Renowned musician Burna Boy has shared his perspective that it’s fortunate that the legendary musician Fela Kuti didn’t exist in the present generation, as he believes that Fela’s modern-day fans would likely have criticized him and even called for his arrest. Burna Boy expressed this viewpoint during a recent interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe in New York.
Burna Boy, known for hits like ‘Odogwu,’ has a family connection to Fela Kuti through his maternal grandfather, who was Fela’s first manager. Burna Boy explained that he believes Fela’s impact was best suited for the era in which he lived, as it allowed him to communicate his messages through his music.
He commented:
“What I’ve come to realize is that the times we live in are quite interesting. Fela, during his time, was going through experiences that, if he were present today, might have generated a completely different reaction. Many of the Nigerians celebrating Fela today could have been the same individuals using platforms like Twitter to call for Fela’s arrest.
“So, at the end of the day, I think that God doesn’t make mistakes. What I mean is that the timing is perfect for each person. If Fela were here today and his career started now, he might not have the same freedom to explore his creative consciousness, mainly because today’s society doesn’t align with that spiritual essence. Today, spirituality is nearly absent.
“The current environment is largely driven by ignorance and foolishness. While it was similar in Fela’s time, it wasn’t as prominently showcased or accessible. Presently, everything seems to be defined by ignorance and foolishness.
“I’m grateful that he [Fela] existed in his time, as it allows us to experience the authentic nature of his being, understand his core values, and grasp the messages he conveyed to us.”