Afrobeat legend Femi Kuti has opened up on a major decision that has shaped his family’s legacy for decades, explaining why they refused to sell the music catalogue of his late father, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Speaking during an interview, Femi made it clear that the catalogue has never been sold and remains fully under the control of Fela’s estate and the Kuti family.
“No, we never sold it,” he said, explaining that instead of selling, the family chose to license the music while maintaining ownership.
According to him, the decision was heavily influenced by his elder sister, who strongly opposed letting go of their father’s work.
“She’s very protective of Fela’s legacy… she insisted we don’t sell. I saw her view immediately,” he revealed.
Femi noted that this approach has allowed the family to keep benefiting from the catalogue while also protecting its integrity for future generations.
“If we had sold, it would have been done by now. Nothing would be coming to the family,” he said, stressing that keeping ownership ensures their children and generations after them will continue to benefit.
Beyond financial value, Femi Kuti emphasised that the decision is about preserving dignity and honouring the legacy of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Fela, who passed away in Lagos on August 2, 1997, remains one of the most influential figures in global music, widely credited as the pioneer of Afrobeat.
Nearly three decades after his death, his impact is still being recognised. He was recently selected for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and also honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Recording Academy.
From classics like “Zombie” and “Water No Get Enemy” to his fearless political messages, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s legacy continues to live on, not just through his music but through the family’s decision to protect it at all costs.
