Fela Kuti, the legendary Nigerian musician, is widely regarded as the father of Afrobeat music. Fusing elements of traditional African music, jazz, funk, and soul, Fela created a unique sound that captured the political and social climate of Nigeria in the 1970s and 1980s. His music was characterized by its infectious rhythms, powerful lyrics, and social commentary, and it inspired a generation of musicians both in Africa and around the world. In this article, we will be counting down the top 10 best Fela Kuti songs of all time. From classic Afrobeat tracks like “Zombie” and “Gentleman” to powerful political anthems like “Coffin for Head of State” and “Upside Down,” Fela’s music continues to inspire and resonate with listeners today. So, let’s dive in and celebrate the incredible legacy of one of Africa’s greatest musical icons.
1. Let’s Start
“Let’s Start” is a classic Afrobeat anthem by Nigerian musician and political activist Fela Kuti. Released in 1975, the song opens with a funky, hypnotic groove featuring layers of percussion, guitar, horns, and Fela’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics urge listeners to take action and fight against oppression and corruption, both in Nigeria and around the world. Fela’s lyrics are a call to arms, urging listeners to rise up and join the struggle for justice and equality. The song’s energy and urgency are infectious, and its message remains just as relevant today as it was in the 1970s.
2. I.T.T. (International Thief Thief)
“I.T.T.” is another powerful Afrobeat track by Fela Kuti, released in 1980. The song’s title is a reference to the International Telephone and Telegraph Corporation, a multinational corporation that Fela saw as a symbol of Western imperialism and corruption. The song’s lyrics accuse ITT of exploiting the people of Nigeria and other African countries for profit, and Fela’s scathing criticism of the company’s practices earned him the wrath of the Nigerian government. Despite facing harassment and imprisonment, Fela continued to use his music as a tool for political activism and social change. “I.T.T.” is a testament to Fela’s fearless spirit and his commitment to using his art to speak truth to power. The song’s pulsing rhythm, searing horns, and incendiary vocals make it a classic of the Afrobeat genre and a powerful example of music’s ability to inspire and motivate people to action.
3. Water No Get Enemy
“Water No Get Enemy” is a vibrant and hypnotic Afrobeat track by Nigerian musician Fela Kuti, released in 1975. The song’s title is a play on the Nigerian proverb “water has no enemy,” which suggests that water is a universal and essential element that cannot be destroyed or defeated. Fela’s lyrics celebrate the power and vitality of water, comparing it to the life-giving force of music and the resilience of the African people. The song’s infectious rhythms, hypnotic percussion, and soaring horns create a sense of joy and optimism that is both timeless and deeply rooted in African culture.
4. 2000 Blacks Got To Be Free
“2000 Blacks Got To Be Free” is a powerful and politically charged track by Fela Kuti and his band, Africa 70, released in 1971. The song’s title is a reference to the global struggle for freedom and equality, and the lyrics condemn racism, colonialism, and economic exploitation. The song’s extended instrumental sections showcase the virtuosity of the band’s musicians, with Fela’s saxophone solos and Tony Allen’s drumming driving the powerful groove. The song’s message of solidarity and resistance remains just as relevant today as it was in the early 1970s, and its raw energy and passion make it a classic of the Afrobeat genre.
5. Fogo Fogo
“Fogo Fogo” is a classic Afrobeat song by Fela Kuti, released in 1971. The song’s title means “Fire Fire” in Portuguese, and the lyrics urge listeners to get up and dance to the infectious beat. Fela’s vocals are energetic and soulful, and the song’s instrumentation features layers of horns, percussion, and guitar. “Fogo Fogo” is a celebration of life and joy, and its upbeat, danceable rhythms make it a favorite of fans of the Afrobeat genre.
6. Expensive Shit
“Expensive Shit” is a funky, groove-heavy track by Fela Kuti, released in 1975. The song’s lyrics tell the story of Fela’s run-in with Nigerian authorities, who suspected him of possessing marijuana. Fela managed to evade arrest by swallowing the drugs, but was forced to submit to a humiliating search to prove his innocence. The song’s title is a reference to the fake feces Fela produced to fool the authorities into thinking he had already passed the drugs. “Expensive Shit” is a biting commentary on corruption and abuse of power, and its infectious groove and Fela’s soaring vocals make it a standout in his discography.
7. Gentleman
“Gentleman” is a classic Afrobeat track by Fela Kuti, released in 1973. The song’s lyrics are a scathing critique of the hypocrisy and materialism of Nigeria’s ruling class, and Fela’s vocals are impassioned and urgent. The song’s instrumentation features layers of horns, percussion, and guitar, and its funky, danceable rhythms make it a favorite of fans of the Afrobeat genre. “Gentleman” is a powerful example of Fela’s political activism and his commitment to using his music to speak truth to power. The song’s message remains just as relevant today as it was in the 1970s, and its energy and passion make it a timeless classic.
8. Upside Down
“Upside Down” is a funky and groove-heavy Afrobeat track by Nigerian musician Fela Kuti, released in 1976. The song’s lyrics address the political and social climate in Nigeria, with Fela denouncing the corrupt government and calling for change. Fela’s vocals are soulful and powerful, and the instrumentation is layered with horns, percussion, and guitar. “Upside Down” is a testament to Fela’s commitment to social justice and his belief in the power of music to effect change. Its infectious rhythms and powerful message make it a classic of the Afrobeat genre.
9. Zombie
“Zombie” is a politically charged Afrobeat song by Fela Kuti, released in 1977. The song’s lyrics criticize the Nigerian military and government, accusing them of mindlessly following orders without questioning the consequences. Fela’s lyrics are scathing and powerful, and the song’s instrumentation features layers of horns, percussion, and guitar. “Zombie” is a call to action, urging listeners to stand up against oppression and corruption. Its infectious groove and unforgettable chorus make it one of Fela’s most iconic songs, and its message remains just as relevant today as it did in the 1970s.
10. Coffin for Head of State
“Coffin for Head of State” is a powerful and emotional Afrobeat song by Fela Kuti, released in 1980. The song was written in response to the death of Fela’s mother, who was thrown from a window during a raid on Fela’s compound by Nigerian soldiers. The song’s lyrics are a scathing indictment of the Nigerian government, and Fela’s vocals are passionate and raw. The song’s instrumentation features layers of horns, percussion, and guitar, and its powerful message and emotional impact make it one of Fela’s most enduring works. “Coffin for Head of State” is a testament to Fela’s unwavering commitment to social justice and his belief in the power of music to effect change.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
