Exploring Fela Kuti's journey in LA, creating Afrobeat inspired by James Brown, Highlife music, and cultural encounters with Black elites. His musical evolution, political awakening, and influence on other artists like James Brown.
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Quick takeaways
Fela Kuti's time in LA led to the birth of Afrobeat, blending African rhythms with jazz and soul.
LA influenced Kuti's political consciousness, inspiring socially conscious and politically charged music.
Deep dives
Fela Kuti's Evolution in Los Angeles
Fela Kuti's time in Los Angeles during his first American tour in 1969 marked a significant phase in his musical evolution. Stuck in LA due to expired visas and financial struggles, Kuti experienced a transformative journey. Influenced by various music scenes, including the impact of James Brown and Highlife music, Kuti embarked on finding a new distinctive sound. This search led to the birth of Afrobeat, a fusion of African rhythms, jazz, and soul that revolutionized his music and identity.
Fela Kuti's Political Awakening in LA
Fela Kuti's stay in Los Angeles not only shaped his musical direction but also ignited his political consciousness. Through interactions with activists like Sandra Isadore and exposure to Black American movements, Kuti's perspective on African identity and political activism broadened. His encounter with literature like 'The Autobiography of Malcolm X' propelled him to embrace a more socially conscious and politically charged artistic approach, reflected in his music and lyrics.
Musical Transformation at Citadel De Haiti
Fela Kuti's transition to Afrobeat and musical maturity culminated at Citadel De Haiti, a club in LA where he refined his sound. Collaborating with his band Nigeria 70, Kuti honed the Afrobeat genre, characterized by complex rhythms and politically charged themes. The Citadel provided a creative sanctuary for Kuti to innovate and record, marking a pivotal phase in his musical journey that solidified his iconic status as a revolutionary artist.
Lost Notes by KCRW explores how Fela Kuti’s time in LA in 1969 was instrumental in the creation of his legendary Afrobeat sound. Hosted by Michael Barnes and Novena Carmel. Find a full transcript of Lost Notes at KCRW. And subscribe to the show.