Femi Kuti Reflects on Early Challenges and Father’s Approval.

Afrobeat luminary Femi Kuti recently disclosed the trials he faced in establishing his own musical identity, initially met with resistance from both his father, the legendary Fela Kuti, and his father’s devoted fanbase. Kuti revealed that his departure from Fela’s band in 1986 was perceived as an act of rebellion, leading to alienation from a significant segment of the Afrobeat community.

Furthermore, Femi Kuti recounted the demoralizing experience of his debut album being publicly criticized by his father, stating, “He went on stage and said it to the press.” This harsh critique, delivered during the album launch, was a significant blow to the burgeoning artist.

Despite these early setbacks, Kuti persevered, finding validation years later when Fela Kuti witnessed his son perform “No Place For My Dreams” and “Mind Your Business.” This pivotal moment marked a turning point, leading Fela to publicly acknowledge and celebrate Femi’s success. This story serves as a testament to Femi Kuti’s resilience and his eventual triumph in carving his own path within the world of Afrobeat.