• 21 Apr, 2025
• Faith Kegh
• comments off

Femi Kuti Reflects on Music, Activism, and Personal Growth.

Sitting at the New Afrika Shrine in Lagos—a venue that pays tribute to his father Fela Kuti’s iconic original—Femi Kuti, renowned Afrobeat musician and activist, shared thoughts on his music, legacy, and evolving personal philosophy.

The venue is filled with memorabilia, including awards honoring Femi’s decades of work continuing his father’s fight against corruption and injustice in Nigeria. Now 62, he says he’s shifting focus from broad political messages to more personal introspection.

In a recent interview, Kuti revealed that his 13th album, “Journey Through Life”, due out April 25, reflects the inner guidance that has shaped his life. The title track, for instance, is introspective rather than political. Still, he emphasizes that he hasn’t turned his back on activism.

Femi is part of a lineage deeply rooted in social and political resistance. His father, Fela Kuti, pioneered Afrobeat and used his music to challenge military regimes. His grandmother was a leader in women’s rights and independence movements.

While continuing that tradition, Femi now questions how much impact music alone can have. “My father said music is the weapon. I believe music can spark change, but it can’t do it alone. We need institutions and organizations,” he said.

Despite Nigeria’s transition to democracy in 1999, many of the systemic issues his father fought—like corruption—persist. “Self-reflection has made me wonder if changing the world is truly possible. But I know I can change myself,” he said.

Femi remains active in the music scene alongside his son Made and brother Seun. They perform weekly at the Shrine and tour internationally. His new album still contains political themes, though he’s become more critical of the results of his activism.

“I’ve been singing political songs for 38 years, but in Nigeria, things have only worsened,” he said, citing rampant corruption, poor healthcare, and limited access to quality education. “Everyone thinks success comes only through corruption.”

Though he hasn’t endured the same brutal crackdowns his father faced, Femi acknowledges challenges still exist. He referenced the recent government ban on Eedris Abdulkareem’s protest song “Tell Your Papa,” which criticized President Bola Tinubu.

Despite these pressures, Femi continues to raise his voice. “It’s hard for me not to speak out. I grew up with it. I lived it with my father,” he said before launching into a powerful live performance.

Faith Kegh

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