Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s groundbreaking legacy has received a historic posthumous recognition, as his iconic 1976 album, "Zombie", sets a new milestone at the Grammy Awards.
Nearly three decades after his passing, the influence of Fela Kuti and the revolutionary genre he pioneered, Afrobeats, continues to resonate on the global stage. This lasting impact was recently honored by the Recording Academy, which officially inducted Fela’s "Zombie" into the prestigious Grammy Hall of Fame.
This marks a historic moment for Nigerian music, as "Zombie" becomes the first and only Nigerian album to receive this distinction. The Grammy Hall of Fame recognizes recordings that are at least 25 years old and are considered to hold lasting qualitative or historical significance. Inclusion in this category signifies a recording’s enduring influence on music and culture over time.
Fela Kuti’s eldest son, Femi Kuti, accepted the award on behalf of the Kuti family. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, "Our father’s legacy lives on. We are honoured to accept this Grammy Hall of Fame award on behalf of Fela Anikulapo Kuti. His music continues to inspire and unite people across the world."
Fela Kuti, who passed away in 1997, remains one of the most iconic and influential musicians to emerge from Africa. Known for his fearless political activism, profound social commentary, and unmatched musical creativity, his works have continued to educate and inspire generations. His album "Zombie", a bold critique of the Nigerian military regime at the time, now stands proudly in the Grammy Hall of Fame alongside legendary albums by global artists such as Jay-Z, Santana, and Cat Stevens.
This latest recognition underscores the timelessness of Fela’s music and the global relevance of his messages. His legacy not only lives on through his recordings but also through the continued efforts of his children, including Femi and Seun Kuti, who carry the torch of Afrobeat to audiences around the world.