Media personality Ifedayo Olarinde, popularly known as Daddy Freeze, has weighed in on the ongoing debate comparing singer Wizkid to the late Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
In a recent video broadcast, Daddy Freeze argued that Wizkid cannot be measured against Fela, emphasizing that the legendary musician’s influence extended far beyond the music industry.
“Until Wizkid is ready to stand up and stone government, he shouldn’t compare himself to Fela,” he said. “Did you know that Fela was released from prison just to prevent him from dying there? They released him to go and die at his home because they knew his death would spark an uproar if he died in prison. That was 1995, I was a fresher in the university then.”
Daddy Freeze highlighted that Fela’s activism and music were inseparable, noting that the Afrobeat legend was not merely a musician but also a freedom fighter and philanthropist.
“Fela was not a troublemaker; he was a freedom fighter. We are talking about music, but I cannot talk about Fela if I don’t talk about everything he stood for. His activism and music went hand-in-glove. You can’t separate the two,” he added.
His remarks come amid widespread discussion online following Wizkid’s controversial claim that he is “bigger than Fela,” sparking reactions from fans, musicians, and Fela Kuti’s family members.
The debate has reignited conversations about the enduring cultural and political impact of Fela Kuti, and the responsibilities of contemporary artists in acknowledging music legends.
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