Grammy-nominated Afrobeat musician Femi Kuti, first son of legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has reacted to the recent controversy surrounding the comparison between his late father and Nigerian superstar Wizkid.
The debate erupted after Wizkid claimed he was “bigger” than Fela while responding to criticisms from Seun Kuti over ongoing comparisons between the Ojuelegba crooner and the Afrobeat icon.
The statement triggered widespread backlash across social media and the music community.
Speaking during an interview with Arise TV via Skype from Los Angeles, Femi Kuti expressed disappointment that the issue had escalated.
He noted that he maintains good relationships with both his younger brother, Seun Kuti, and Wizkid, who he described as “like a son” to him.
Femi Kuti described the controversy as a misplaced priority, stressing that musicians especially younger artistes should focus their energy on advocating for better governance and societal change rather than engaging in divisive debates.
While addressing the comparison, Femi firmly stated that Fela Anikulapo-Kuti stands in a class of his own and should not be measured against any other artiste.
According to him, the late Afrobeat pioneer remains Nigeria’s musical and artistic template and deserves to be idolised and respected.
“Fela is our father, and even the younger artistes respect him,” Femi said.
“The Fela versus Wizkid controversy is not something that should even come up. Fela is the musical and artistic template in Nigeria. He should be put in a sector of his own, idolised and respected.”
He added that he deliberately avoided taking sides in the matter out of respect for both parties, reiterating his wish that the controversy had never arisen.
Also read: Fela Kuti Makes Grammy History With Posthumous Lifetime Achievement Honour
