View / Why Fela Kuti lives on – Semafor

Black and white close-up of a person with short hair, looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression—a style reminiscent of portraits seen in Semafor’s features.

There are artists who make music, and there are artists who change the world. Fela Aníkúlápó Kuti belonged decisively to the latter. More than a musician, Fela was a political force, a philosopher of sound, and one of the most important African voices of the 20th century. His enduring relevance lies not only in what he said, but in how he said it — through rhythm, consistency, and fearless truth-telling.

This is why the Nigerian star, who created the original Afrobeat sound, a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammys this year,…