Kuti, Fela, << KOO tee, FEHL uh >> (1938-1997), was a Nigeria n musician, composer, and bandleader. He was also a strong supporter of human rights . He developed a type of music called Afrobeat. Afrobeat blends traditional West African chants and rhythms with jazz , funk , and rock . His songs often feature lyrics about political and social problems. He is commonly referred to simply as Fela.
Fela was born on Oct. 15, 1938, in Abeokuta , southwestern Nigeria. He belonged to the Yoruba ethnic group. His full birth name was Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti. He later changed his middle name to Anikulapo because he regarded Ransome, his original middle name, to be a slave name. Anikulapo is Yoruban for he who carries death in his pouch. Beginning in 1958, Fela studied music at Trinity College in London. In 1961, he formed the band Koola Lobitos. Fela was the lead singer. He also played saxophone , keyboard, and a number of other instruments.
Fela returned to Nigeria in 1963 and started another version of the band. In 1970, Fela renamed his band Afrika 70. In 1980, he changed the name to Egypt 80.
Fela and his band became popular in West Africa. His lyrics often addressed issues important to Nigeria’s poor. Many of Fela’s lyrics also criticized the government. The Nigerian military harassed, jailed, and attacked him. In 1979, Fela formed his own political party, Movement of the People (MOP). He tried to run for president of Nigeria, but the government did not recognize him as a candidate.
Fela recorded more than 70 albums with Afrika 70 and Egypt 80. His notable songs include “Lady” (1970), “Gentleman” (1973), “Confusion” (1975), “Colonial Mentality” and “Zombie” (both 1977), “Unknown Soldier” (1979), “Coffin for Head of State” (1981), and “Army Arrangement” and “Teacher Don’t Teach Me Nonsense” (both 1985).
Fela died of AIDS on Aug. 2, 1997. In 2009, a musical called Fela! opened on Broadway , based on his life and music. The show became a hit and renewed interest in Fela. Fela’s sons Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti are also musicians.
