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Nigerian music icon Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, becoming the first African artist to receive the prestigious honor.
Fela was recognized in the “Early Influences” category, alongside global figures including Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, MC Lyte and Gram Parsons. The announcement was made during the broadcast of American Idol in the United States on Monday night.
This induction places Fela among a select group of influential artists whose work is considered to form the foundation of the modern music genre globally. Organizers said more than 1,200 artists, historians and industry professionals participated in the voting process.
Nigerian-born British singer Sade Adu will also be honored in the “Performer” category, alongside artists such as Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, Luther Vandross and Wu-Tang Clan.
Several high-profile nominees, including Shakira, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, New Edition, and Pink, were not selected in the final round.
The induction ceremony is scheduled for November 14 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
This recognition adds to Fela’s posthumous global accolades, following his Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in January, further cementing his legacy as one of Africa’s most influential music figures and a global pioneer of Afrobeats.
