Switched on Pop
Lost Notes: How Fela Kuti Found Afrobeat in LA
Apr 20, 2024
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.
32:10
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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.
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