Late Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, is set to make history as the first African musician to receive the Special Merit Lifetime Achievement Award at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards.
The honour recognises Fela’s revolutionary contributions to music and his enduring influence on generations of artistes across the world.
The Recording Academy announced that Fela will be celebrated alongside global music icons such as Whitney Houston, Paul Simon, Cher and Chaka Khan. In its citation, the Academy described him as the “architect of Afrobeat,” whose distinctive sound reshaped the genre and inspired musicians across continents.
Fela’s influence has continued to gain international recognition, with his 1976 album Zombie recently inducted into the 2025 Grammy Hall of Fame, underscoring the lasting impact of his work.
Speaking on the selection of this year’s honourees, Recording Academy Chief Executive Officer, Harvey Mason Jr., said they represent “an extraordinary group whose influence spans generations, genres and the very foundation of modern music.”
Following the announcement, fans and music enthusiasts across social media platforms have hailed the posthumous recognition as a historic moment for African music, describing it as a fitting tribute to Fela’s legacy.
The award further cements Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s status as a global music icon and ensures that his pioneering role in Afrobeat continues to receive worldwide acclaim.
