The Influence: Legends' Thoughts On Fela Kuti

The wingspan of Fela Kuti's influence transcends genres, borders and generations — through the years, we've seen shades of the afrobeat pioneer's vision and aesthetic pop up in such varied areas as American hip-hop, political activism, underground music, dance clubs, human rights campaigns and plenty others.

To commemorate what would have been Fela's 75th birthday this week and the release of KFR Records' Red Hot + Fela, we'll be posting video interviews of both legendary and contemporary musicians speaking about the influence Fela's music has had on their own work and life. Below, watch clips from Brian Eno, Common, George Clinton, Merrill Garbus of tUnE-yArDs, Ray Lema, Jim James, Robert Glasper, Alex Gibney, ?uestlove, Baloji, Talib Kweli, Bill T Jones, M1 of Dead Prez, Alabama Shakes, Wunmi, Dele and a previously shared video from Paul McCartney. Keep checking back each day as we publish more!

Paul McCartney

?uestlove

Merrill Garbus

Common

George Clinton

Jim James of My Morning Jacket

Talib Kweli

Robert Glasper

Baloji

Brian Eno

M1 of Dead Prez

Ray Lema

Bill T Jones

Wunmi

Brittany Howard of Alabama Shakes

Alex Gibney

Dele

BBC Felabration Segment