Former US President Barack Obama has paid tribute to legendary Afrobeat artist, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, describing him as a unique figure in musical history who mixed art with activism.
He described Fela as “a musical genius from Nigeria” who fused funk, jazz and soul into what became known worldwide as Afrobeat.
Obama said this in a video posted on his social media account on Wednesday night, where he urged fans to listen to a podcast series dedicated to the story of Fela.
Titled “Fela Kuti: Fear no man,” the 12-episode podcast commemorates the life and legacy of the late Afrobeat pioneer on Higher Ground, a podcast owned by Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama.