Afrobeats singer Timaya has credited the late Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, with playing a major role in the growth and recognition of Nigerian music.
Speaking on the Afrobeats Intelligence podcast, Timaya said Fela’s influence went beyond Nigeria, inspiring him and several other Nigerian musicians.
The singer also pointed to Fela’s impact outside the country, claiming that the late music icon continues to receive significant recognition in Cameroon.
According to Timaya, Fela’s contribution to Nigerian music was so significant that he would never disrespect the late musician or any member of his family.
“Without Fela, nobody would have known us and we wouldn’t be here singing music. I call him Baba because he didn’t inspire only me and other Nigerians, go to Cameroon they honour his name like God. They even have a radio program on weekends where they only play his Music. Fela is the greatest man I can’t never in my life disrespect him nor his family,” he said.
Prompt News reports Timaya’s comments come shortly after fellow singer Tekno reiterated his position that Fela is not his “king” of Nigerian music.
Tekno, speaking in a recent interview with Yanga FM Lagos, maintained that he considers the late highlife musician Oliver De Coque his preferred music icon.
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The singer explained that his background as an Igbo man who grew up in Kaduna meant he was not exposed to Fela’s music while growing up.
“Fela is not and will never be my king [of music]. Oliver De Coque is the king for me,” he stated.
