Legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti is set to receive a posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, nearly three decades after his death, marking a historic first for an African musician.
Widely celebrated as the architect of Afrobeat, Fela’s recognition comes amid growing global appreciation for African music, following the international success of Afrobeats and the Grammys’ launch of the Best African Performance category in 2024.
Reacting to the announcement, his son and fellow Afrobeat musician Seun Kuti said, “Fela has been in the hearts of the people for such a long time. Now the Grammys have acknowledged it, and it’s a double victory. It’s bringing balance to a Fela story.”
Longtime friend and former manager Rikki Stein welcomed the honour, describing it as “better late than never” and highlighting how African musicians have historically been overlooked in global award platforms.
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Family, friends, and colleagues are expected to attend the Grammy ceremony to receive the award on Fela’s behalf, celebrating his enduring legacy that fused music with political activism and cultural pride.
Beyond music, Fela was a fierce critic of social injustice, corruption, and military rule in Nigeria. His art became a weapon against oppression, often putting him at odds with successive military governments.
His activism peaked in 1977 after the release of Zombie, when soldiers raided and burned his Lagos commune, Kalakuta Republic, causing the death of his mother, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, from injuries sustained during the attack.
Instead of retreating, Fela carried his mother’s coffin to government offices and released Coffin for Head of State, turning personal tragedy into a bold act of protest and reinforcing his legacy as a musician who fought for justice through art.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
