Early Life and Musical Heritage
Made Kuti, born to the legendary Femi Kuti and grandson of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, was immersed in music from an early age. Growing up in the Kuti family meant being surrounded by a rich legacy of Afrobeat music and social activism. His exposure to music, culture, and political discourse shaped his worldview and musical journey.
Education and Musical Training
While his father and grandfather were largely self-taught musicians, Made Kuti took a more formal approach to his craft. He studied at the prestigious Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London, focusing on jazz and classical music. This education allowed him to gain a deeper understanding of musical theory and composition, setting him apart from his predecessors while staying true to the Afrobeat genre.
Joining The Positive Force
Made Kuti officially joined his father’s band, The Positive Force, in 2018. His addition to the group represented the continuation of the Kuti legacy, as he performed on stage alongside his father. He played multiple instruments, including the bass, saxophone, and trumpet, contributing to the dynamic sound of the band. His performances at the New Afrika Shrine in Lagos became a significant part of his musical journey.
The Release of For(e)ward
In 2021, Made Kuti released his debut album For(e)ward as part of a two-part project with his father’s album *Legacy+. This project symbolized the passing of the torch from one generation to the next, with Made offering a fresh take on Afrobeat. His music retains the core elements of Afrobeat—energetic rhythms, powerful brass sections, and socially conscious lyrics—while incorporating modern influences like jazz, funk, and highlife.
Carrying the Kuti Legacy of Activism
Much like his father and grandfather, Made Kuti is not just a musician but an activist. His lyrics address issues of corruption, inequality, and human rights, echoing the political messages of his family. Made uses his music to continue the fight for justice and equality, tackling issues that still plague Nigeria and the African continent.
Musical Style: A Modern Twist on Afrobeat
While Made Kuti’s sound is rooted in traditional Afrobeat, his music reflects a new generation’s perspective. He fuses elements of classical, jazz, and even rock into his compositions. His unique blend of genres has been praised for keeping Afrobeat relevant and fresh for younger audiences, while maintaining the essential spirit of resistance and empowerment that defines the genre.
Live Performances and Global Recognition
Made Kuti has performed at various international venues, gaining recognition for his musical talent and powerful stage presence. His performances are a mix of high-energy Afrobeat and jazz-infused improvisation, captivating audiences worldwide. He continues to perform at the New Afrika Shrine, solidifying his place in the family tradition while also carving out his own path on the global stage.
The Importance of Family Legacy
For Made Kuti, continuing the Kuti family’s legacy is not just about music; it’s about carrying forward the ideals of social change, political activism, and cultural pride. His music is a reflection of his upbringing in one of Africa’s most influential families. He honors his heritage while infusing it with his distinct sound, ensuring that Afrobeat remains a voice for the oppressed and a beacon of African culture.
Looking to the Future: The Evolution of Afrobeat
As Made Kuti continues to evolve as an artist, his music is set to shape the future of Afrobeat. His dedication to expanding the boundaries of the genre, while staying true to its roots, positions him as a key figure in the global Afrobeat movement. Made’s work will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of musicians, both in Nigeria and around the world.
Subscribe to Follow Global Trends for daily global news.
Find Out How To Make Money As A Full Time Writer/Blogger Guide.
To Advertise, Advertise Your Affiliate Links on FollowGlobalTrends.com for Just $1 Per Link Per Month!
Related Articles
Fela Kuti: A Revolutionary Life of Activism, Music, and Family
Onyeka Onwenu and Fela Kuti: A Legendary Connection
- Made Kuti
- Next-generation Afrobeat
- Afrobeat evolution
- Fela Kuti’s grandson
- Modern Afrobeat
- Emerging Afrobeat artists
- Musical innovation
- Afrobeat inheritance
- Nigerian music
- Young Afrobeat talents
- Music legacy
- Made Kuti’s style
- Afrobeat fusion
- Contemporary African music
- Made Kuti’s albums
- Musical heritage
- Fela Kuti’s influence
- Future of Afrobeat
- Afrobeat rhythms
- Music and culture
- Young Nigerian musicians
- Afrobeat revival
- Global music scene
- Afrobeat artist impact
- Made Kuti’s contributions