‘You’re Not A Dead Man Walking’
Yeni Kuti Critiques Comparisons to Afrobeat Pioneer Fela Kuti
Nigerian media personality Yeni Kuti has condemned contemporary artists for comparing themselves to her father, the late Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
The criticism follows recent comments from popular artist Wizkid, who claimed to be “bigger” than Fela while responding to remarks made by Fela’s son, Seun Kuti, regarding his fanbase.
In a recent interview with Arise TV, Yeni Kuti spoke after accepting Fela’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Grammy Awards alongside family members. She emphasized that her father’s enduring legacy, nearly three decades after his death, is significant and should not be diminished by comparisons.
“Debates surrounding Fela’s influence miss the essence of his legacy,” she stated. “Contemporary artists should honor Fela’s contributions instead of attempting to undermine his achievements through comparisons.”
Yeni urged modern musicians to align their comparisons with their peers rather than with historical figures. “Don’t compare chalk and cheese. Fela is a legend; he deserves recognition for his contributions,” she said.
She added, “If you’re still discussing him almost 30 years after his death and making comparisons, it indicates a lack of understanding of your own identity as an artist. Focus on your contemporaries and leave the legends alone. We must respect our iconic figures.”
