Fela
Picnews
Barack Obama, the former President of the United States, has launched a new podcast series called “Fela Kuti: Fear No Man,” where he pays tribute to the legendary Nigerian Afrobeat musician, Fela Kuti. Obama describes Fela as “a musical genius from Nigeria” who fused funk, jazz, and soul to create the Afrobeat genre. The podcast, produced by Higher Ground, the media company founded by Obama and his wife Michelle, features over 200 interviews with Fela’s family, friends, and global icons.
The 12-episode podcast series explores Fela’s life, music, and activism, showcasing his impact on culture and society. It includes contributions from Burna Boy, Paul McCartney, Questlove, Santigold, and members of the Kuti family, including Yeni, Femi, and Mádé Kuti. Obama notes that Fela’s music “doesn’t just move people — it makes them feel alive”. The podcast draws from Fela’s childhood, his transformative experience in 1969 Los Angeles, and his role as a Pan-Africanist freedom fighter.
Femi Kuti, Fela’s eldest son, reacted emotionally to the podcast, saying it brought tears to his eyes and that Fela’s message lives on. The podcast has sparked excitement among Nigerian music lovers, historians, and Afrobeat enthusiasts, who hail the acknowledgment as proof of Fela’s global stature. Obama’s recognition of Fela Kuti underscores the continued relevance of his message in modern struggles for justice and equality.
The podcast highlights Fela’s courage and refusal to be silenced, as well as his commitment to speaking truth to power through his music. Fela’s legacy extends beyond his music to his activism and advocacy for human rights and social justice. The podcast features stories from Fela’s life, including his experiences with the Nigerian government and his time in prison.
Overall, the “Fear No Man” podcast is a tribute to Fela Kuti’s enduring legacy and a celebration of his music, activism, and impact on culture and society.
