It is impossible to consistently listen to contemporary Nigerian music and not perceive elements of Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat rooted in it.
The Afrobeat maestro who passed on the 2nd of August 1997, was the son of a quiet Anglican priest and an activist mother who was supposed to be fine doctor like his elder brother ,Olikoye or his younger brother Beko.
Fela the black sheep of the family, danced to his own drumbeats, refusing to conform to already established music genres .
In no particular order TheNewsGuru takes a look at 5 contemporary Nigerian songs inspired by Fela’s Afrobeat.
- Wizkid- Jaiye Jaiye
The self-proclaimed Star Boy, Wizkid who has been flying the flag of Afrobeat features Femi Kuti , son of the Afrobeat legend in this groovy Afrobeat tune. The song was released in 2013 and produced by Sarz
- Tiwa Savage featuring Don Jazzy- African Waist
African Waist is an upbeat Afrobeat song produced by Don Jazzy.The song glorifies the waist of African women and its efficacy. From usage of horns and groovy African beats, the song commands attention whenever it is being played.
3.Tekno- Rara
Tekno’s socially conscious song, Rara also falls into the zone of contemporary African songs that needs falls into the Afrobeat genre. The song is produced by Selebobo
4.Seyi Shay-Yolo
The soulful RnB singer, Seyi Shay soars in this Afrobeat song titled Yolo. The song is produced by DJ Coublon
- Skales featuring Burna Boy- Temper
Baseline Records artiste, Skales collaborates with Burna Boy in this slow paced Afrobeat song. Amazingly, young people find it difficult to leave the dance-floor, whenever this song is being played. The song is produced by Krizbeats