Without Fela, Nigerian music wouldn’t have been popular – Timaya claims
Timaya Acknowledges Fela Kuti’s Influence on Nigerian Music
Nigerian singer Timaya has credited the late Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti with playing a pivotal role in the global rise of Nigerian music. In a recent episode of the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, Timaya stated that without Kuti’s contributions, the current landscape of Nigerian music would not be as prominent.
Timaya expressed deep admiration for Kuti, who he says has inspired both him and numerous other Nigerian artists. He highlighted Kuti’s international influence, mentioning that in Cameroon, he is celebrated almost like a deity.
“Without Fela, nobody would have known us, and we wouldn’t be here singing music,” Timaya said. “I call him Baba because he didn’t inspire only me; other Nigerians feel the same way. In Cameroon, they honor his name like God. They even have a radio program on weekends where they only play his music. Fela is the greatest man, and I would never disrespect him or his family.”
The discussion around Kuti’s legacy comes amid differing opinions within the Nigerian music community. Afrobeats artist Tekno recently reignited debate by stating in an interview with Yanga FM Lagos that he does not consider Fela Kuti his “king” of Nigerian music. Instead, he named Oliver De Coque as his true musical hero.
“I’m Igbo and grew up in Kaduna, so I never really heard Fela’s music,” Tekno remarked. “Fela is not and will never be my king. Oliver De Coque is the king for me.”
This exchange underscores the diversity of influences and opinions within Nigeria’s vibrant music scene.
