Oluwatosin Enesi
Femi Kuti began his musical journey playing saxophone in his father’s band, Egypt 80. In 1986, he formed his own band, Positive Force, establishing himself as an artist separate from his father’s legacy.
Born to Fela and Remilekun (Remi) Ransome-Kuti (née Taylor), Femi grew up primarily with his mother after she separated from his father. However, he later chose to live with his father in 1977. Femi’s musical talents emerged early, starting saxophone at age 15 and joining Fela’s band. He pursued his education at Baptist Academy and Igbobi College.
Throughout his career, Femi has been dedicated to social and political causes, influenced greatly by his grandmother, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti. Despite his father’s global fame, Femi credits his mother, Remilekun Taylor, as his greatest influence.
Femi Kuti’s international career began in 1988 with performances in France and Germany. He collaborated with artists like Rachid Taha and participated in projects such as the Red Hot & Riot album tribute to Fela Kuti. His activism and critique of Nigerian issues, reflected in songs like “Sorry Sorry” and “What Will Tomorrow Bring,” mirror his father’s outspoken stance.
Nominated for Grammy Awards in 2003, 2010, 2012, and 2013 in the World Music category, Femi Kuti continues to impact global music and social discourse. In 2021, he and his son Made Kuti released the dual-album project Legacy+ under Partisan Records, showcasing Femi’s album “Stop the Hate” and Made’s debut “For(e)ward.”
Our Reporter
