- Fela gave away his money freely, often after shows.
- He discouraged special treatment, even from his own children.
- He was more respected abroad than in Nigeria during his lifetime.
Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti may have lived like a king, but according to his grandson, Made Kuti, he died with little to nothing.
According to a report by Eko Hot Blog, speaking during an interview on the Tea With Tay podcast, Made Kuti opened up about the life of his grandfather, describing how the music icon’s wealth never translated to personal fortune.
EDITOR’S PICK:
- Drama Unfolds as Davido Cuts Ties with Iyabo Ojo After VeryDarkMan Drops Leaked Chats
- Odumodublvck Says He’ll Quit Music When His Friends Make It Big
- Ebuka Shocks BBNaija S10 Housemates with Surprise No-Eviction Twist
The young Kuti explained that despite Fela’s global success and substantial earnings during his lifetime, he died poor because he gave away most of his money freely to anyone who came to his famed Kalakuta residence.
Made described Kalakuta as a place without boundaries, where both rich and poor had access to Fela’s resources. After live performances, the Afrobeat legend would reportedly open up a box filled with money and tell guests to take what they needed. This, Made said, was how his grandfather lived completely selfless and uninterested in hoarding wealth.
He also disclosed that Fela made sure none of his children or relatives had any unfair advantage. According to him, Fela deliberately discouraged his children from calling him “dad” or “father,” so they would be treated like everyone else in the Kalakuta community.
Despite his international recognition and influence, Fela Kuti was not fully appreciated in Nigeria during his lifetime. Made noted that while the world acknowledged his grandfather’s work and message, he faced more criticism than praise at home. It wasn’t until after his death on August 2, 1997, that many Nigerians began to recognize the depth of his impact on music and activism.
Made Kuti, who has followed in the family’s musical footsteps, said Fela’s life was driven by principles, not profit. He believes his grandfather’s choice to live for the people rather than himself was what ultimately defined his legacy a man who fought for the oppressed, gave everything he had, and expected nothing in return.
FURTHER READING:
