Femi Kuti , the eldest son of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti, has clarified the status of his father’s legendary music catalog. In a recent interview, the musician confirmed that the family has not sold the rights to Fela’s work, debunking rumors that the masters had been traded to international corporations.
According to Femi, while the music is currently licensed for global distribution, the underlying ownership remains hundred percent with the Estate of Fela Kuti.
He said, “We never sold it. So it’s under the estate, Fela’s estate, which is controlled by the family. But we licensed the music, so we control it.”
He further credited his elder sister, Yeni Kuti, for her firm stance against selling. As the primary caretaker of the estate, she reportedly led the decision to protect the catalog to ensure Fela’s message remains a family legacy.
My elder sister was very against us selling it. She’s like the main caretaker”, he added.
Fela Kuti’s discography is considered one of the most significant collections in African history. With a career spanning several decades, he released more than 50 albums during his lifetime, most recorded with his bands, Africa ’70 and later Egypt ’80. His music wasn’t just entertainment; it was a rhythmic power.
His music was defined by long, complex instrumental arrangements and lyrics that criticized government corruption and social injustice.
Fela’s key works include;
“Zombie” (1976)
A attack on the Nigerian military, comparing soldiers to mindless robots.
“International Thief” (I.T.T.) 1980
An exposé on corporate and political corruption.
“Water No Get Enemy” (1975)
A philosophical masterpiece blending highlife, jazz, and traditional Yoruba rhythms.
His children on the other hand have continued to carry his legacy.
Femi Kuti, the oldest son has earned multiple Grammy nominations and continues to perform at the New Afrika Shrine in Lagos.
Seun Kuti, the youngest son, currently leads his father’s original band, Egypt ’80, touring internationally and maintaining the band’s reputation for political activism.
Made Kuti, Fela’s grandson, has also emerged as a force in the industry, blending his classical music education with the traditional Afrobeat sound.
