Made Kuti says Fela died broke

Made claims Fela died broke

Grammy-nominated Afrobeat musician Made Kuti has opened up about the financial state of his grandfather, the late music icon Fela Anikulapo Kuti.

He said the pioneer of Afrobeat passed away poor despite making huge sums during his career.

“Fela died poor. He was the kind of person who made a bunch of cash and had the kind of money that could have bought the whole street,” Made said during an appearance on the Tea By Tae podcast.

He explained that Fela’s generosity and open-door lifestyle meant that his wealth was constantly shared with others. 

“Anybody from the street could walk into Fela’s house. He would return from a show in Kalakuta, open a box of money, and say anybody who needs it should take it,” he recalled.

Made’s account mirrors stories told by his father, Femi Kuti, and uncle, Seun Kuti, who have both spoken about life growing up in Kalakuta Republic. 

They revealed that Fela even insisted they call him by his name rather than “Dad,” as he didn’t want them to receive special treatment.