A recent claim has sparked debate in the music industry, with record producer Samuel Oguachuba, also known as Samklef, stating that Fela Anikulapo-Kuti is not the originator of Afrobeat, as widely believed. Samklef alleged that Fela borrowed the idea of the genre from veteran musician Orlando Julius Ekemode. This statement comes amid an ongoing feud between Samklef’s former associate Wizkid and Fela’s family.
According to Samklef, Orlando Julius Ekemode not only created Afrobeat but also taught Fela how to play instruments. Sharing a photo of Ekemode on social media, Samklef wrote that Ekemode is the original founder of Afrobeat and that Fela stole his style. Samklef further emphasized the lack of proper documentation in Nigeria, which he believes has led to the misconception about Fela’s role in creating Afrobeat.
However, it is widely acknowledged that Fela Anikulapo-Kuti created Afrobeat by fusing various music styles, including funk, jazz, salsa, calypso, and West African rhythms. Fela’s innovative approach to music is credited with popularizing Afrobeat globally. The genre has since become a significant part of Nigerian cultural heritage and a symbol of African musical identity.
Orlando Julius Ekemode is indeed a notable figure in Nigerian music history, known for his contributions to the development of Afrobeat and other genres. While Ekemode’s influence on Fela’s music is acknowledged, the extent of this influence and the question of who originated Afrobeat remain subjects of debate.
The claim by Samklef has ignited a discussion about the history of Afrobeat and the importance of accurate documentation in preserving cultural heritage. As the conversation unfolds, it may lead to a reevaluation of the genre’s origins and the contributions of various musicians to its development. Ultimately, a clearer understanding of Afrobeat’s history will provide a more nuanced appreciation of the genre and its significance in African music.
