Full Name: Omorinmade Anikulapo Kuti
Stage Name: Mádé Kuti
Date of Birth: September 26, 1995
Place of Birth: Lagos, Nigeria
Nationality: Nigerian
Genres: Afrobeat, Jazz, Highlife, Funk, Soul
Instruments: Trumpet, Alto Saxophone, Piano, Drums, Bass Guitar
Associated Acts: Femi Kuti, Positive Force, The Movement
Early Life and Musical Upbringing
Mádé Kuti was born into a lineage of musical and political activism. His father, Femi Kuti, is a prominent Afrobeat musician, and his grandfather, Fela Kuti, is the legendary founder of the Afrobeat genre. Raised in the vibrant environment of the New Afrika Shrine in Lagos, Mádé was immersed in music from a young age.
He began playing the trumpet at the age of three, followed by the alto saxophone at five, the piano at eight, the drums and guitar at twelve, and the bass guitar at fifteen.
His early exposure to music was complemented by his academic pursuits. After completing his studies at Uxbridge College in Hayes, London, Mádé attended the prestigious Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, the same institution where his grandfather, Fela Kuti, studied in the 1960s.
Career Trajectory and Major Achievements
Formation of The Movement
In April 2021, Mádé Kuti made his debut performance with his newly formed band, The Movement, at the New Afrika Shrine. This event marked a significant milestone in his musical journey, showcasing his leadership and vision for the future of Afrobeat.
Debut Album: For(e)ward
Mádé’s debut album, For(e)ward, was released on February 5, 2021, under Partisan Records. The album features Mádé performing every instrument, highlighting his versatility and dedication to his craft. For(e)ward is a modern and progressive freedom manifesto, pushing the boundaries of Afrobeat while addressing societal issues such as police brutality and social inequality.
Legacy + Collaboration with Femi Kuti
In 2021, Mádé collaborated with his father, Femi Kuti, on a double album titled Legacy +. This project features Femi’s album Stop the Hate and Mádé’s For(e)ward, symbolizing the continuity of the Kuti family’s musical and activist legacy. The album was well-received, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album at the 2022 Grammy Awards.
Recent Performances and Singles
In February 2024, Mádé headlined his first African performance at the Sauti Za Busara Festival in Tanzania, performing with The Movement Band. He has also released singles such as “Stand Tall” and “No More Wars,” continuing to address global and local issues through his music.
Musical Style and Influences
Mádé Kuti’s music is a blend of Afrobeat, jazz, highlife, funk, and soul. His sound is influenced by his family’s legacy, as well as his formal education and personal musical explorations. He has cited artists like Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, and Sonny Stitt as inspirations, and his work reflects a deep understanding of both traditional and contemporary musical forms.
Activism and Social Engagement
Following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, Mádé Kuti uses his music as a platform for social and political activism. He has addressed issues such as police brutality, social inequality, and governance in his songs. In 2020, he participated in the #EndSARS protests against police brutality in Nigeria, demonstrating his commitment to using his voice for change.
Personal Life
Mádé Kuti married his partner, Inedoye Adanne Onyenso, on November 1, 2023, in a ceremony held in Lagos, Nigeria.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Mádé Kuti represents the third generation of the Kuti family to contribute to the Afrobeat genre. Through his music and activism, he continues to uphold and evolve the legacy of his grandfather, Fela Kuti, and his father, Femi Kuti. His work ensures that the message of Afrobeat—combining rich musical traditions with social consciousness—continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Discography Highlights
- For(e)ward (2021)
- Legacy + (2021) – Collaborative album with Femi Kuti
- Stand Tall (2022) – Single
- No More Wars (2022) – Single
