Fela Kuti's iconic "Zombie" album inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame

Once labeled as a rebellious, anti-establishment anthem, the record with the same name won the hearts of fans for its brutal honesty and challenging the status quo.

An Architect of Afrobeat

In this album, Fela combined American Jazz, Funk/Soul and Blues, giving them an African twist. Fela is credited with pioneering what is now affectionately known as Afrobeat. The body of work explores themes of prejudice and concepts of true freedom for Africans. Most notably, the song "Zombie" gained popularity for its bold critique of the Nigerian military. In the lyrics, Kuti, supported by his band the Afrika 70, openly mocks the army and implies that they operate as mindless 'zombies' toward their superiors: "No go, unless you tell me to go" or "No go think unless you tell me to think." He sings.

In response to this provocative song, the military retaliated with a brutal attack. Armed soldiers raided the Kalakuta Republic, a community Kuti had built, to declare himself and others independent of the state. During this raid, the men were assaulted, with Kuti left unconscious and hospitalized. In addition, the women were raped by the armed officials and the compound was burnt down. Kuti also lost his mother from injuries sustained when the soldiers threw her down the stairs. His feud with the state continued to escalate, tainting Fela's musical career with ongoing tragedy, as he faced over 200 arrests for speaking out against the regime. Fela remained rooted in his beliefs until his passing on 2 August 1997 at 58.

To this day, the song "Zombie" remains deeply emotional and powerfully reflects Nigeria's history through time. Fela Kuti's sons, Seun and Femi, have continued to uphold its legacy over the years. The track has also inspired reinterpretations by other artists, including Beyoncé in the Homecoming Live version of "Déjà Vu."

Other sampled Fela Kuti songs include 'Colonial Mentality,' which was incorporated into Missy Elliot's 'Whatcha Gonna Do.' Rapper Common also rendered a subtle sample of 'Water No Get Enemy' on Pops Rap III…All My Children.

Nigeria keeps the legacy of Fela Kuti Alive

Last year marked 27 years since his passing, with Nigerians celebrating his life through its Felabration festival, an annual event in his honor conceived in 1998 by his daughter Yeni Kuti. This year is also proving to be an even greater celebration for the country and worldwide fans as the Grammys recognize him for his role in shaping the musical landscape in his time. 'Zombie' now sits next to Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' and Jay-Z's 'Reasonable Doubt,' including other Cat Stevens and Santana recordings.

Speaking for the Kuti family, his children joyfully accepted the honor. They stated, "Our father's legacy lives on. We are honored to accept this Grammy Hall of Fame award on behalf of Fela Anikulapo Kuti. His music continues to inspire and unite people across the world."