria. His music, his clothes and his defiance made him one of the most influential artists Africa has produced. This guide covers his life, sound and legacy.
Early Life
Fela was born Olufela Ransome-Kuti in Abeokuta on 15 October 1938. His mother was the activist Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti. He studied music in London, where he formed his first band, Koola Lobitos, before returning to Nigeria.
The Birth of Afrobeat
After a visit to the United States in 1969, Fela blended Yoruba rhythms, highlife, jazz and funk into Afrobeat, working closely with drummer Tony Allen. His bands, Africa 70 and later Egypt 80, played long, hypnotic songs with layered horns and call-and-response vocals. Read more about the genre in our guide to Yoruba music.
Kalakuta Republic and the Shrine
Fela declared his compound in Lagos the Kalakuta Republic, and ran a club known as the Shrine where he performed. His outspoken songs, such as “Zombie”, criticised the army, and in 1977 soldiers raided Kalakuta. His mother was seriously injured and died the following year.
Yoruba Spirituality and Style
Fela drew on Yoruba tradition in his names, rhythms and beliefs. Learn about the spiritual background in Yoruba religion explained.
Legacy
Fela died in Lagos on 2 August 1997. His sons Femi and Seun Kuti continue the Afrobeat tradition, and his influence runs through today’s global Afrobeats scene. The Recording Academy honoured him with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Read more about the talking drum in Yoruba bands and meet other legends in famous Yoruba people. For a biography, see Wikipedia’s Fela Kuti page.
Where to Start Listening
- Zombie (1976): his sharp satire of military discipline.
- Water No Get Enemy (1975): a long, groove-driven song widely loved by fans.
- Expensive Shit (1975): a song about a famous run-in with the police.
- Gentleman (1973): a witty look at imitation and identity.
- Confusion (1975): a long, instrumental-heavy piece that shows the Afrobeat sound at its fullest.
Fela’s songs were often more than ten minutes long, with extended instrumental sections before the vocals. Play them on a good sound system to hear the layers of bass, horns and percussion.
Fela Today
Every October, fans gather for Felabration in Lagos, and you can read how Yoruba apala artists also share the stage in apala music explained.
Fela Kuti FAQs
Who created Afrobeat?
Fela Kuti, working with drummer Tony Allen, created Afrobeat in the late 1960s and 1970s.
What was the Kalakuta Republic?
It was Fela’s compound in Lagos, which he declared independent of Nigerian authority.
Who are Fela’s musician children?
Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti.
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