Fela Kuti to Receive Posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

Fela Kuti, the legendary Nigerian musician and pioneer of Afrobeat, will be posthumously honored with a Special Merit Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Grammy Awards.

This recognition celebrates his profound impact on music, transforming Afrobeat into a global phenomenon that has influenced generations of artists, including Beyoncé, Paul McCartney, and Thom Yorke.

Fela Kuti's music was a powerful blend of jazz, funk, salsa, and traditional Nigerian rhythms, often infused with political activism. His iconic album "Zombie" (1976) was a bold critique of authoritarian rule, leading to a violent raid on his commune, Kalakuta Republic, and the tragic death of his mother, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti.

The Recording Academy describes Fela Kuti as the "architect of Afrobeat," whose legacy extends beyond music to inspire social change and Pan-African unity. This award acknowledges his enduring influence on global music and culture.

Fela Kuti's family, including his sons Femi and Seun, continue to carry his legacy forward through music and activism. The Lifetime Achievement Award ceremony will take place on January 31, 2026, during Grammy Week in Los Angeles.