Born in Abeokuta, Nigeria, north of Lagos in 1938, Fela's family was firmly middle class as well as politically active. His father was a pastor (and talented pianist), his mother active in the anti-colonial, anti-military, Nigerian home rule movement. So at an early age, Fela experienced politics and music in a seamless combination.

Fela founded a communal compound recording studio and rehearsal space he called the Kalakuta Republic. It was during this time that he formed his first band, Koola Lobitos 61and dropped his given middle name of "Ransome" which he said was a slave name, and took the name "Anikulapo" (meaning "he who carries death in his pouch"). With his band Nigeria 70, the music would become more politically explicit and critical of the oppression of the powerless worldwide. He was the voice of Nigeria's have-nots, a cultural rebel.

Playing constantly and recording at a ferocious pace, Fela and band (who were now called Africa 70) became huge stars in West Africa. His biggest fan base, however, was Nigeria's poor. Back in Africa, Fela was hounded, jailed, harassed, and nearly killed by a government determined to silence him. Fela briefly lived in exile in Ghana, returning to Nigeria in 1978. In 1979 he formed his own political party, MOP (Movement of the People), and at the start of the new decade renamed his band Egypt 80, which recorded blistering attacks against Nigeria's corrupt military government. The goverment incarcerated Fela, his music and activism moved the masses in Africa becoming a big threat fro the goverment.

Roger Steffens became his close friend in the mid-80's. Roger was the first person who interviewed Fela when he was released from jail.

“When a Fela record appeared, it was always worth a Listen”. His death on August 3, 1997 changed many lives.

These design is made by news clippings recovered by Roger Steffens during his travels. Listen pays respect to Fela Kuti for his music and active struggle to stop oppression, for been a never ending inspiration. Fela, The high-flying master of Afro Beat. A LOVER AND A FIGHTER... Moving Forward... LISTEN Movement.

Price:$37.00