Review by David Gilden
In April (2024) Musicians For Musicians (MFM) presented a global roundtable discussion
on the legacy of Fela Kuti’s music and activism, as part of their ongoing “Music Is Essential,” series. Produced by MFM’s President Sohrab Saadat Ladjevardi and promotion/technical support by MFM member Adam Reifsteck.
This historical panel included several special guests who knew or worked with the Nigerian
godfather of Afrobeat. Fela “Ransome” Kuti (October 15, 1938 – August 2, 1997) music infused his
native traditional Yoruba roots music with American blues, jazz, and funk.
Fela was not just a saxophone player and band leader, but more importantly, he was also a political activist,
being influenced by the politics of Malcolm X, the Black Panthers, and other militants,
Over time Fela’s music became increasingly volatile and politicized. His music always had a message!
“I was not a politician, I was a revolutionary musician.” – Fela
Fela’s manager for fifteen years, Rikki Stein, talked about his adventures touring with Fela’s band in Africa.
Lemi Ghariokwu (Nigerian artist, and creator of Fela Kuti’s album covers) joined the discussion all the way from Nigeria sharing insights on how cover art came about for Fela’s catalog. Additionally, various Industry professionals shared their personal anecdotes of working with Fela, including
Chris May (interviewed Fela in Lagos in the aftermath of the Nigerian army’s 1977 sack of Kalakuta Republic.,
Sandra Izsadore (Sang in Fela’s band and introduced him to black consciousness),
Michael Veal (author of Fela: The Life and Times of an African Musical Icon),
Stuart Leigh (Produced an NPR profile when Fela toured the U.S. in 1986.),
Noel Smith (recording engineer working at Ginger Baker’s studio in Lagos, Nigeria, 1971 – 1972),
Dr. Tee Mac Omatshola Iseli (musician and co-founder of the Classical Music Society of Nigeria and the Musicians Union),
Leon “Kaleta” Ligan-Majekodunmi (From Benin. Guitarist in Fela’s Egypt 80 band),
Duke Amayo (Nigerian musician who grew up in Fela’s Lagos neighborhood and former frontman of the Brooklyn Afrobeat band “Antibalas”)
Senior Producer Banning Eyre for Afropop Worldwide helped direct the questions and the
open discussion about Fela’s legacy which lasted an hour and could have gone on for an
additional hour.
The panel pointed out the historical depth of Fela’s music, his authenticity, and his adherence to principles
that he propagated through his prolific performances and recordings. The message was always a “wake-up call” to the people to uplift and educate society.
This is the aesthetic that younger musicians should be aware of on and off stage. The world
needs more music activists like Fela who incorporate a positive message into their music.
“Let Music Be Your Weapon” – Fela
This event was highly enjoyable and informative. If you care about the future of music
and musicians, you should check out MFM for future events and help support their advocacy
for musicians. Playback is available for all MFM members.
“Fela was a life-transforming artist” – Mile Davis