Nigerian Afrobeat icons Femi Kuti and Made Kuti have received prestigious nominations for the 2021 Grammy Awards. Their collaborative album Legacy+, released in February 2021, has been shortlisted in the *Best Global Music Album* category. This news was officially announced today by the Recording Academy, recognizing the influence of the Kuti family in the global music scene.
Femi Kuti, a four-time Grammy nominee, is the son of the legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti. His music has long been associated with the Afrobeat movement, combining traditional African rhythms with jazz, funk, and highlife influences. Made Kuti, Femi’s son, is continuing the family’s musical legacy through this joint album, marking his debut on the Grammy stage.
The album Legacy+ is a two-part project that includes Femi’s Stop the Hate and Made’s For(e)ward. Femi Kuti’s portion of the album continues his tradition of socially conscious music, addressing political corruption, inequality, and the struggles of the African continent. On the other hand, Made Kuti’s section introduces fresh Afrobeat sounds, embracing modern elements while staying true to the genre’s roots. Together, their work embodies the intergenerational impact of the Kuti family’s music.
The Grammy nomination for Legacy+ highlights Afrobeat’s growing influence worldwide. The nomination is seen as recognition of not just the Kuti family but of Afrobeat as a genre, which has inspired musicians across the globe. The Best Global Music Album category honors albums that incorporate global music traditions with contemporary artistry.
This marks a milestone in Made Kuti’s career as he makes his Grammy debut, while his father, Femi Kuti, continues to solidify his legacy as a global Afrobeat ambassador. Both musicians expressed their excitement for the nomination on social media, thanking their fans for their support.
The 63rd Annual Grammy Awards will take place on March 14, 2021, in Los Angeles, and the competition for the Best Global Music Album category includes a diverse lineup of international artists.
The Kuti family’s influence on the global stage continues to grow, making this nomination a proud moment for Nigerian and African music lovers worldwide.