Baba Ani, a 90-year-old veteran musician, has opened up about his time with Fela Kuti, the Afrobeat legend. He spent 32 years playing with Fela across the Africa 70 and Egypt 80 eras. In a recent conversation with the Podcast Network, Baba Ani reflected on decades of Nigerian music history, sharing his experiences with Fela and other musicians like YS and Tony Allen. He fondly recalls his time with Fela, describing him as a trusted friend who treated him like a senior brother rather than an employee.
Baba Ani's time with Fela spans one of the most significant periods in African music history. The Africa 70, formed in the late 1960s, was the band that helped Fela develop and define Afrobeat as a genre. This period was marked by the blending of traditional Yoruba music with jazz, funk, and politically charged lyrics. The Egypt 80, which replaced the Africa 70 in 1979, continued Fela's musical and political output through some of his most celebrated recordings. Baba Ani was present throughout both eras, sharing stages and studios with influential musicians.
When asked who he missed most from that era, Baba Ani said he missed Fela a lot. He explained that Fela trusted him and took him in as a senior brother, not as an employee. Baba Ani recalled that the last time he saw Fela was when the Afrobeat pioneer was taken to the hospital in his final days. He confirmed that there was no final argument or falling out, just an abrupt ending to over three decades of friendship and music.
Baba Ani still speaks fondly of Fela, finding it difficult to choose a favorite song from his vast discography. He said that he couldn't pick one, as he enjoyed all of Fela's songs. Baba Ani's fond memories of Fela and his music have endured even decades after Fela's passing. As one of the last living links to Afrobeat's golden era, Baba Ani remains a devoted keeper of the genre's history.
Fela Anikulapo Kuti died on August 2, 1997, at the age of 58, due to complications related to AIDS. His death was announced by his son Femi Kuti and drew mourners from across Nigeria and the world. Nearly three decades later, Baba Ani's grief has not dulled, and he continues to cherish the memories of his time with Fela.
Baba Ani's experience with Fela and the Afrobeat movement provides a unique perspective on Nigerian music history. His reflections on his time with Fela offer a glimpse into the life and legacy of the Afrobeat legend. As a veteran musician, Baba Ani has witnessed the evolution of Nigerian music and the impact of Fela's contributions to the genre.
Today, Baba Ani remains one of the last living links to Afrobeat's golden era. His memories of Fela and the Afrobeat movement serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the genre and its pioneers. KEY_POINT: Baba Ani spent 32 years playing with Fela Kuti across the Africa 70 and Egypt 80 eras. KEY_POINT: Fela Kuti died on August 2, 1997, at the age of 58. KEY_POINT: Baba Ani still misses Fela, citing the trust and bond they shared.
