Grammy-nominated musician Seun Kuti, son of the late Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, has condemned comparisons between Afrobeats superstar Wizkid and his father.
Speaking during a recent Instagram livestream, Seun described such comparisons as an insult to Fela’s enduring legacy, particularly addressing the singer’s fanbase, Wizkid FC.
“Wizkid FC, keep Fela’s name out of your mouths. Claiming your artiste is the new Fela is an insult,” Seun stated. He added that fans’ overzealous behavior has negatively impacted the Nigerian music scene, creating unnecessary rivalries that even hinder collaborations among artists.
Seun explained that fans often compare modern artists to legends because they feel spiritually unfulfilled by contemporary music. “Can’t you enjoy your artist without comparing it to something else? You pretend to enjoy the music, but spiritually, you are not satisfied,” he said.
He praised defiance born of respect or meaningful critique but criticized what he called “ignorant” fan behavior. “I like it when people don’t have respect as a form of defiance. But your lack of respect came from ignorance,” Seun added.
The comments have reignited discussions online about fan culture, musical comparisons, and the pressures placed on modern Nigerian artists in the shadow of icons like Fela Kuti.
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