Yeni Kuti Condemns Comparisons Between Contemporary Artists and Fela Kuti
Yeni Kuti, daughter of the legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has issued a stern rebuke to artists and fans who engage in comparisons between her late father and modern-day musicians. Her comments come in the wake of Fela's groundbreaking recognition as the first African artist to receive the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, an honor bestowed posthumously at the 2026 Special Merit Awards in Los Angeles.
A Legacy Beyond Comparison
In an interview with ARISE News, Yeni Kuti described the practice of comparing Fela to current artists as fundamentally misguided and unfair. She emphasized that Fela's enduring legacy, which has remained relevant for nearly three decades after his death in 1997, cannot be equated with the careers of living musicians. "Don't compare chalk and cheese," she stated, urging respect for her father's monumental contributions to music and culture.
Yeni questioned why contemporary rivalry conversations continue to involve a cultural icon from a different era, highlighting that Fela's work has already withstood the test of time. "He's done his own if you are still talking about him 29 years after his death," she remarked, stressing that such comparisons do little to elevate anyone involved.
Call for Peer-to-Peer Rivalries
Instead of invoking legends from the past, Yeni Kuti urged thriving artists to focus on measuring themselves against their peers. She argued that peer-to-peer comparisons offer a healthier and more honest reflection of today's music scene, fostering meaningful conversations about present-day creativity, influence, and competition.
"You are comparing yourself to someone who has been gone 29 years. It's not a good thing," she said, advising musicians to stick to rivalries within their own generation. This perspective aligns with her belief that each artist's era, struggles, and impact are unique and should be evaluated on their own terms.
Context of the Controversy
Yeni's remarks follow a public spat between her brother, Seun Kuti, and superstar Wizkid, which sparked debates about Fela's legacy in relation to contemporary Afrobeat stars. The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award has further fueled these discussions, with many celebrating Fela's historic achievement while others question how current artists stack up against his influence.
Reactions on social media have been mixed, with some users criticizing Yeni's stance as gatekeeping greatness, while others support her call for respect towards Fela's unparalleled contributions. Notably, President Bola Tinubu also paid tribute to Fela following the Grammy honor, acknowledging his lasting impact on Nigerian and global music.
Looking Forward
As the Afrobeat genre continues to evolve and gain international acclaim, Yeni Kuti's comments underscore the importance of honoring historical legacies without diminishing the achievements of today's artists. By advocating for peer-based comparisons, she encourages a more constructive dialogue that celebrates both past icons and present talents on their own merits.
Ultimately, this episode highlights the ongoing tension between reverence for tradition and the drive for contemporary recognition in Nigeria's vibrant music industry, a conversation that remains as relevant as ever in the wake of Fela's posthumous Grammy triumph.
