Seun Kuti Speaks on Kanye
OpenLife Nigeria reports that Afrobeat star Seun Kuti has once again shown why he is a fierce guardian of his father Fela Kuti’s legacy, calling out global stars who try to bypass him.
In a candid statement, Seun revealed that both Diddy and Kanye West had tried to reach him indirectly but he wasn’t impressed by their tactics.
“Na my side Diddy first take start, many of his envoys reached out… E just be like Kanye West. Kanye West send Bankulli to me. Make una go ask Bankulli wetin I tell am, because we dey see front. Nkan tamale kole bowa loju (we won’t allow what we will eat or gain to cover our face).
“Why would they want to go and meet inferior when the original is there? They must first come to the original. Na when we come say we no want, then they can go then go to the inferior. That is how Kanye West came and was saying he was possessed by the spirit of Fela, you? How?”
In Seun’s eyes, respect comes before opportunity.
No matter how famous or influential someone is, they cannot shortcut their way to him or to the Afrobeat legacy he represents through intermediaries.
He also reacted sharply to Kanye West’s past claim of being
“possessed by the spirit of Fela,” responding with incredulity: “You? How?”
For Seun, Fela’s music and spirit are sacred, not a gimmick to be worn or claimed for personal gain.
With his mix of Yoruba wisdom, street-level bluntness, and unwavering pride, Seun made it clear that his principle is simple: if you want the culture, you must first face the source.
This is not just a matter of ego; it’s a statement about heritage, authenticity, and the sacredness of Fela Kuti’s enduring influence.
Seun’s words serve as a reminder that global stars must respect African musical roots and that shortcuts and back channels will not work with the original.
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