Fela Kútì, or Fela Aníkúlápó Kútì (born Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti; 15 October 1938 – 2 August 1997) was a Nigerian musician and political activist. He is regarded as the principal innovator of Afrobeat, a Nigerian music genre that combines West African music with American funk and jazz. At the height of his popularity, he was referred to as one of Africa’s most challenging and charismatic music performers.
He started his career in the 1960s, and he led the legendary band “Afrika 70” to collaborate with icons like Ginger Baker. Over three decades, he released masterpieces like “Zombie” and “Expensive Shit.” His most notable accomplishment was using music to challenge government corruption. Today, his legacy lives on through his sons and the recent 2026 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award honoring his global impact.
