Afrobeat musician and activist Seun Kuti has issued a stern warning against the growing trend of labelling new-generation artists as the 'New Fela,' describing the practice as profoundly disrespectful to his late father's immense legacy. The outburst, which occurred during a recent online session, specifically called out fans of superstar Wizkid for repeatedly dragging Fela Anikulapo Kuti's name into fan rivalries.
'Disrespect from Ignorance' vs. Defiance
Seun, who now leads his father's legendary band Egypt 80, made a critical distinction between two types of disrespect. He explained that meaningful disrespect can stem from a place of political resistance or defiance—a principle Fela himself embodied in his lifelong fight against oppression.
"I like disrespect when it comes from defiance," Seun stated. However, he argued that the online comparisons he witnesses are not rooted in such informed criticism. "But when it comes from ignorance, that is something else entirely," he added, emphasising that the current fan wars are based on a shallow understanding of Fela's work and ideology.
The Failed 'New Fela' Crown and Toxic Fandom
According to Seun, the 'New Fela' label was originally a creation of fans and promoters seeking to elevate certain contemporary artists. He insists this comparison fundamentally fails because Fela's impact extended far beyond music into the realms of political activism, Pan-Africanism, and social critique.
"Now that it is clear it cannot work, people are angry because we did not allow anyone wear a crown that does not belong to them," he remarked. Seun also expressed deep concern about the toxic culture of fanaticism, warning that extreme loyalty to artists often fuels unnecessary division among young Nigerians.
He believes these online battles distract artists from their craft and poison the creative community with hostility and misinformation. Seun pointed out that young people observing these exchanges are inevitably influenced by the aggressive tone and language used by competing fan bases.
Clarifying Past Comments on Wizkid and Grammys
During the discussion, Seun Kuti referenced a past encounter with Wizkid's fans, recalling a previous conversation about Nigerian artists and Grammy recognition. He clarified that his earlier comments had been misunderstood and weaponised against him online.
Seun revealed he had actually spoken positively about Wizkid's potential and achievements, even predicting that the 'Essence' singer would eventually win a Grammy award. He lamented that this supportive moment was later twisted into an apparent attack, reinforcing his view that many online arguments are driven by misinterpretation rather than fact.
The incident underscores the ongoing tension between celebrating contemporary Afrobeat's global success—exemplified by stars like Wizkid (Ayodeji Balogun)—and preserving the unique, politically charged legacy of its pioneer, Fela Kuti. Seun's comments serve as a powerful reminder that Fela's name represents more than just musical genius; it symbolizes a radical ideology of resistance that he believes should not be trivialised in fan wars.
