Legendary Nigerian musician, the late Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has been inducted into the prestigious Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, making history as the first African artist to receive the honour.
Fela will be recognised in the “Early Influence” category, alongside notable global figures including Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons.
The list of honourees was unveiled on Monday night in the United States during a broadcast of the popular television show, American Idol.
Also earning recognition is Nigerian-born British singer Sade Adu, who will be inducted in the “Performer” category.
She joins an illustrious lineup that includes Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division / New Order, Oasis, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan.
However, several global stars, including Shakira, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, New Edition, and Pink, did not make the final list despite being nominated.
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According to organisers, more than 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals took part in the voting process.
The induction ceremony is scheduled for November 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
This latest recognition adds to Fela’s enduring legacy.
In January, he also made history as the first African musician to receive the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, nearly 30 years after his death and two years after the Grammys introduced the Best African Performance category.
