Name: Music of Many Colours - Fela Kuti (LP)
Brand: Fela Kuti
SKU: 2eVlxCbGBXPtpyzO1jMLTP

Album Description

"Music of Many Colours" is a vibrant and politically charged collaboration between the legendary Fela Kuti and the iconic Roy Ayers, released in 1980. This album is a fusion of Afrobeat, Highlife, and Afropop, showcasing the unique blend of African rhythms, Ghanaian highlife, and James Brown's funk that Fela Kuti is renowned for, combined with Roy Ayers' spiritual and social reflections. The album features two tracks, "2000 Blacks Got to Be Free" and "Africa Centre of the World," each offering a powerful and thought-provoking listening experience. The collaboration came about during a tour where Roy Ayers and his band opened for Fela Kuti in Nigeria, leading to this memorable musical partnership. Recorded in Nigeria and spanning 36 minutes, "Music of Many Colours" is a testament to the rich musical heritage and social commentary of both artists. This album is a must-experience for anyone interested in the roots of Afrobeat and the fusion of African and American musical styles.

1 januari 1980

℗ 2009 FAK Ltd under exclusive license to Kalakuta Sunrise

About Fela Kuti

Fela Kuti, born Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti, was a revolutionary Nigerian musician and political activist, renowned as the pioneer of Afrobeat. This genre, which he created in the early 1970s, is a powerful fusion of West African musical styles with American funk and jazz, reflecting his diverse influences and experiences. Kuti's music was more than just entertainment; it was a platform for social protest and political activism. His powerful lyrics and infectious rhythms made him one of Africa's most challenging and charismatic performers, earning him international recognition as a musical and sociopolitical voice.

Born into a family of activists—his mother, Funmilayo, was a feminist and anti-colonialist, and his father, Israel Oludotun, was a Protestant minister and educator—Kuti's upbringing instilled in him a deep sense of social justice. This passion for activism was evident throughout his career, as he fearlessly spoke out against government oppression and corruption, often landing him in trouble with the authorities. Despite facing numerous arrests and hardships, Kuti remained undeterred, using his music to inspire generations and rally against injustice.

Kuti's legacy extends far beyond his music. His iconic New Afrika Shrine in Lagos served as a cultural hub and a symbol of resistance, attracting fans and activists alike. Even after his death in 1997, Kuti's influence continues to inspire musicians and activists worldwide, making him a enduring figure in the global music scene. His discography, spanning genres like Afrobeat, highlife, and afropop, is a testament to his innovative spirit and unwavering commitment to social change.