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Legendary Afrobeat creator Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has once again etched his name into music history after being posthumously recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Recording Academy, becoming the first African musician to receive the prestigious honour.
The award was presented during the 2026 Special Merit Awards ceremony held in Los Angeles on Saturday, January 31, just hours before the main Grammy Awards night. The recognition celebrates Fela’s groundbreaking contributions to music, culture and activism, decades after his passing.
Members of the late icon’s family were present to accept the award on his behalf. His children, Yeni, Kunle, Shalewa and Femi Kuti, represented the Kuti family on stage, marking an emotional moment that underscored the enduring influence of Fela’s legacy across generations.
Speaking at the ceremony, Yeni Kuti expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Recording Academy for the recognition, describing the moment as one that would have brought immense joy to their father. She also took time to acknowledge family members who were unable to attend and praised the younger generation for continuing to elevate Afrobeat on the global stage.
“I’m sure my father is smiling down on us. I want to acknowledge my siblings who couldn’t be here tonight, Motunrayo and Seun, and my nephew who is carrying Afrobeat to another level, Made,” she said.
Femi Kuti also addressed the audience, extending gratitude beyond the family to everyone who has helped sustain and spread Afrobeat worldwide. In his remarks, he described the award as a significant milestone not only for Fela’s legacy but also for Africa and the broader global fight for justice and freedom.
“I would like to thank all the people carrying Afrobeat that are in this place tonight. DJs, the press, our label Partisan, our lawyers, fans all over the world. Thank you for bringing our father here, it’s so important for Africa. It’s so important for world peace and struggle,” Femi said.
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s influence extends far beyond music. Widely regarded as the architect of Afrobeat, he fused traditional African rhythms with jazz, funk and highlife, creating a powerful sound that became synonymous with resistance, political consciousness and African pride. His fearless criticism of oppression and corruption made him both a cultural hero and a controversial figure during his lifetime.
Although Fela passed away in 1997, his music and message continue to resonate globally. His songs remain staples at protests, festivals and academic discussions, while his life story has inspired books, documentaries and stage productions, including the acclaimed Broadway musical Fela!
The 2026 Special Merit Awards also celebrated other legendary figures whose contributions have shaped the global music landscape. Alongside Fela Kuti, honours were awarded to iconic artistes such as Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, Cher and Paul Simon, placing the Afrobeat pioneer firmly among the most influential musicians of all time.
Fela’s Lifetime Achievement Award arrives at a time when African music is enjoying unprecedented global recognition, with Afrobeat and Afrobeats artists dominating international charts and award stages. For many, the honour serves as a reminder that today’s success stands on the foundation laid by pioneers like Fela.
As the Recording Academy continues to recognise excellence across generations, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s inclusion marks a historic moment for African music, reinforcing his enduring impact on sound, culture and the ongoing struggle for social justice worldwide.
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