FELA: THE EARLY DAYS AT NBC

Before fully dedicating himself to the creation of Afrobeat, Fela returned to Nigeria from London, where he had studied music. Upon his return, he trained as a radio producer and broadcaster at the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), Nigeria’s state radio service, now known as the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN). This early career in broadcasting gave him skills in sound production, arrangement, and public communication, which later informed his revolutionary performances and recordings.

Though Fela is best remembered for his groundbreaking music and outspoken political activism, this period at NBC highlights his foundational experiences in media and production, which contributed to his mastery of musical storytelling, live performance, and the socio-political messaging that Afrobeat became famous for.

By 1971, Fela had begun thrilling audiences with a mix of energetic performance, musical innovation, and provocative commentary, setting the stage for the cultural and political influence he would continue to wield for decades.

Key Details:

Full Name: Fela Anikulapo-Kuti

Nickname: Abami Eda (“The Strange One”)

Early Career: Radio producer/broadcaster at NBC

Musical Breakthrough: Transitioned to Afrobeat after mastering production techniques

Significance of 1971: Marked the early public performances that showcased his charisma and unique musical style.