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Fela Anikulapo Kuti is one of the most amazing saxophonists I've ever listened to. I happen to come from a musical family with two internationally-acclaimed musicians in my near-immediate family, so I know what I'm talking about. (funny how that particularly cool gene skipped me entirely)
The Father of Afrobeat
This musical force of nature and incredibly controversial figure was born in Abeokuta, Nigeria on October 15, 1938. Fela's music was all about the African revolution of the '70s. He took a stance that was a love of everything that is Africa, for better or ill, and his defiance often brought him at odds with Western norms, sensibilities, and colonialism. True fans will call this an understatement of continental proportions!
His legacy spawned some really powerful music, and the rhythm is unique in the whole world. The sound is created by a vibrant collection of instruments and band elements such as the saxophone, drums, trumpets, guitars, and those really cool congas. And it makes for one hell of a live performance.
(from the soundtrack of Grand Theft Auto 4)
Go check out his official website at www.fela.net. I'll be preserving his music in case civilization as we know it goes nuts with zeds. If the last musician on Earth gets his brains eaten by walkers, we still need to shake booty. You can guess what will be in my solar powered MP3 player while I hunt walkers in our jungles.
The music is so powerful, I start getting a little jiggy and before I know it I'm full blown funky. African style.
Stay vigilant!
It does sound very funky and strong!
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