Seun Kuti Rejects Comparisons Between Wizkid and Fela Kuti

Grammy-nominated Afrobeat musician Seun Kuti has strongly criticised ongoing comparisons between Nigerian Afrobeats star Wizkid and his late father,Fela Anikula po-Kuti, describing such claims as disrespectful and uninformed.

Speaking during a recent Instagram livestream, Seun Kuti addressed fans of Wizkid—often referred to as “Wizkid FC”—and urged them to stop portraying the singer as a modern-day equivalent of Fela.

According to Seun, such narratives undermine the historical and cultural significance of his father’s work.

He argued that Fela’s legacy extends beyond music, noting that Afrobeat was deeply tied to political activism, resistance, and social commentary. In his view, drawing direct parallels between Fela and contemporary pop artists ignores the broader ideological foundation that defined his father’s influence.

Seun also criticised what he described as a lack of respect among certain fan groups, attributing the repeated comparisons to ignorance rather than artistic debate. He added that excessive fan rivalries on social media have contributed to divisions within Nigeria’s music industry, sometimes discouraging collaboration among artists.

The musician further encouraged fans to appreciate their preferred artists without framing their success through comparisons with past cultural figures. He maintained that constant reference to Fela in online disputes distracts from meaningful engagement with current music.

Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, widely regarded as the founder of Afrobeat, remains one of Africa’s most influential cultural icons, known for using music as a tool to challenge political oppression and social injustice.

Source: Tribune Online