Nearly three decades after his passing, Fela Kuti again takes over social media, having been posthumously awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Recording Academy. This honour makes him the first African to receive such recognition, reaffirming that Afrobeat transcends mere musical genre; it is a powerful commentary on societal issues. God’s Acre must be in festive mood.
Fela’s legacy endures through the ongoing conversation surrounding power, pride, and the corruption that plagues everyday life. His music serves as a mirror reflecting the struggles and absurdities faced by ordinary Nigerians, often expressed through tracks like “*Confusion*,” which captures the chaos of urban life, and “*Upside Down*,” where governance appears as precarious as an unsteady table.
Fela was also known for his razor-sharp humour, evident in songs like “*Shakara* (Oloje),” which critiques bravado, and “*Gentleman*,” which mocks the colonial mindset that often equates respectability with foreign influence. His lyrical wit remains a catalyst for debate, showcasing how satire can provoke thought while entertaining.
His songs often resemble investigative journalism, with tracks like “*Expensive Shit*” addressing police harassment directly, while “*Water No Get Enemy*” conveys timeless wisdom that resonates deeply with listeners. Fela was no stranger to violence, and the infamous 1977 attack on his commune, Kalakuta Republic, left an indelible mark on his life and work. The loss of his mother, activist Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, shortly after the attack, led him to respond through poignant compositions such as “*Sorrow, Tears and Blood*.”
Rather than silencing him, the authorities’ attempts to suppress Fela only amplified his voice. Songs like “*Zombie*,” which critiques blind obedience, and “*Mr. Follow Follow*,” a commentary on surveillance, became anthems of resistance. His extensive discography serves as an education on civic engagement and social justice, addressing economic hardship and societal pressures with tracks like “*No Buredi* (No Bread)” and “*J.J.D.* (Parts 1 & 2).”
Fela’s foray into politics, exemplified by his Movement of the People and a presidential run, highlighted his belief that governance is a stage demanding better performances, yet he faced imprisonment under the military regime of Muhammadu Buhari in 1984, earning the title of “prisoner of conscience” from Amnesty International.
Upon his release, Fela returned with songs that took aim at the intertwining of corporate and political corruption, such as “*I.T.T.* (Parts 1 & 2)” and “*Coffin For Head of State*.” He also tackled societal pressures in “*Yellow Fever*,” confronting the fetishization of lighter skin tones. His works, both profound and playful, remain relevant today, as seen in tracks like “*Teacher Don’t Teach Me Nonsense*,” which continues to resonate with contemporary audiences.
Fela’s unapologetic approach to music and activism has solidified his status as an enduring figure in both the music industry and the fight for social justice. With the recent industry recognition, his legacy is not merely one of awards but a refusal to be silenced, a headline that continues to resonate around the globe, as evidenced by live performances like “*V.I.P.* (Live In Berlin).”
As Fela’s discography continues to inspire new generations, his early hits, such as “*Fefe Naa Efe*” and “*Igbe*,” remind us that the pulse of his music remains vibrant, echoing the struggles and triumphs of a nation still in search of its identity. Fela Kuti, the man who turned news into music, still refuses to let the world rest. Fela No Die – the man is still alive!
Here is Hugh Masekela celebrating Fela:
Garbs
Feb 7, 2026