Seun Kuti, Afrobeat star and son of the late legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti, has criticised fans who compare Nigerian music star Wizkid to his father.
Speaking during an Instagram Live session, Seun said referring to Wizkid as the “new Fela” is disrespectful and shows a lack of understanding of his father’s legacy.
“Keep Fela’s name out of your (Wizkid FC) mouths. Why must you find a way to bring Fela always into your discussions?” he said.
He added that attempts to elevate modern artistes by attaching Fela’s name to them were unnecessary and misguided.
“You try to steal the man. You try to claim that this your artiste is the new Fela. Then, when you people saw that you couldn’t wear those pants, that the shoes were too big to fill, you now turn around,” he said.
Seun argued that fans should be able to enjoy their preferred artistes without dragging others into online debates.
“If your lack of respect came from a place of defiance, I would respect it. But your lack of respect comes from a place of ignorance. Complete ignorance,” he said.
He also blamed fan wars for creating unhealthy rivalry within the music industry, saying such behaviour discourages unity and collaboration.
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, who died in 1997, is widely regarded as the pioneer of Afrobeat, known for using music as a tool for social and political commentary. His influence continues to shape African music and culture globally.
Wizkid, one of the leading figures in contemporary Afrobeats, has gained international recognition through global collaborations and major streaming milestones.