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Fela Kuti

Nigerian musician and activist (1938–1997).

Born October 15th, 1938 in Abeokuta.

Died August 2nd, 1997 at 58 years old in Lagos (death from AIDS-related complications).

Occupations
activist, bandleader, composer, conductor, saxophonist, singer, singer-songwriter
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Fela Kuti, the famous Nigerian multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, musician, and political maverick, passed away peacefully on August 2, 1997, at the age of 58. Fela took the stage at a young age, branding his own unique style of Afrobeat music that fused funk, jazz, and traditional African rhythms. His creative genius was highly celebrated both in Nigeria and abroad, leading to numerous international tours. With beloved anthems like "Zombie" and "Water No Get Enemy" that criticized political injustices, Fela Kuti became a symbol of resistance against oppression and a leader in the fight for human rights. Never afraid to speak up against oppressive powers, Fela fought against the Nigerian government's military dictatorship with his influence and activism, earning him the nickname the "Black President." His unique musical achievements were honored with numerous awards, including the French Legion d’Honneur, Nigerian National Merit Award, and the Golden Phoenix Award for Best Male Singer. Though gone, Fela's legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those he touched through his music. He will be remembered for the influential and anthemic contributions he made to the worlds of music and politics at large.

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It is the secret of the world that all things subsist and do not die, but retire a little from sight and afterwards return again. Ralph Waldo Emerson