Fela Kuti’s discography is a goldmine of timeless hits. Fela kuti songs were not just melodies. They were strong statements. They challenged the status quo and inspired a generation. His strong spirit, fearlessness, and dedication to his craft left a lasting mark. His music had captivating rhythms, and sharp political commentary and showcased his fearlessness in the face of intimidation. He is the Father of Afrobeat and a cultural icon.
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10 Must-Listen Songs by Fela Kuti
Below are the top ten of Fela Kuti’s most iconic songs, each a testament to his musical genius and enduring legacy. From his early highlife days with Koola Lobitos to the peak of his Afrobeat era.
10. It’s Highlife Time (with Koola Lobitos)
It’s Highlife Time is one of Fela’s earliest renditions with his Koola Lobitos band. It was part of the debut highlife-based LP “Fela Ransome Kuti & His Koola Lobitos” and was released while he was attending Trinity College of Music between 1958 and 1961.
9. My Lady Frustration
My Lady Frustration introduced the world to the genre we all love today; Afrobeat. It was the first African tune Fela had written and was recorded for The ’69 Los Angeles Sessions while he was living in Hollywood.
8. Opposite People
Opposite People is a vocal onslaught aimed at people who constantly work against the public consensus. It was released in 1977 and criticizes conformity while celebrating individuality.
7. Beasts Of No Nation
Beasts Of No Nation is an unapologetic mockery of the failed Nigerian system of Government. Released in 1989, it tackles themes of government corruption, military dictatorship, and the struggle for freedom and justice.
6. Gentleman
With Gentleman, Fela affirmed his idea of the unwavering African man. Released in 1973, it delves into the concept of the “gentleman” in Nigerian society, examining the facade and the injustices faced by the oppressed.
5. Water No Get Enemy
Water No Get Enemy is one of Fela’s greatest hits without a doubt, a song that has been chorused and lauded by generations. Released in 1975 as part of his album “Expensive Shit,” this song carries a powerful message about the universal human experience.
4. Shakara
Shakara is a vibrant and energetic song that showcases Fela’s signature Afrobeat sound. The song exudes confidence and swagger, with Fela asserting his status as a cultural icon and musical innovator. Released in 1972, “Shakara” became an instant hit and solidified Fela’s reputation as a leading figure in Nigerian music. It was released as part of Fela’s album “Shakara” under the Nigerian record label EMI.
3. Colonial Mentality
Colonial Mentality is a powerful critique of the lingering effects of colonialism on African societies. Fela challenges the mindset of subservience and inferiority that persists among many Africans, urging them to break free from the mental chains of colonial oppression. Released in 1977, “Colonial Mentality” resonated with audiences across Africa and cemented Fela’s reputation as a fearless advocate for African liberation.
2. Sorrow, Tears & Blood
Sorrow, Tears & Blood is a poignant and deeply affecting song that addresses the brutality and violence faced by ordinary Nigerians at the hands of the government and security forces. Fela denounces the oppression and human rights abuses perpetrated by those in power, calling for justice and accountability. Released in 1977, “Sorrow, Tears & Blood” struck a chord with audiences and earned Fela widespread acclaim for his fearless social commentary.
1. Zombie
Zombie tackles and makes jest of the herd mentality in the average post-colonial African man. Released in 1976, it is a powerful and thought-provoking song that reflects the socio-political climate of Nigeria during that era.
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Birth and Background of Fela Kuti
Fela Anikulapo Kuti, born Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti on October 15, 1938, was a Nigerian musician, bandleader, composer, political activist, and Pan-Africanist. Known worldwide as Abami Eda, Fela Kuti was a phenomenal entertainer whose music broke barriers and inspired millions.
Born into the Ransome-Kuti family, an upper-middle-class Nigerian family, Fela’s parents were both prominent figures in Nigerian activism. His mother, Chief Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, was an anti-colonial feminist, and his father, Reverend Israel Oludotun Ransome-Kuti, was an Anglican minister, school principal, and the first president of the Nigeria Union of Teachers. Fela’s brothers, Beko Ransome-Kuti and Olikoye Ransome-Kuti, both medical doctors, were well-known nationally.
The Father of Afrobeat and His Musical Legacy
Fela’s musical journey began in 1958 with the formation of his band ‘Fela Ransome Kuti & His Koola Lobitos’ in the UK. He introduced his listeners to a more Nigerian version of Highlife, a genre that can trace its origin back to Ghana. After returning to Nigeria in 1963, he reformed his band, renaming it ‘Koola Lobitos’. Fela slowly began to make a name for himself in the entertainment industry.
In 1969, he went on his first US tour, which wasn’t as successful as he had hoped. However, during this tour, he met Sandra Izsadore, an activist and former Black Panther member, who introduced him to the writings of Malcolm X and various political activists. This encounter greatly influenced both his music and political views.
Fela Kuti is regarded as the King of Afrobeat, a Nigerian music genre that combines West African music with American funk and jazz. His music was characterized by harmonic and melodic grooves, call-and-response choruses, and layered syncopation.
Fela Kuti’s music has been recognized globally. His musical “Fela!” was nominated for 11 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, and Best Direction of a Musical. His son, Femi Kuti, following in his father’s footsteps, has received six Grammy nominations.
Conclusion
Fela Kuti was not just a great musician, but also a brave person who stood up against unfairness and corruption. His home, known as the Kalakuta Republic, was a place where people could speak freely and find safety from unfair governments. This made him a hero for human rights and freedom.
Even when he was treated badly by those in power, Fela never gave up. He used his music and fame to speak up for people who couldn’t. He never let anyone silence him, no matter how hard things got. This shows us how art like music can help make big changes in the world.