Nearly three decades after his passing, the legendary Fela Anikulapo Kuti has been posthumously inducted into the 2025 Grammy Hall of Fame—a powerful nod to his revolutionary spirit and the global imprint of Afrobeat. His iconic 1976 album, “Zombie,” is the work earning this historic recognition.
The Recording Academy’s Hall of Fame, established in 1973, celebrates recordings that are at least 25 years old and possess lasting cultural, historical, or artistic significance. This year, “Zombie” joins that prestigious archive—not just for its musical brilliance, but for its fearless message.
Accepting the honour on behalf of the Kuti family, Fela’s eldest son, Femi Kuti, said it was both emotional and empowering.
“Our father’s legacy lives on. We are honoured to accept this Grammy Hall of Fame award on behalf of Fela Anikulapo Kuti. His music continues to inspire and unite people across the world.”
For fans of Fela and Afrobeat, this moment is more than symbolic—it’s a long-overdue celebration of a man who redefined African music and reimagined the role of the artist as a voice of the people.
Why “Zombie” Still Hits Hard
Originally released in 1976, “Zombie” was no ordinary album. With its infectious blend of Afrobeat, jazz, and funk, it mocked the blind obedience of Nigerian soldiers under military rule. Fela, never one to mince words, used the metaphor of zombies to depict how the army carried out orders without question—leading to one of the boldest acts of protest music in modern history.
The album’s sharp critique of authoritarianism came at a heavy price. In response to “Zombie,” Fela’s commune, the Kalakuta Republic, was raided and burned by the military. His mother, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a revered women’s rights activist, was thrown from a window during the attack and later died from her injuries.
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Despite the personal and political costs, “Zombie” endured. Today, its themes still echo in struggles against state brutality and social injustice—from the streets of Lagos during the #EndSARS protests to global movements calling for human rights and accountability.
Global Reverberations
Fela’s sound didn’t stop at Nigeria’s borders. Over the years, Afrobeat has evolved into a worldwide genre, inspiring superstars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido, all of whom credit Fela as a guiding influence. International artists—Coldplay, Alicia Keys, Beyoncé, and countless others—have sampled or paid homage to his work.
What Fela started in the ’70s with a saxophone, a mic, and a mission has grown into a global force. Afrobeat isn’t just music anymore, it’s a movement.
This induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame is not just a tribute to a classic album; it’s a recognition of resistance, rhythm, and relevance. Fela Kuti sang truth to power at a time when doing so could cost you your life. And though he’s no longer with us physically, his music still shakes speakers, stirs hearts, and sparks change.
In honouring Fela today, the Recording Academy is not just looking back. It’s acknowledging that great music doesn’t die and neither do the ideas it stands for.
Long live the Black President. Long live Afrobeat. Long live Fela.
