Fela Anikulapo Kuti: The man who inspired a generation of Nigerian musicians

Fela Anikulapo Kuti was an interesting man in many ways, but perhaps the most interesting aspect of his life was how his cultural impact continues to resonate today. It’s difficult to find a Nigerian artist who doesn’t credit Fela with inspiring them in some way or another, whether it’s due to his music style or his approach to politics and human rights. Some people even went so far as to name their children after him!

Who was Fela Anikulapo kuti

Fela Anikulapo Kuti is a legendary figure in Nigerian music and culture, remembered as the father of Afrobeat. Born in 1938, Fela first gained prominence in the early 1970s after returning to Nigeria from his studies in the United States. He quickly became a driving force in the Nigerian music scene, inspiring a generation of musicians with his innovative blend of jazz, funk and traditional African sounds.

Fela's music was often political in nature and he used his platform to fight for social justice and speak out against corruption and oppression. His influence spread throughout the country, inspiring many to join the fight for equal rights and an end to military rule. He even formed his own political party, the Movement of the People, in 1979.

Throughout his career, Fela wrote and recorded dozens of albums, many of which remain hugely popular today. His influence can still be heard in the work of many contemporary Nigerian artists, including D'Banj, Femi Kuti, Wizkid, Yemi Alade and many others. The legacy of Fela's music lives on and continues to inspire new generations of Nigerian musicians.

What did he do?

Fela Anikulapo Kuti was one of the most influential Nigerian musicians and performers of the late 20th century. His influence reaches beyond his death in 1997, inspiring many of today's Nigerian musicians. He is widely regarded as a pioneer of the Afrobeat genre of music, combining traditional West African styles with jazz, funk, and other popular music styles.

Fela's songs were politically charged, often tackling issues of oppression and injustice. He used his music to speak out against dictatorships and corrupt regimes, making him a powerful voice for the people of Nigeria. His work has become a major source of inspiration for contemporary Nigerian artists.

Some of the most popular Nigerian songs that have been inspired by Fela include Wizkid's Ojuelegba, Burna Boy's African Giant and Davido's Aye. These songs all draw from the influence of Fela Anikulapo Kuti, bringing his spirit and message to a new generation. Fela's influence can also be heard in the work of other notable Nigerian artists such as 2Baba and Asa.

Fela Anikulapo Kuti will forever remain an icon in the history of Nigerian music, inspiring generations of artists and listeners alike. Through his music, he continues to speak for the people of Nigeria, advocating for justice and freedom.

How did he inspire Nigerian musicians?

Fela Anikulapo Kuti was a Nigerian musician, activist and cultural icon whose influence is still felt in the country today. He was known for his unique style of Afrobeat music, which combined traditional Yoruba rhythms with funk and jazz. He was also renowned for his outspoken activism against injustice and oppression, speaking out against colonialism and military rule in Nigeria.

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Fela’s music began to gain popularity in Nigeria. His songs, which included socially conscious lyrics about the issues of the day, resonated with many Nigerians who saw in him a voice for their own struggles. His popularity grew over the years and soon, musicians from across the country began to incorporate Fela’s Afrobeat sound into their own music. 

Today, Fela’s influence is evident in the popular Nigerian music of today. Many Nigerian artists draw inspiration from his unique style and lyrical themes, including Wizkid, Burna Boy and Davido. Fela’s influence can be heard in songs such as Burna Boy’s African Giant, Wizkid’s Ojuelegba and Davido’s Aye. All three songs include elements of Afrobeat and social commentary that reflect the legacy of Fela Anikulapo Kuti.

Fela Anikulapo Kuti is undoubtedly one of the most influential figures in Nigerian music. His music has inspired generations of musicians and his legacy continues to live on in the popular Nigerian music of today.

What are some popular Nigerian songs inspired by Fela Kuti?

Fela Anikulapo Kuti was a legendary Nigerian musician, political activist and human rights advocate who revolutionized the Nigerian music scene and helped to shape the sound of modern African music. He is considered one of the most influential African musicians of all time, having fused traditional Yoruba music with funk, jazz, and traditional African drums.

Fela’s influence on the Nigerian music scene is undeniable, and many popular Nigerian songs today are inspired by his work. Here are just a few examples of songs that have been inspired by Fela Kuti:

1. Femi Kuti’s Beng Beng Beng: This song pays homage to Fela Kuti’s signature sound, blending traditional Yoruba beats with modern funk. The song was released in 2013 and quickly became a club hit in Nigeria.

2. Seun Kuti & Egypt 80’s African Soldier: This song was released as part of Seun Kuti’s first studio album in 2014. It samples classic Fela Kuti tunes and has a clear message about Pan-Africanism and the importance of respecting African culture and heritage.

3. Burna Boy’s Fela Kuti: This 2013 track from the Nigerian singer-songwriter pays tribute to Fela’s legacy and uses elements of traditional Nigerian rhythms and beats to create an original sound.

4. Wizkid’s Jaiye Jaiye: Wizkid’s single Jaiye Jaiye has a distinctly African sound and draws heavily on Fela Kuti’s influence. The song was released in 2013 and quickly became one of the biggest hits of the year.

These are just a few examples of the many Nigerian songs that have been inspired by Fela Anikulapo Kuti. As his influence continues to spread throughout Africa, it's certain that we will hear more great music inspired by his legacy.

Double Wahala Oritse Femi

The song Double Wahala by Oritse Femi is a perfect homage to the music of Fela Anikulapo Kuti. Fela was a Nigerian musician and activist who was widely known for his eclectic and challenging Afrobeat music, as well as his social activism which tackled issues such as corruption, police brutality and injustice.

Fela's music has inspired countless artists around the world, with Oritse Femi's Double Wahala being one of the most popular examples. This catchy single draws upon elements of Fela's signature sound and includes some of his iconic lyrics. The song resonated with many Nigerians who were able to relate to its message of striving for a better life despite difficult circumstances.

In addition to its popularity in Nigeria, Double Wahala was also awarded the Most Popular Song of the Year at the 2014 City People Entertainment Awards, as well as Indigenous Artist of the Year at the 2014 Nigeria Entertainment Awards. It is a testament to Fela's enduring influence on Nigerian music, and his impact on the nation's culture. Oritse Femi's powerful cover of Double Wahala is a fitting tribute to the legendary musician, and stands as one of the most successful Nigerian songs inspired by Fela Anikulapo Kuti.

Burna Boy

Burna Boy's music is an ode to Fela Kuti. From the opening track of his critically-acclaimed album African Giant, Anybody, we hear a clear reference to Fela's Shakara. He seamlessly weaves his lyricism with a style that pays homage to Fela Kuti's Afrobeat genre.

On Soke, Burna Boy also puts on his Fela Kuti hat, rapping and singing with a combination of swagger and ease that makes it clear he has been inspired by the master. Lyrically, the track references the struggles of the Nigerian people against oppressive systems. The song is a rallying cry for the people to rise up and fight for what is rightfully theirs, something that Fela was an outspoken advocate for.

Another track off African Giant, Another Story, is a beautiful collaboration between Burna Boy and Ghanaian artist M.anifest. The song draws its lyrical influence from Fela Kuti's classic Sorrow Tears and Blood. Both artists use their respective countries' history as a backdrop to discuss the current state of African society, touching on topics such as corruption, poverty, inequality and injustice.

Burna Boy's greatest tribute to Fela however comes in the form of his hit single Ye. On this song he explores themes such as the ills of materialism and superficiality that can overtake one's soul if not careful. The sound of the song echoes with Fela's signature afrobeat style, reinforcing the connection to his influence. 

Burna Boy's love for Fela Kuti is undeniable, and his music is a fitting testament to the Nigerian legend's legacy. With his sincere lyrics and captivating melodies, Burna Boy has taken up Fela's mantle and continues to spread his message of revolution and justice through song.

Tiwa Savage 49 99

The track 49-99 by Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage is a direct homage to the legendary Fela Anikulapo Kuti, who is widely considered one of the most influential musicians in Nigeria. The title of the song was inspired by one of Fela’s songs, Shuffering and Shmiling, in which he declared 49 sitting 99 standing. 

In her track, Tiwa Savage brags about the level of accomplishment she has worked so hard to acquire and her never-ending hustle. She captures the spirit of Fela Kuti, both in terms of his musical style and his message of using music as a tool for social and political change. The song is an ode to his legacy and is a testament to the impact he had on future generations of Nigerian musicians. 

Tiwa Savage’s single also highlights her own success as a leading artist in Nigerian music today, cementing her status as one of the country’s most successful female artists. Through her music, Tiwa Savage has helped to ensure that Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s legacy lives on.

Jaiya Jaiye ft Femi Kuti – Wizkid

Fela Anikulapo Kuti has been an inspiration for generations of Nigerian musicians, and Wizkid is no exception. His song Jaiye Jaiye, which features Femi Kuti (Fela’s eldest son and Grammy-nominated musician), takes a sample from Femi’s song Lady and gives it the perfect amount of oomph. 

The lyrics of the song draw from Fela’s lyrics about a woman’s irritation at being referred to as woman instead of lady. With Jaiye Jaiye, Wizkid was able to start what would eventually become an incredibly successful career in Nigerian music.

The influence of Fela Anikulapo Kuti can be felt throughout the Nigerian music industry, and Wizkid's song Jaiye Jaiye is a perfect example of this. By taking the sample from Femi’s song and adding his own special touch to it, Wizkid was able to create a song that embodied the essence of Fela’s music. It is no wonder that this track kickstarted what would eventually become a successful career for Wizkid.

Temper (Remix) ft Burna Boy – Skales

The inclusion of passages from Fela Anikulapo Kuti's iconic song Sorrow Tears and Blood in the remix of Skales' Temper was a stroke of genius. The lyrics speak to a generation of Nigerian musicians who were inspired by Fela's music. The ability to reach out to an audience by connecting with their roots is a powerful thing, and this is exactly what Burna Boy achieved with his addition to the song.

Not only did Burna Boy enhance the track with his additional verses, but he also allowed both himself and Skales to reflect on the journey their careers had taken and pay homage to Fela. With its combination of modern beats and afrobeat influences, Temper (Remix) is a testament to the legacy left behind by Fela Anikulapo Kuti and the many Nigerian musicians he has inspired.