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Fela becomes first African to receive posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

 

Legendary Nigerian Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti has become the first African artist to receive a posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Announced on January 31, 2026, nearly 30 years after his passing, this honor recognizes his monumental role in creating Afrobeat and his immense influence on global music, politics, and culture.

Key details regarding this historic recognition include:

Significance: The award, presented at the 67th Grammy special ceremony in Los Angeles, acknowledges Fela's 50+ albums, his role as a musical revolutionary, and his "Black President" legacy of anti-imperialism and social activism.

Legacy and Impact: Fela’s son, Seun Kuti, welcomed the award, noting it brings "balance" to his father's story and legacy.

Cultural Context: This recognition aligns with the Recording Academy's increased acknowledgment of African music, including the 2024 introduction of the Best African Performance category.

Recent Honors: In addition to this award, Fela's 1976 album Zombie was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2025.

Fela Kuti joins other 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award recipients, including Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, and Paul Simon.

Fela’s son, Seun Kuti, who currently leads the iconic Egypt 80 band, described the honour as a victory not only for Afrobeat but also for politically conscious music. However, he disclosed that he would be unable to attend the ceremony in person due to travel restrictions. 

“We are all proud as a family,” Seun said. “It is just a shame that I can’t be there physically to join my family to accept the honour because of travel restrictions.

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