by Mildred Europa Taylor, Face2FaceAfrica.com
Photo via Fela Kuti on Facebook
Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, becoming the first African solo artist to receive the honor.
The legendary Nigerian musician will be recognised in the “Early Influence” category alongside American rapper Queen Latifah, Cuban legend Celia Cruz, rapper MC Lyte and country rock pioneer Gram Parsons.
The list of honorees was announced during a broadcast of American Idol.
Nigerian-born British singer Sade Adu also honoured in the “Performer” category alongside Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, Luther Vandross and Wu-Tang Clan.
More than 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals participated in the voting process, according to organizers.
Established in 1983, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honors artists, producers, and industry professionals who have made significant contributions to rock music. Musicians can only become eligible for induction 25 years after they released their first official record.
Fela’s nomination to the prestigious institution was announced back in 2021. Before Fela, Trevor Rabin, a South African, was inducted in 2017 as a member of the progressive rock band “Yes”. Freddie Mercury, a Tanzanian, was also inducted in 2001 as a member of “Queen.”
The 2026 induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
Fela’s latest recognition comes after the Nigerian icon made history in January as the first African musician to receive the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, almost 30 years after his death and two years after the Grammys introduced the Best African Performance category.
Known as the pioneer of Afrobeat, Fela enjoyed stunning popularity through his music. He was also a human rights activist and Pan-Africanist who faced many issues with Nigerian politicians and local law enforcement because he was confident in speaking his mind, either through music or random conversations.
Though no more, Fela left a legacy that has lived on and survived for decades, with his songs maintaining their relevance today.
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