Femi Kuti's legacy

If I say Afrobeat, what’s the first name that comes to mind? Fela Kuti. The polyrhythmic prince who coined the term, and pioneered a movement that would stretch it’s tentacles far beyond Nigeria and into the decades, and genres, that would follow. Afrobeat was a swarm of sounds. Western African highlife, American jazz and funk, and a big dose of Black power. It came to life with Fela but continues through his sons, and grandsons, and through the rhythms of bands all over the globe.

Fela’s eldest son, is Femi Kuti. As a child he would watch, then play with his father. As an adult, he has carved his own path… continuing and expanding Afrobeat through eleven albums. His latest, he paired with his eldest son, as he released his debut. And so, Made and Femi continue the legacy Fela set out all those years ago.

Having Femi Take 5 is a huge honour. Afrobeat has directly and indirectly influenced so much of the music I love. Across this Take 5 you’ll hear the foundations from where it was born, and the incredible stories, the sweat, and the passion that brought this movement to life. It’s an education, a celebration, and a tribute all in one.

E.T. Mensah – 'Nkebo Baya'

Haruna Ishola – 'Oroki Social Club'

Duke Ellington – 'Take the "A" Train'

Miles Davis – 'Milestones'

James Brown – 'Say it Loud - I’m Black and I’m Proud'