Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has been posthumously honoured with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, becoming the first African musician to receive the prestigious recognition from the Recording Academy.
The award was presented at the 2026 Special Merit Awards held in Los Angeles on Saturday, January 31, a day ahead of the main Grammy Awards ceremony.
Fela’s children — Yeni, Kunle, Shalewa, and Femi Kuti — were in attendance to receive the award on his behalf.
Speaking at the ceremony, Yeni Kuti expressed gratitude to the Recording Academy, describing the honour as a deeply emotional moment for the family.
“I’m sure my father is smiling down on us,” she said, while also acknowledging her siblings Motunrayo and Seun Kuti, who were absent from the event, as well as her nephew Made Kuti, whom she praised for advancing Afrobeat to a new generation.
Fela’s eldest son, Femi Kuti, also addressed the audience, thanking individuals and organisations that have helped preserve and promote Afrobeat globally.
He acknowledged the contributions of DJs, media professionals, record labels, legal teams, and fans worldwide, describing the award as a landmark achievement not only for their late father, but for Africa and the global struggle for justice and peace.
“This is so important for Africa and for the world,” Femi said, noting that the recognition reflects the enduring influence of Afrobeat as a vehicle for social consciousness.
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti shared the Lifetime Achievement Award with other iconic figures in global music, including Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, Cher, and Paul Simon.