Image ofFela Kuti

Fela Kuti

Musician
Forlisteners interested in afrobeat, politically engaged music, and fans of jazz/funk fusion.
2 Reviews 3 Definitions 1 Charts

The Profile

Nigerian multi-instrumentalist and pioneer of afrobeat, known for long politically charged performances and leadership of the Africa '70 band.

Founder and leading figure of afrobeat; collaborated closely with drummer Tony Allen; Upside Down (1976) and Zombie (1977) are frequently cited in reviews; his Kalakuta Republic was attacked by the Nigerian military in 1977, with deaths and injuries including his mother's fatal injuries.

Two DeBaser reviews focus on Fela Kuti's role as pioneer of afrobeat and as a political activist. They examine Upside Down (1976) as an accessible entry and Zombie (1977) as a manifesto of musical and social rebellion. Reviews note Tony Allen's central role and describe the 1977 Kalakuta Republic attack and its consequences. Musically, reviewers emphasize rhythm, funk, jazz and Yoruba influences.

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