Legendary Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, has posthumously made history as the first African artist to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy.
The late Nigerian music icon was honoured at the 2026 Grammy Special Merit Awards.
It held in Los Angeles on Saturday, 31 January.
This is a day before the main Grammy Awards ceremony.
Also, the prestigious award was accepted on Fela’s behalf by his children — Yeni, Kunle, Shalewa and Femi Kuti .
They all attended the ceremony to celebrate their father’s enduring legacy and global impact on music and activism.
Speaking during the acceptance speech, Yeni Kuti expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Recording Academy.
She noted that the recognition would have deeply pleased their late father.
“I’m sure my father is smiling down on us,” she said.
Yeni also acknowledged family members who were unable to attend the event.
This includes Motunrayo and Seun Kuti, and paid special tribute to her nephew, Made Kuti, whom she praised for taking Afrobeat to greater heights.
“I want to acknowledge my siblings who couldn’t be here tonight — Motunrayo and Seun — and my nephew who is carrying Afrobeat to another level, Made,” she added.
In his remarks, Femi Kuti thanked everyone who has continued to support and promote Afrobeat globally.
Also, he expressed appreciation to DJs, members of the media, their record label Partisan, legal representatives, and fans worldwide for keeping Fela’s legacy alive.
Femi described the honour as one that goes beyond music.
He calls it a significant moment not just for their father, but for Africa, world peace, and the ongoing struggle for justice.
“I would like to thank all the people carrying Afrobeat that are in this place tonight — DJs, the press, our label Partisan, our lawyers, and fans all over the world,” he said.m“Thank you for bringing our father here. It’s so important for Africa. It’s so important for world peace and struggle.”
Fela Anikulapo Kuti, widely regarded as the creator of Afrobeat, remains one of Africa’s most influential cultural figures
He is known for using music as a powerful tool to challenge oppression, corruption and injustice.
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His Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award further cements his place as a global icon whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
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