Efe Oghenetega
Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has shattered barriers by becoming the first African artist to be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Grammy from the Recording Academy.
The recognition came at the 2026 Special Merit Awards in Los Angeles on January 31. The late icon’s legacy was upheld by his children—Yeni, Kunle, Shalewa, and Femi Kuti—who gracefully accepted the award on his behalf.
Speaking to the audience, Yeni Kuti expressed deep gratitude to the Recording Academy, remarking that her father would be “beaming with pride from above.”
She also acknowledged her absent siblings, Motunrayo and Seun, while praising her nephew Made Kuti for elevating Afrobeat’s global influence.
“My father’s spirit rejoices today.
“A special shout-out to my siblings who couldn’t join us—Motunrayo and Seun—and to my nephew Made, who is revolutionizing Afrobeat.”
Femi Kuti shared heartfelt thanks to the unsung champions of Afrobeat, including DJs, journalists, their label Partisan, legal supporters, and devoted fans worldwide.
He framed the accolade as not just a tribute to their father, but a landmark moment for African pride and the universal struggle for equality.
“To every Afrobeat ambassador here tonight—DJs, the press, Partisan Records, our legal team, and fans across continents—thank you for honoring Baba. This is Africa’s victory, a testament to our resilience and the fight for justice worldwide,” Femi declared.
Fela joined an elite circle of honorees, including Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, Cher, and Paul Simon, cementing his indelible mark on music history.
