By: Maafia Nhyira
Born on October 15, 1938, in Abeokuta, Nigeria, Fela Kuti began his musical career in the 1960s.
Fela Kuti fused traditional African rhythms with Western jazz, funk, and soul.
Fela Kuti used his music to criticize the Nigerian government and other African governments for their corruption and human rights abuses.
His concerts were often political rallies, and his music was a call to action for Africans to rise up against oppression and fight for their rights.
Fela Kuti revolutionized African music by fusing traditional African rhythms with Western styles.
Fela Kuti is regarded as a national hero in Nigeria, and his music continues to inspire and influence generations of Nigerian musicians.
Fela's children, Femi and Seun Kuti, have followed in his footsteps and have become prominent Afrobeat musicians in their own rights.
Burna Boy's music is heavily influenced by Fela Kuti's Afrobeat sound, and he has acknowledged Fela Kuti as one of his biggest inspirations.
Fela Kuti's music and activism had a profound impact on African music and culture, and his message is as relevant today as it was during his lifetime.