Long crowned by his legion of fans as the king of Afrobeat, the late Fela Kuti is finally being recognised by the global music industry. The Nigerian star will posthumously receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammys - almost three decades after his death at the age of 58.
'Fela has been in the hearts of the people for such a long time. Now the Grammys have acknowledged it, and it's a double victory,' his musician son Seun Kuti tells the BBC, adding, 'It's bringing balance to a Fela story.'
Long-time friend and manager, Rikki Stein, remarked on the significance, 'Better late than never,' and noted the growing interest in African artists from Western music institutions. Following the global success of Afrobeats, the Grammys had also introduced the Best African Performance category.
Kuti's legacy, described as transcending just music, reflects his role as a cultural theorist and political agitator. As he advocated against social injustice and government corruption, Kuti's bold sounds led to more than 50 albums during his career. Notably, his compound was attacked by military forces in 1977, following the release of his album 'Zombie,' which satirized government soldiers.
Fela Kuti's powerful presence was not only felt in music but also in performance art, creating immersive experiences that turned concerts into spirited community gatherings. Today, artists like Burna Boy carry his torch, proving the timeless influence of Kuti's revolutionary spirit. The Grammy award is not just a win for the Kuti family but for culture and music representation worldwide.
'Fela has been in the hearts of the people for such a long time. Now the Grammys have acknowledged it, and it's a double victory,' his musician son Seun Kuti tells the BBC, adding, 'It's bringing balance to a Fela story.'
Long-time friend and manager, Rikki Stein, remarked on the significance, 'Better late than never,' and noted the growing interest in African artists from Western music institutions. Following the global success of Afrobeats, the Grammys had also introduced the Best African Performance category.
Kuti's legacy, described as transcending just music, reflects his role as a cultural theorist and political agitator. As he advocated against social injustice and government corruption, Kuti's bold sounds led to more than 50 albums during his career. Notably, his compound was attacked by military forces in 1977, following the release of his album 'Zombie,' which satirized government soldiers.
Fela Kuti's powerful presence was not only felt in music but also in performance art, creating immersive experiences that turned concerts into spirited community gatherings. Today, artists like Burna Boy carry his torch, proving the timeless influence of Kuti's revolutionary spirit. The Grammy award is not just a win for the Kuti family but for culture and music representation worldwide.
