Yeni Kuti, a Nigerian media figure, has criticized Nigerian singers who compare themselves to her father, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, the pioneer of Afrobeat music.
Recall that in response to his son Seun Kuti’s criticism of him and his followers, Wizkid recently caused a stir by asserting that he is “bigger” than Fela.
After accepting Fela’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Grammy Awards alongside other family members, Yeni said in an interview with Arise TV that Fela’s relevance now, 29 years after his passing, speaks for itself.
Debates and comparisons to Fela, in Yeni’s opinion, ignore the point of legacy.
She called on modern artists to honor Fela’s legacy and cease attempting to minimize his accomplishments by drawing comparisons to a deceased person.
Yeni Kuti went on to say that instead of comparing themselves to Fela, modern artists should compare themselves to their peers.
Don’t compare chalk and cheese, she said. Give the legendary Fela his flowers. He has fulfilled his portion.
“You are not a dead man walking if, 29 years after his passing, you are still discussing him and making comparisons to yourself. Comparing yourself to him is therefore not a good idea.
“Leave our legends alone and measure yourself against your peers.” Let’s honor the legends in our community.
