Tag: Fela

Barack Obama has celebrated the legacy of Nigerian Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti in a new podcast series titled “Fela Kuti: Fear No Man.” Produced by Higher Ground, the media company owned by Barack and Michelle Obama, the series explores Fela’s groundbreaking music, activism, and his fearless fight against political oppression. In a video shared on his Instagram page, Obama hailed Fela as “a musical genius from Nigeria,” applauding his unmatched creativity and bold political expression. The former U.S. president also revealed that Fela’s music holds deep personal meaning for him, describing the Afrobeat pioneer as “a unique figure in musical history who made music that I really love.” The podcast highlights how Fela used music as a weapon for resistance, standing as a symbol of courage and rebellion against injustice. Through his Afrobeat sound, Fela spoke truth to power, challenging military regimes and corruption across Africa. Fela, who died in 1997, remains one of the continent’s most influential artists and activists, with songs that continue to inspire global movements for freedom and reform. Obama’s tribute reflects how Fela’s message transcends generations and borders, influencing artists, activists, and leaders worldwide. “Fela Kuti: Fear No Man” is dedicated to honoring artists who merge creativity with activism. Obama’s reflection captures how music can serve not only as entertainment but also as resistance. Fans across Africa have applauded Obama for spotlighting one of Nigeria’s most powerful cultural icons. The series is expected to reintroduce Fela’s story to new audiences and spark renewed conversations about music, politics, and social change. Fela’s voice may be gone, but his spirit of defiance and liberation still echoes through his music — a reminder that true art never dies, it only transforms. Barack Obama presta homenagem ao Fela Kuti, lenda do afrobeat em novo podcast. pic.twitter.com/MAF6XKp68V — Africanize (@africanize_) October 23, 2025