Veteran Afrobeat legend Femi Kuti credits his lasting career to treating music like medicine—practiced daily, crafted with purpose, and kept real. He challenged rising artists to study their craft, not just chase hits.
Femi Kuti, the son of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti, says his enduring success over four decades comes from treating music like medicine. He told the Afropolitan podcast that artists must commit to practice, purpose and depth if they want to remain relevant.
The 63-year-old musician explained that he still rehearses, studies his craft and writes his own songs to maintain his edge. “When the head is not correct, nothing can be correct,” he said, adding that many young artists focus on hits rather than depth.
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Femi said that, like medicine, music must heal, inform and continue to work over time. He referenced musicians like Miles Davis and Stevie Wonder, who remained active and studied their craft.
Growing up under his father’s mentorship, Femi absorbed the ethos of Afrobeat’s social purpose. He said he still practices saxophone and piano daily and composes his own songs to ensure authenticity.
He cautioned young musicians against making music only for fame or quick profits. “If you are not writing your music and you are buying, would you still be doing that at 40?” he asked.
Femi’s ongoing dedication has earned him multi-generational fans—parents and children attend his concerts alike. He says this breadth is proof that musical medicine works.
He plans to release more music that reflects social issues, personal growth and musical mastery. Watch for new tracks, collaborations and live shows that lean into purpose over trend.
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