The conversation around Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s legacy has once again taken center stage following a renewed clash between Afrobeats superstar Wizkid and Seun Kuti, the late icon’s son. What began as online commentary has grown into a broader public disagreement, reigniting long-standing debates about how Fela’s influence should be discussed in today’s music landscape.
At the heart of the controversy is the ongoing comparison between Fela Kuti’s cultural and political impact and the global success of modern Afrobeats artists like Wizkid. While Wizkid represents a new generation that has taken African music to international audiences, Seun Kuti has consistently pushed back against comparisons that, in his view, downplay the depth and purpose of his father’s work beyond commercial achievements.
Seun Kuti has maintained that Fela’s legacy extends far beyond music charts or streaming numbers, emphasizing his role as a revolutionary figure who used music as a tool for activism and resistance. From his perspective, placing contemporary artists in the same category without acknowledging this historical context risks oversimplifying Fela’s contributions to African identity and political consciousness.
On the other hand, Wizkid’s supporters argue that recognizing modern artists does not diminish Fela’s importance but instead shows how African music continues to evolve and thrive globally. They see the comparison as a reflection of progress, not competition, pointing out that different eras naturally produce different forms of influence and expression.
As reactions continue to pour in from fans, musicians, and cultural commentators, the dispute has sparked meaningful conversations about legacy, respect, and generational change within African music. While opinions remain divided, the renewed clash has once again highlighted Fela Kuti’s enduring relevance and the powerful role his name still plays in shaping discussions about art, culture, and influence today.
