Femi Kuti Expresses Disapproval With Fela VS Wizkid Comparison, Urges Nigeriana To Focus On Pressing Issues
Veteran Nigerian musician, Femi Kuti, has lent his voice on the ongoing comparison between late Afrobeats pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, and Afrobeats star, Wizkid.
The shocking comparison, which was ignited by the 'Ojuelegba' crooner, saw him hail himself as "bigger than Fela." However, Wizkid's claim didn't sit down well with the late Afrobeats pioneer last son, Seun Kuti, and it led to a spate of insults between the duo on social media.
Weighing in on the controversy, Femi Kuti, during a recent interview on Arise Television, expressed his disapproval, stating that he wishes it never came to light, stressing that he is not going to participate in such controversy. He emphasized that there are more pressing issues involving the government that needs to be addressed.
"I wish it never came up. I’m not participating in it.
“The government doesn’t even know how to move people positively forward. It’s shameful.”
Interestingly, amid the debate and comparison, Fela has been nominated for the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammy, which cements his legendary status.
Femi Kuti further declared his father as the template for music and art in Nigeria, noting how he should be placed in a different sector, where he is revered.
"Fela is the template musically and artistically in Nigeria. He should be put in a sector of his own and respected."
Speaking on his father's recognition, the eldest son of the Afrobeats pioneer stated that it is a good win for both Nigeria and Africa, asserting that it should be a tool for unification of the country and the music industry.
"This recognition is good for Nigeria and Africa. We should use it to build the country, build our music industry, and come together."
Additionally, he wondered why despite Fela's death 29 years ago, many of the issues his songs addressed are still in play, noting how insecurity, corruption, and terrorism is now the order of the day.
"For 29 years, he has been gone, yet we are still discussing the same issues."