Afrobeat singer, Made Kuti has stated that just like the genre pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti who’s his grandfather, music is his weapon.
Speaking with Guardian Life, Made explained that he’s someone who grew up seeing the dysfunctionality of the Nigerian system, hence his commitment to right the wrongs.
He further said music is the only way he can right the many societal wrongs in Nigeria and Africa at large.
“I grew up disliking the huge gap between the rich and poor and hated seeing how unjust and dysfunctional our country is. Every fibre of my being wanted to right as many wrongs as I could and I figured as a young boy what better way to contribute than by doing so with the art form I am so passionate about. Music is my weapon,” he said.
When asked if he’s ever pressurised by the Kuti family legacy, Made said: “No pressure at all. I grew up in the shrine with my father playing conscious music for four nights every week. I saw the integrity and passion he delivered every night he stepped on stage and witnessed the direct effects it had on the minds and bodies of people all over the world.”
Also talking about the inspiration behind For(e)ward, his debut album, Made revealed: “It’s about progress. Moving forward. Understanding what has been, what is, and what we can become as a people. It is about breaking the shackles of restricted education and seeing life for what it is. It’s about growth. It’s about loving ourselves but understanding progress requires effort.”
