Veteran dancehall and Afrobeats star credits Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti for laying the foundational blueprint for global recognition.
Veteran Nigerian musician and dancehall icon Inetimi Timaya Odon, popularly known as Timaya, has asserted that contemporary Nigerian music would not enjoy its current global prominence without the foundational contributions of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Speaking during a recent interview on the Afrobeats Podcast with media personality Adesope Olajide, the hitmaker reflected on the history of African music, emphasizing that Fela’s creative bravery and distinct sonic architecture created the global gateway for future generations.
Crediting the Afrobeat Pioneer for Global Exposure
Highlighting the historical evolution of the genre, Timaya argued that Fela served as the primary catalyst that introduced international audiences to West African musical sensibilities.
He stated that current Afrobeats stars enjoy global platforms, arena tours, and international awards largely because Fela cleared the path decades ago under far more challenging circumstances.
“Without Fela, Nigerian music wouldn’t have been popular,” Timaya stated during the broadcast. “Fela is the pillar. He was the one who put the music on the world map and showed everyone what African sound looks like before any of us came into the picture.”
The singer added that while modern artists leverage social media and digital streaming platforms to achieve global reach, Fela achieved worldwide acclaim solely through raw talent, live performances, and powerful socio-political messaging.
Emphasizing Cultural Respect Among Contemporary Stars
Timaya further urged contemporary African artists to maintain respect and reverence for industry pioneers who built the infrastructure the modern ecosystem now enjoys.
He noted that acknowledging historical roots does not diminish the achievements of current stars, but rather provides necessary context for the global success Afrobeats is experiencing today.
The “Dem Mama” crooner’s remarks have generated widespread discussion across social media, with music enthusiasts and historians echoing his sentiments regarding Fela Kuti’s enduring influence on global pop culture.
As Afrobeats continues its expansion across international charts, Timaya’s comments serve as a reminder of the generational bridge connecting traditional Afrobeat origins to modern global music markets.
Timaya’s interview on the Afrobeats Podcast
