{"title":"Fela Kuti","description":"\u003ch2\u003eAbout Fela Kuti\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFela Anikulapo Kuti was born in Abeokuta, Nigeria on October 15, 1938, into the politically prominent Ransome-Kuti family. He studied music at Trinity College London in the 1960s before returning to Nigeria. He spent time in Los Angeles in 1969-1970, where he developed his signature Afrobeat sound through extensive contact with Black Power activism and American funk and jazz. He returned to Nigeria and built the Kalakuta Republic compound and the Africa Shrine performance space in Lagos. His political activism against Nigerian military dictatorships produced extensive personal consequences, including multiple imprisonments and the 1977 Nigerian army raid on Kalakuta that resulted in the death of his mother Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti. He recorded an extraordinary catalog of long-form Afrobeat compositions across the 1970s and 1980s. He died of AIDS-related complications on August 2, 1997 in Lagos. His sons Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti continue his musical work.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSound and style\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFela Kuti's catalog defines Afrobeat as a recognized genre - combining West African highlife, jazz, funk, traditional Yoruba music, and political activism in long-form compositions typically running 15-30 minutes each. His big band Africa 70 (later Egypt 80) featured extensive horn and rhythm section arrangements with Fela leading on tenor saxophone, electric piano, and vocals.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDiscography highlights\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOpen \u0026amp; Close (1971, EMI)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGentleman (1973, EMI)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExpensive Shit (1975, EMI)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eZombie (1976, Coconut)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSorrow Tears and Blood (1977, Kalakuta)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBlack President (1981, Capitol)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal Sufferhead (1982, Capitol)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBeasts of No Nation (1989, MCA)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFor collectors\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal EMI Nigeria, Coconut, and Kalakuta pressings of the Fela Kuti catalog are highly sought after collector items. Knitting Factory Records' comprehensive reissue program across the 2010s and Partisan Records' continued reissue programs have made the catalog widely accessible. Multiple Box Set: Compiled by [various] curator series have been issued.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhere to start\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eListeners new to Fela Kuti typically start with Zombie (1976) or Expensive Shit (1975). \u003cspan class=\"related-collections\"\u003eExplore more: \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/african-vinyl-records\"\u003eAfrican\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"fela-kuti-noise-for-vendor-mouth-opaque-red-vinyl","title":"Noise for Vendor Mouth LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eReleased in 1975, this album began Fela's greatest and most prolific era. This edition is pressed on Jabuticaba Red (opaque red) vinyl.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540755067063,"sku":"210000086783","price":17.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/image-abc5ad9f-cdd4-4139-a0bd-6065f4b97d04-1024x10.webp?v=1781154147"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-expensive-shit-vinyl","title":"Expensive Shit LP","description":"\u003cp\u003e2014 vinyl LP pressing of the Afrobeat star's 1975 album.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540817752247,"sku":"210000034398","price":29.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/fela.jpg?v=1781154372"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-fela-live-with-ginger-baker-vinyl","title":"Fela Live with Ginger Baker LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginally recorded in 1971 and 1978 by Fela Kuti’s band, Africa 70, with the addition of former Cream drummer Ginger Baker, this album contains 4 songs plus a bonus track 16-minute drum duet between Baker and Africa 70’s drummer Tony Allen recorded at the 1978 Berlin Jazz Festival.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540817785015,"sku":"210000034395","price":29.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/81f78plvmvl-sy355.jpg?v=1781154374"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-music-of-many-colours-vinyl","title":"Music of Many Colours LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eOne of the most badass jams featuring two musical giants, sit back and let it soak in.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540817883319,"sku":"210000034393","price":25.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/felaayers.jpg?v=1781154373"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-zombie-vinyl-180g","title":"Zombie LP","description":"\u003cp\u003e“Attention! Quick march! Slow march! Salute!” sings Fela, “Fall in! Fall out! Fall down! Go and kill! Go and die!” “ZOMBIE!”\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540818112695,"sku":"210000034394","price":29.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/zombie.jpg?v=1781154375"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-kalakuta-show-opaque-blue-vinyl","title":"Kalakuta Show LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eLimited blue colored vinyl LP pressing. This album was Fela's full-on sonic revenge on the military regime that attacked and brutalized him.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540818243767,"sku":"210000086784","price":25.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4284658-3086451.jpg?v=1781154373"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-overtake-don-overtake-overtake-green-vinyl","title":"Overtake Don Overtake Overtake LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eLimited transparent green colored vinyl LP pressing. Overtake Don Overtake Overtake was the penultimate album of newly recorded studio material released by Fela before he passed in 1997.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540877684919,"sku":"210000087299","price":28.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4291804-3094798.jpg?v=1781154583"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-gentleman-vinyl","title":"Gentleman LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis album marks the end of earlier era Fela Kuti and is a stellar example of his brand of political afro-beat\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540877717687,"sku":"210000034397","price":28.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/3449108.jpg?v=1781154584"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-original-sufferhead-green-vinyl","title":"Original Sufferhead LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile preparing the master disc for the box set, our engineer Jedi, Colin Young, discovered four minutes of \"lost\" material on the B-side of the original pressing, including a superb keyboard solo by Fela.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48540928049335,"sku":"210000087297","price":30.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4291803-3094797.jpg?v=1781154750"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-roforofo-fight-orange-green-vinyl","title":"Roforofo Fight 2LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eRoforofo Fight is about human intolerance towards each other. Issues that could be resolved amicably usually end up in fist fights. Sometimes such fights end up bloody or muddy.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48541003350199,"sku":"210000073212","price":37.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4106249-2874201.jpg?v=1781155042"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-afrodisiac-50th-anniv-green-red-marble-vinyl","title":"Afrodisiac 2LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe songs on Afrodisiac were tracks that Fela and the Nigeria 70 (Later Africa 70) re-recorded at Abbey Road Studios in 1972 after they had become hits in Nigeria.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48541023862967,"sku":"210000076470","price":39.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/fela_af56da38-56bc-4c99-b766-d6004fd86bba.jpg?v=1781155127"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-the-best-of-the-black-president-cd-digipack","title":"The Best of the Black President CD","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Best of the Black President CD brings together Fela Kuti's essential tracks in a sleek digipack. This collection is perfect for anyone looking to embrace the rhythms of African funk and political grooves. It's an essential record for both new listeners and devoted fans alike.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785665425591,"sku":"210000049088","price":19.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/1565199.jpg?v=1783045593"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-best-of-the-black-president-red-green-blue-yellow-vinyl","title":"Best of the Black President 4LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eBest of Black President is the 13 track guide to Fela Kuti's massive and manifold creative career.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785850204343,"sku":"210000101671","price":99.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/fela_2115bac5-94df-493c-abdc-08dbfacafe0e.jpg?v=1783046096"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-coffin-for-head-of-state-vinyl","title":"Coffin for Head of State LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis LP is a heavy statement, encapsulating Fela Kuti's rage and artistry in one sweeping track. The anger festers from a haunting real-life tragedy; his mother was thrown from a window during a military raid, a moment captured in this raw tribute. With remastered sound from original recordings, this piece bears witness to a life entwined with the very fabric of Nigeria's fight against oppression. Such boldness is rarely so starkly displayed in music.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785908072631,"sku":"210000046766","price":28.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/3752602-2519137.jpg?v=1783046254"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-alagbon-close-color-vinyl","title":"Alagbon Close LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eFela Kuti's \"Alagbon Close\" LP captures the spirit of his defiance and artistry, famously addressing police brutality in Nigeria. This special release on Jollof orange color vinyl, featuring striking artwork by Ghariokwu Lemi, celebrates its 50th anniversary while delivering Kuti's iconic blend of Afrobeat rhythms and revolutionary lyrics.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785916330167,"sku":"210000092858","price":32.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4372037-3279893.jpg?v=1783046279"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-j-j-d-johnny-just-drop-vinyl","title":"J.J.D. (Johnny Just Drop) LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eFela Kuti's \"J.J.D. (Johnny Just Drop)\" arrives on vinyl, reviving a critical blend of funk and social commentary. Originally released in 1977, this album critiques Nigeria's \"been-tos\";those returning from the West with a skewed sense of identity. Featuring the iconic artwork by Lemi Ghariokwu, this remastered edition reflects Kuti's knack for blending sharp wit with infectious grooves, ensuring that every note carries his unique cultural perspective.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785925046455,"sku":"210000090682","price":17.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/3752606-2519141.jpg?v=1783046303"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-open-close-vinyl","title":"Open \u0026 Close LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eA total groove-fest loaded to the gills with raucous horn blowing, ferocious percussion (once again, Tony Allen take a bow), and song lengths over ten minutes.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785940414647,"sku":"210000061273","price":28.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/kuti.jpg?v=1783046349"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-gentlemen-50th-anniv-igbo-smoke-vinyl","title":"Gentlemen LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eFela Kuti's Gentlemen LP is here in a striking 50th anniversary Igbo smoke vinyl edition, perfect for those who appreciate vibrant sound and style. This pressing stands out not just for its color, but for tracks like \"Gentleman\" and \"Igbe (Na Shit)\" that demand your attention. Kuti's influential blend of African rhythms and powerful lyrics still resonates today, making this release an essential grab for both collectors and newcomers alike.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785947295927,"sku":"210000081054","price":32.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/4209188-3076127.jpg?v=1783046364"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-fela-s-london-scene-vinyl","title":"Fela's London Scene LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eFela Kuti's \"London Scene LP\" captures a vibrant chapter of his eclectic career, released in 1972 and pressed on 180 gram vinyl. This album features piercing electric piano lines and inventive arrangements alongside engaging tracks like \"Egbe Mi O\" and politically charged anthems like \"Buy Africa,\" offering a rich blend of rhythm and social commentary that's sure to resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers alike.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785947328695,"sku":"210000057785","price":37.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/3449110.jpg?v=1783046365"},{"product_id":"fela-kuti-sorrow-tears-blood-vinyl","title":"Sorrow, Tears \u0026 Blood LP","description":"\u003cp\u003eFela Kuti's \"Sorrow, Tears \u0026amp; Blood LP\" is a powerful reflection on the struggles faced during the 1976 Soweto Uprising. The title track not only mourns the loss of young lives but also critiques the oppressive forces of colonialism, blending poignant lyrics with restrained yet impactful music. This vinyl release captures Kuti's signature style while offering a sobering commentary on authority and repression in Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wax Trax Records","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48785952997559,"sku":"210000084074","price":25.98,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0745\/5755\/4871\/files\/2606911.jpg?v=1783046383"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.waxtraxrecords.com\/collections\/fela-kuti.oembed","provider":"Wax Trax Records","version":"1.0","type":"link"}