Femi Kuti, Fuji star Abass Obesere, Mr Real and Lyte thrilled music lovers at Felabration 2026 in Lagos, with a joint Afrobeat-Fuji performance celebrating Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s musical and cultural legacy.
Afrobeat musician Femi Kuti and Fuji artiste Abass Obesere thrilled music lovers with energetic performances at Felabration on Thursday night as the annual festival celebrated the posthumous birthday of legendary musician Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
The event, held at the New Afrika Shrine in Ikeja, Lagos, under the theme “Who Are You?”, continued into the early hours of Friday, October 16.
Fela, who was born on October 15, 1938, remains an influential figure in African music, cultural expression and sociopolitical commentary.
Femi Kuti, Fela’s eldest son, entertained the audience with Afrobeat rhythms reflecting the musical tradition established by his father, while Obesere brought Fuji music to the stage, adding a different sound to the celebration.
A major highlight of the night was the joint performance by the two artistes, who blended Afrobeat and Fuji music in a collaboration that drew an enthusiastic response from the audience.
Mr Real and Lyte also performed their hit songs, adding to the excitement at the annual festival, which celebrates Fela’s contributions to Nigerian music, culture and activism.
Some attendees praised the combination of musical styles, describing the performances as an entertaining way to honour the Afrobeat pioneer’s legacy.
One attendee, Adebayo Oladimeji, said Femi Kuti’s performance demonstrated the continuing influence of his father’s music.
“Watching Femi perform was a special experience because he continues to carry his father’s musical legacy forward.
“It was a fitting tribute to Fela and I look forward to other performances and the grand finale,” Oladimeji said.
Another attendee, Chiamaka Nwosu, said Obesere’s performance brought a distinctive musical flavour to the event.
“I enjoyed Obesere’s performance because Fuji music added another dimension to the event, as you could see how the dance floor came alive.
“It was exciting to see different musical styles come together to celebrate Fela,” she said.
Tunde Adebayo said the festival provided an opportunity for younger audiences to appreciate Fela’s contributions to music and society.
“The celebration is entertaining, but it also reminded us of Fela’s impact on music and his courage in speaking about issues affecting society.
“His legacy deserves to be celebrated, not just in this moment but for life,” he said.
Felabration is an annual cultural festival conceived by Fela’s daughter, Yeni Kuti, in 1998. The event has grown into a week-long celebration featuring live music, debates, dance competitions, art exhibitions and fashion showcases.
The 2026 edition runs from October 12 to 18 at the New Afrika Shrine, bringing together established and emerging performers while encouraging audiences to engage with Fela’s influence on Nigerian and international music.
This year’s theme, “Who Are You?”, places identity and self-expression at the centre of the celebration, reflecting the enduring relevance of Fela’s music and ideas across generations.
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