Stylistic Analysis of Afrobeat Music of Fela Anikulapo Kuti

Published By Kez On 26th Oct 2024. 11:12 am

Afrobeat, pioneered by Fela Anikulapo Kuti, is a fusion of traditional African rhythms, jazz, funk, and highlife. Its style is defined by intricate polyrhythms, extended instrumental sections, and socially conscious lyrics.

Fela’s music often utilized syncopation and call-and-response, rooted in African oral traditions. His songs, sometimes stretching over 10 minutes, relied heavily on horn sections, percussions, and electric guitar grooves.

Lyrically, Afrobeat served as a vehicle for Fela’s activism, addressing themes of political corruption, social injustice, and Pan-Africanism. His sharp commentary and revolutionary spirit became integral to the genre’s identity.

Characteristics of Fela’s Afrobeat:

Rhythmic Complexity: A mix of traditional African percussions and Western funk rhythms, creating a signature sound.
Instrumental Arrangements: Prominent use of horns, saxophones, and electric guitars, with extended instrumental solos.
Social Commentary: Lyrics focusing on political corruption, colonialism, and the struggles of the African people, often delivered in Pidgin English for wider reach.

Afrobeat continues to inspire contemporary musicians globally, with its dynamic rhythms and message-driven music deeply rooted in African culture and Fela’s activism.

STYLISTIC ANALYSIS OF AFROBEAT MUSIC OF FELA ANIKULAPO KUTI

Albert Oikelome PhD.
University Of Lagos, Akoka Yaba

ABSTRACT

Afrobeat, pioneered by Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has been globally acclaimed as a unique popular musical typology which emerged from the continent of Africa.

Although various studies have addressed its philosophical, sociological and linguistic perspectives, not much has been devoted to its stylistic study.

There is therefore the need to undertake a stylistic analysis of
Afrobeat music with the view to understanding the fragments that has been intelligently woven together to make the music a unique phenomenon.

In doing this, we would identify the principles underlying the formation of Afrobeat. This will assist us in understanding the identity
that distinguishes it from the mainstream of world music. Afrobeat, like every cultural product evolved from other styles.

The challenge then is to identify these styles and see how Felá
incorporated them into a distinctive genre called Afrobeat. This will help in better appreciation of the forms and structure of the musical genre.

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