Fela Kuti Was Poor, Struggled to Feed Family – Femi Kuti

Image:DailyPost

 Grammy-nominated Afrobeat musician Femi Kuti has opened up about the hardships his late father, Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, faced during his early career, revealing that despite Fela’s rising fame, the family experienced extreme poverty.

Speaking in a recent interview with Afropolitan, Femi recounted, “Fela was very poor. He couldn’t even afford food for us his kids. I mean, really really poor. 

Then we were living at No. 14A Agege Motor Road, this was all before Kalakuta.” The musician emphasized that even as Fela’s first hit song, Jeun Ko Ku, gained popularity, the family struggled to make ends meet. 

“Every music story was playing Fela’s first Afrobeats hit ‘Jeun Ko Ku.’ I think he too was surprised at the reception he got,” Femi added, highlighting the irony of the situation: the father’s music was celebrated, yet the household remained in poverty.

Femi’s revelations echo similar statements made by his son, Made Kuti, who recently shared that Fela Kuti died poor despite earning substantial money throughout his lifetime.

 According to Made, Fela’s generosity contributed to his financial struggles, as he often gave away his earnings and resources to friends, family, and those in need. 

This legacy of selflessness and artistic dedication has left a lasting impression on the Kuti family, influencing their own musical journeys and philanthropic endeavors.

Femi Kuti also shed light on the challenges of growing up in such an environment, describing the resilience and creativity that emerged from their struggles.

 He recalled the early days before the famous Kalakuta Republic, explaining how the family had to adapt to limited resources while navigating the rising fame of Nigeria’s iconic musician. Despite the hardships, Fela’s passion for music never waned, inspiring his children to continue the Afrobeat legacy.

The discussion comes amid growing public interest in Fela Kuti’s life and the Kuti family’s contributions to Afrobeat. 

Over the years, Femi Kuti has become a prominent figure in the global music scene, carrying forward his father’s legacy while also adding his own unique style and influence. His candid reflections offer fans a deeper understanding of the personal sacrifices behind Fela Kuti’s pioneering work in Afrobeat music and the enduring impact of his artistry.

Femi’s story highlights the stark reality that fame does not always equate to financial stability and that behind legendary music often lies untold struggle and sacrifice. 

It also reinforces the Kuti family’s enduring dedication to music, social activism, and cultural expression, ensuring that Fela Kuti’s revolutionary spirit continues to resonate with generations worldwide.

#Fela 

#ExclusiveUpdate 

#Viralcontent