Fela Kuti legacy sparks warning to Afrobeats artists

Seun Kuti, son of the legendary Afrobeat musician Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has cautioned Afrobeats artists against comparing themselves to his father. In a recent podcast interview, Kuti expressed his disapproval of artists who claim to be the modern-day equivalent of Fela simply because they sample his music or draw inspiration from his style.

Kuti clarified that he has no issue with artists sampling his father’s works, but rather with the comparisons that often follow. He emphasized that sampling Fela’s music does not equate to being on the same level as the late music legend. “Sampling Fela doesn’t make you Fela,” Kuti stated. He criticized artists who refer to themselves as the “New Fela,” saying it is unfair and inaccurate.

Several Afrobeats artists, including Wizkid and Burna Boy, have been compared to Fela after sampling his music in their songs. Some street-hop artists, such as Bella Shmurda and Portable, have even referred to themselves as the “New Fela.” Last year, rapper Olamide sparked controversy by declaring Wizkid the “greatest Afrobeats artist after Fela.”

Kuti’s comments highlight the ongoing debate about the legacy of Fela Kuti and his influence on contemporary African music. As Afrobeats continues to gain global recognition, many artists are drawing inspiration from Fela’s unique sound and style. However, Kuti’s warning serves as a reminder that his father’s legacy is distinct and should not be diminished by comparisons to contemporary artists.

The issue of sampling and homage in music is complex, and Kuti’s comments underscore the need for artists to approach these issues with respect and sensitivity. As the Afrobeats genre continues to evolve, it is likely that debates about influence, legacy, and cultural ownership will remain relevant. By speaking out, Kuti aims to preserve his father’s legacy and ensure that his contributions to music are not diminished by unwarranted comparisons.