Barack Obama Pays Tribute to Fela Kuti, Describes Him as a Musical Genius Who Mixed Art with Activism
Former U.S. President Barack Obama has paid a heartfelt tribute to Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti, describing him as a “musical genius” whose art transcended boundaries and championed social justice.
In a video shared on his official social media account on Wednesday night, Obama urged fans to listen to a new podcast series dedicated to Fela’s life and legacy titled “Fela Kuti: Fear No Man.”
The 12-episode documentary series, produced under Higher Ground, the Obamas’ media company, explores how the late Nigerian icon used music as a powerful tool for activism, freedom, and cultural revolution.
“He is a musical genius from Nigeria who made some music that I really love, combining funk, jazz, and soul into a whole new genre called Afrobeat,” Obama said.
“It’s a beautiful show about a unique figure in musical history who mixed art with activism.”
Obama Celebrates the Spirit of Afrobeat
The podcast — currently in its fourth episode — traces Fela’s early years, including the influence of his mother, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a prominent women’s rights activist. It also examines his transformative experience in Los Angeles in 1969, where his exposure to Black Power movements shaped his identity as a Pan-African revolutionary.
In the opening episode, “To Hell and Back,” Obama is among several global figures who reflect on how Fela’s music inspired change, saying:
“Music like Fela’s is able to not just keep folks moving but also make them feel alive. Our very best art and very best music touch the soul.”
A Global Tribute to Fela’s Legacy
According to the podcast producers, Fear No Man features contributions from over 200 interviews, including Fela’s children — Yeni Kuti, Femi Kuti, and Mádé Kuti — as well as renowned global artists and cultural icons such as Burna Boy, Paul McCartney, Questlove, and Santigold.
The series delves into the transformative power of Afrobeat, exploring how Fela’s fearless artistry continues to inspire new generations of musicians and activists amid global social and political unrest.
“Drawing from decades of history, interviews, and performances, Fela Kuti: Fear No Man journeys deep into the heart of Afrobeat — celebrating how music can challenge systems and heal societies,” the producers said.
Key Takeaways
- Focus Keyphrase: Barack Obama pays tribute to Fela Kuti
- Obama hails Fela as a “musical genius from Nigeria.”
- Podcast Fela Kuti: Fear No Man celebrates Fela’s influence on global music and activism.
- Features over 200 interviews, including Femi, Yeni, and Mádé Kuti.
- Produced by Higher Ground, founded by Barack and Michelle Obama.
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