Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti will posthumously receive the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, nearly 30 years after his death.
The recognition honours Fela’s lasting influence on global music, culture, and political activism.
Award Comes Decades After Fela’s Death
Fela died in 1997 at the age of 58. Despite his global impact, this is the first time the Recording Academy is formally recognising him.
The award also comes two years after the Grammys introduced the Best African Performance category, highlighting a growing focus on African music.
Family to Receive Award on His Behalf
Members of Fela’s family, alongside close friends and collaborators, will attend the ceremony to receive the award on his behalf.
Fela’s Son Reacts to Grammy Recognition
Speaking to the BBC, Fela’s son, Seun Kuti, said the honour reflects the enduring relevance of his father’s work.
“It’s bringing balance to a Fela story,” he said.
“Fela has been in the hearts of the people for such a long time.
Now the Grammys have acknowledged it, and it’s a double victory.”
Rikki Stein: Award Is “Better Late Than Never”
Fela’s longtime manager and friend, Rikki Stein, described the Grammy recognition as overdue.
“Africa hasn’t in the past rated very highly in their interests,” Stein told the BBC.
“I think that’s changing quite a bit of late.”
Who Was Fela Anikulapo Kuti?
Born Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti, Fela was the creator of Afrobeat, a genre that blended jazz, funk, traditional Yoruba rhythms, and politically charged lyrics.
He released over 50 albums and became one of Africa’s most influential cultural figures, using music as a weapon against oppression, corruption, and military rule.
About the 68th Grammy Awards
The 68th Grammy Awards will be held on 31 January 2026.
Comedian Trevor Noah will host the ceremony for the sixth consecutive time.
US rapper Kendrick Lamar leads the nominations with nine nods, including Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Album of the Year — marking the third time he has earned simultaneous nominations in all three major categories.
