“LEGENDS NEVER DIE”
For years, I heard the name Fela Kuti whispered all around me, but I was too young and unbothered to take the time to understand why people praised and enjoyed his music. Fast forward to 2019, as I scrolled through my YouTube suggestions I was presented with a video entitled “Fela Kuti interview 1988 (Reeling’ In the Years Archive.” I was completely mind blown as to why the universe found it appropriate to now expose me to Mr. Kuti within that moment. As I watch the video, I felt a spirit awaken within me. A spirit feed by radical ideas, a care free attitude and the need to invoke change. I was thoroughly impressed by Fela Kuti’s ability to articulate himself as well as his ability to craft thought provoking statements so naturally. This video was my gateway into the discography of Fela Kuti.
For those who have never heard of Fela Kuti, Fela was a Nigerian multi-instrumentalist, musician, composer, human rights activist and a pioneer of the Afro beat genre. With richly crafted melodies and instrumentals, Fela was able to intersect activism and music. By depicting the struggles and narratives of his people within his lyrics, Fela’s music continues to be relatable and relevant even in recent time.
Here are the five Fela Kuti songs you must hear.
1. Zombie: Off the studio album titled “Zombie,” Zombie is a melodious and danceable tune with catchy lyrics. Watch the video here.
2. Teacher Don’t Teach Me Nonsense (TDTMN): Is described by Fela as his explanation as to why Africa is under developed, “TDTMN” is a thought-provoking song which forces listeners to reevaluate democracy and the products of colonisation.
3. Shakara: Shakara is a groovy tune with a vibrant upbeat tempo, off the studio album entitled “Shakara,”
4. Shuffering and Shmiling: With deep meaningful lyrics depicting the influence of religion within his society and the influence of religion on individuals suffering, Shuffering and Shmiling will leave you wondering “Suffer,Suffer for World?
5. International Thief Thief (I.T.T.): Uncovering and discussing the nature of corruption within Africa, “ITT” addresses major issues such as corruption, globalisation, and westernisation within Africa.
In true Fela style, each of the songs listed above will leave you filled with radical new ideas, lead you to unleash your true free spirit, as well as access the intersection between activism and music.
More images of the Ever-Green, Fela Kuti.
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Fela with the Koola Lobitos taken by Brain Duffy for Vogue October 1961.