Timaya: Nigerian Music Wouldn’t Be Where It Is Today Without Fela

Nigerian singer Timaya has credited the late Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti for playing a major role in the development and international recognition of Nigerian music.

Speaking on the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, Timaya described Fela as a major source of inspiration for him and several other Nigerian musicians.

According to him, Fela’s influence extends far beyond Nigeria, with his music and legacy receiving significant recognition in other African countries.

Timaya specifically mentioned Cameroon, claiming that Fela is highly revered there and that radio programmes are dedicated to playing his music.

The singer said he regards Fela as “Baba” because of the foundation he believes the legendary musician laid for generations of Nigerian artistes.

Timaya further stressed that he would never disrespect Fela or any member of his family, given what he described as the pioneer’s enormous contribution to Nigerian music.

His comments come shortly after fellow Nigerian singer Tekno reiterated his position that Fela is not his “king” of Nigerian music. Speaking in an interview with Yanga FM Lagos, Tekno said he considers highlife legend Oliver De Coque his personal choice.

Tekno explained that although he is Igbo and grew up in Kaduna, he did not grow up listening to Fela’s music, which influenced his view of who he considers his musical king.