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Felabration 2023 Honours The Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti; Fans Thrilled By Star-Studded Guest Appearances

Felabration 2023 was a week-long event from October 9 to October 15 in Lagos, Nigeria, the beating centre of Afrobeat. This year’s celebration of the late Afrobeat singer Fela Anikulapo Kuti reached new heights with a star-studded roster that included up-and-coming musicians and A-list celebrities. The seven-day Felabration Festival takes place in October during Fela’s birthday week. The festival began in 1998 when Yeni Kuti, the eldest daughter of Fela, planned the inaugural Felabration Festival at the New Afrika Shrine in honour of her father’s significant life and groundbreaking music.

The lineup of musicians at this year’s Felabration was remarkable, spanning multiple generations. Among the many celebrities that attended the event were Faze, Oxlade, Timi Dakolo, Falz, Spyro, and Kcee. As the audience rocked to the beats of these modern music sensations, they were treated to an auditory feast. But more than that, the biggest names in pop culture filled the stage. Fela’s children, Made Kuti, Seun Kuti, and Femi Kuti, were headlining the event. They continued their father’s legacy with stirring performances that astounded the crowd. One of the festival’s highlights was when industry pioneer Faze sang his famous song, Kolomental, in memory of the late musician.

This year’s theme is “Question Jam Answer,” a legendary Fela record released in 1972. Following the eye-opening general election, the nation is in a sociopolitical mindset when people seek answers to issues. This song fits nicely into that attitude. Afrobics Dance Competition, Dress Fela Fashion Competition, Senior Secondary Schools Debate, Fela Debates (Symposium), Artwork Competition, Musical Concert, and other events are typically included in the festival.

Felabration 2023 offered a stage for up-and-coming and underground performers to shine in addition to significant names. The stage was graced by over forty well-known and up-and-coming musicians, demonstrating the breadth and depth of the Afrobeat music landscape. Fela’s musical adventure started at the famous New Afrika Shrine in Lagos, which was the centre of this Afrobeat event. This hallowed location reminded everyone of the origins and essence of Afrobeat, providing the ideal setting for the weeklong celebrations.

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