Seun Kuti, a Grammy-nominated singer and son of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has expressed his disappointment with comparisons between his father and contemporary Afrobeats artist Wizkid. During a recent Instagram livestream, Kuti cautioned Wizkid’s fans, known as Wizkid FC, against drawing parallels between the two musicians.
Kuti stated that such comparisons are an insult to his father’s legacy, emphasizing that Fela’s impact on the music industry is unparalleled. He believes that Wizkid and other new-generation artists should be evaluated on their own merit, rather than being measured against the Afrobeat pioneer. Kuti’s comments were prompted by Wizkid FC’s tendency to bring up Fela’s name in discussions about Wizkid’s music, which he views as disrespectful and ignorant.
The musician argued that the constant comparisons are not only an affront to Fela’s memory but also reflect a lack of satisfaction with Wizkid’s music. According to Kuti, fans who constantly compare Wizkid to Fela are not genuinely enjoying the former’s music, as they are seeking validation by associating it with a legendary figure. He urged Wizkid’s fans to focus on appreciating their artist’s work without feeling the need to draw comparisons.
Kuti’s comments highlight the ongoing debate about the evolution of Afrobeat and its modern incarnations. As the son of Fela, who is widely regarded as the creator of the Afrobeat genre, Seun Kuti’s opinions carry significant weight. His remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of respecting the legacy of pioneering artists while also acknowledging the contributions of contemporary musicians.
The music industry has witnessed a surge in popularity of Afrobeats in recent years, with artists like Wizkid and others gaining international recognition. However, the genre’s rich history and cultural significance must be respected, and comparisons between different generations of artists should be made thoughtfully. By speaking out against unfair comparisons, Seun Kuti aims to promote a more nuanced understanding and appreciation of Afrobeat’s past, present, and future.
