Placed at the site of his former studies.
Pioneering Nigerian musician Fela Kuti has been made the recipient of a new plaque to commemorate his career and time spent studying at London’s Trinity College of Music.
The installation arrives as part of the Black Plaque Project which will see 30 plaques honouring key Black figures placed throughout the city. Among those present for the installation of Kuti’s plaque – which remains in place for three weeks – was Egypt 80 musical director Dele Sosimi, who also teaches afrobeat studies at Trinity Laban.
Speaking of the event, Sosimi stated
“Words fail me. I am buzzing, I am glowing, I am so proud. It’s a lovely thing… I feel like the plaque represents my joy and pride.
Fela was a live and let live guy, he had so much love and respect for art. He was a true artist. He always said to me ‘it’s all about holding down the groove’ so as his rhythm pianist, I always held the groove. Right from day one, I was hooked. I teach afrobeat here at Trinity Laban, so to see this here, now – hopefully it will encourage more students to participate in afrobeat and spread the horizon of up and coming musicians.”
Responding to the news Fela Kuti’s son Femi and grandson Made Kuti – who similarly to his grandfather also completed studies at Trinity Laban – sent a message of thanks which is available to watch below.
Words by Sam Wilkinson.
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Fruit and Grooves Collective 