Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti has been posthumously inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, a prestigious recognition honoring recordings of lasting qualitative or historical significance. His groundbreaking 1977 album, Zombie, performed with his band Afrika 70, is among the 13 new recordings selected for the 2025 class.
The Recording Academy announced the induction on February 13, 2025, highlighting works that are at least 25 years old and have significantly shaped the music landscape. Fela’s Zombie—a powerful critique of Nigeria’s military regime—stands out not only for its bold political message but also for its innovative fusion of jazz, funk, highlife, and traditional African rhythms, a style that came to define the Afrobeat genre.
Other inductees into the 2025 Grammy Hall of Fame include influential albums and singles by artists such as Jay-Z (Reasonable Doubt), Santana (Supernatural), Luther Vandross, Emmylou Harris, and Cat Stevens, showcasing a diverse blend of musical excellence across genres and eras.
To celebrate the new class of inductees, the Recording Academy will host the Grammy Hall of Fame Gala on May 16, 2025, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills.
Fela Kuti’s induction reflects his enduring global influence as a musician, activist, and cultural icon. Known for his fearless opposition to authoritarian rule and his ability to use music as a form of protest, Fela’s legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and fans worldwide.
This latest honor follows other posthumous recognitions, including his induction into the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame in 2022 and his inclusion in Rolling Stone’s list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time.
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