Who Is Fela Kuti? Age, Biography and Wiki
Fela Anikulapo Kuti, born on October 15, 1938, in Abeokuta, Nigeria, remains a towering figure in music and activism even decades after his passing in 1998. As of 2025, he would have celebrated his 87th birthday. Known for pioneering the Afrobeat genre, Fela's music blended traditional African rhythms with jazz, funk, and highlife, reflecting the sociopolitical issues of his time. His legacy as a bold activist who spoke against corruption and human rights abuses in Nigeria continues to inspire generations.
| Occupation | Saxophonist |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 15, 1938 |
| Age | 58 Years |
| Birth Place | Abeokuta, British Nigeria |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | Nigeria |
| Date of death | 2 August, 1997 |
| Died Place | Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria |
Popularity
Fela Kuti's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Fela Kuti stood approximately 6 feet (183 cm) tall. While exact weight figures are not well-documented, it's known that his physical presence was as commanding as his music. His statuesque build complemented his vibrant stage presence, which was as much a part of his performance as it was his music.
Fela Aníkúlápó Kútì (born Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti; 15 October 1938 – 2 August 1997) was a Nigerian musician and political activist. He is regarded as the principal innovator of Afrobeat, a Nigerian music genre that combines West African music with American funk and jazz.
At the height of his popularity, he was referred to as one of Africa's most "challenging and charismatic music performers". AllMusic described him as "a musical and sociopolitical voice" of international significance.
Relationship Status:
- Girlfriend: Sandra Izsadore (notably linked)
- Marital Status: Had multiple wives, often referred to as his "Queens."
Kuti was the son of Nigerian women's rights activist Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti. After early experiences abroad, he and his band Africa '70 (featuring drummer and musical director Tony Allen) shot to stardom in Nigeria during the 1970s, during which he was an outspoken critic and target of Nigeria's military juntas.
In 1970, he founded the Kalakuta Republic commune, which declared itself independent from military rule. The commune was destroyed in a 1978 army raid that injured Kuti and his mother, the latter fatally. He was jailed by the government of Muhammadu Buhari in 1984, but released after 20 months.
He continued to record and perform through the 1980s and 1990s. Since his death in 1997, reissues and compilations of his music have been overseen by his son, Femi Kuti.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death, Fela Kuti's net worth was estimated to be around $3 million. In 2025, the legacy and influence of his music have significantly increased, with his work still generating revenue through streaming, sales, and numerous tribute concerts around the world.
Investments:
In addition to music, Fela Kuti invested time and resources into social and political activism, establishing the Kalakuta Republic, an autonomous commune for his band and supporters.
In 1983, Kuti nominated himself for president in Nigeria's first elections in decades, but his candidature was refused. At this time, Kuti created a new band, Egypt 80, which reflected the view that Egyptian civilization, knowledge, philosophy, mathematics, and religious systems are African and must be claimed as such.
Kuti stated in an interview: "Stressing the point that I have to make Africans aware of the fact that Egyptian civilization belongs to the African. So that was the reason why I changed the name of my band to Egypt 80." Kuti continued to record albums and tour the country.
He further infuriated the political establishment by implicating ITT Corporation's vice-president, Moshood Abiola, and Obasanjo in the popular 25-minute political screed entitled "I.T.T. (International Thief-Thief)".
Social Media Presence:
- Instagram: @FelaKuti
- Twitter: @FelaKuti
In 1978 Fela performed at the Berliner Jazztage in Berlin with his band Africa 70. Disappointed by their fees, Tony Allen, the band leader and almost all the musicians resigned. Since then, Baryton player Lekan Animashaun became band leader and Fela created a new group named Egypt 80.
In 1979, Kuti formed his political party, which he called Movement of the People (MOP), to "clean up society like a mop", but it quickly became inactive due to his confrontations with the government of the day. MOP preached Nkrumahism and Africanism.
Educational Background:
- Institution: Trinity College, London
- Field of Study: Music
In summary, Fela Kuti's legacy as a musical genius and activist continues to resonate into 2025. His inspiring life story, vibrant music, and unwavering spirit remain influential, embodying the ideals of freedom and expression that are celebrated worldwide.
Kuti set up a nightclub in the Empire Hotel. He first named the Afro-Spot and later the Afrika Shrine, where he performed regularly and officiated at personalised Yoruba traditional ceremonies in honor of his native ancestral faith.
He also changed his name to Anikulapo (meaning "He who carries death in his pouch", with the interpretation: "I will be the master of my own destiny and will decide when it is time for death to take me"). He stopped using the hyphenated surname "Ransome" because he considered it a slave name.
