We continue our exploration of World Cup competing nations with one from Fela Kuti, one of the most important Nigerian artists of the 20th century. Beyond his contributions to music, he was heavily involved in politics (mostly pro-socialism and anti-militarism) and many of his songs were indictments of his country’s government. A staunch human rights activist, Fela was described posthumously as a cross between Che Guevara and Bob Marley. His was a fascinating life that just so happened to also include a formidable music career. Being the unworldly music fan as I was way back in 2007, I’d never encountered his music before. Lucky for me, one of my co-workers unearthed a second copy of Live! in his collection and gifted it to me on my birthday in 2008.
Recorded in 1971, Live! features Kuti with his band (the Africa 70), accompanied by former Cream drummer Ginger Baker on two songs. Around the time of the recorded Baker travelled with Kuti around the continent to learn about its rhythms. The pair had met previously while Fela was in London recording at the same studio as Baker (at least I think that’s true). Baker always described that meeting as one of the most profoundly important experiences in his life. Although not on the LP, the CD reissue contains a 16-minute drum-off between Baker and Kuti’s drummer Tony Allen. It’s pretty much a mindblowing percussive voyage. The whole album has a tangible energy you don’t often find on live releases. This sounds like the topic for a Friday Top Ten list…best live albums. I’ll have to remember that for future reference…
Fela Ransome-Kuti And The Africa ’70 With Ginger Baker
Live!
(Signpost – SP8 401, 1971)
A1. Let’s Start
A2. Black Man’s Cry [MP3]
B1. Ye Ye De Smell
B2. Egbe Mi O (Carry Me I Want To Die)
