Former US President Barack Obama has paid tribute to Nigerian Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti with the release of a new podcast series titled “Fela Kuti: Fear No Man.” Announced by Mr. Obama on his Instagram page, the podcast is produced by Higher Ground, the media company he co-founded with his wife Michelle Obama. The series is dedicated to exploring the Afrobeat icon's revolutionary spirit, enduring legacy, and profound impact on music and activism.

The podcast, a 12-part series hosted by Jad Abumrad, premiered its first two episodes – “To Hell and Back” and “Becoming Fela” – on October 15. This release was strategically timed to coincide with Felabration, the annual week-long global celebration held from October 13-19, which honors Fela's life and contributions. These initial episodes meticulously detail the evolution of Fela's distinctive musical style and his unwavering activism against oppression, which was a cornerstone of his artistry.

“Fela Kuti: Fear No Man” features an impressive array of voices, incorporating both recent and archival interviews with notable figures from the arts world. Guests include Ayo Edebiri, Santigold, Questlove, Paul McCartney, David Byrne, and Burna Boy, among others. Crucially, the podcast also offers intimate family perspectives, with appearances from Fela’s children, Yeni and Femi Kuti, and his grandson, Mádé Kuti, who share personal insights into the musician’s life and profound legacy.

In promoting the series, Mr. Obama, 64, encouraged fans to listen, describing Fela Anikulapo-Kuti as a true Nigerian musical genius. He highlighted Fela’s unique ability to blend funk, jazz, and soul to forge the globally recognized Afrobeat sound. Obama underscored Fela’s singular position in music history, emphasizing how his artistic expression was inextricably linked with his activism. Referencing a previous Higher Ground documentary, Obama remarked, “It’s a beautiful show about a unique figure in musical history who mixed art with activism.”

Reflecting on the power of Fela’s music, Obama specifically noted in the “To Hell and Back” episode that Fela’s compositions did more than just entertain; they were a catalyst for inspiration. He stated, “Music like Fellas can get folks moving, getting them on their feet, and making them feel alive. Our very best art and our very best music stir the soul,” highlighting the deep emotional and physical response that Fela’s work evoked in his audience.