Seun Kuti Rejects Comparison of Wizkid to Fela, Calls It Disrespectful
Grammy-nominated musician Seun Kuti has criticised attempts by fans to label Afrobeats star Wizkid as the “new Fela,” describing the comparison as disrespectful to the legacy of his late father, Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Speaking during a recent Instagram livestream, Seun Kuti cautioned members of Wizkid’s fanbase, popularly known as Wizkid FC, against drawing parallels between the global superstar and the iconic activist-musician.
Kuti said comparing any contemporary artist to his father diminishes the historical and cultural impact Fela had on music and African political activism.
“Dragging Fela’s name into these conversations is an insult,” he said. “You can’t force someone into shoes they cannot fill. People like me won’t allow that kind of disrespect to slide.”
He added that while he respects defiance, he believes the comparisons stem from ignorance rather than genuine rebellion. According to him, some fans repeatedly bring Fela into online debates unnecessarily, which he says has contributed to toxicity within the music industry.
“The overzealousness of some fanbases has damaged the industry,” Kuti stated. “There are artists who can’t even collaborate anymore because of fan rivalries.”
Kuti went further to criticise what he described as blind loyalty among fans, urging them to appreciate Wizkid’s music on its own merit instead of constantly comparing him to past legends.
“Focus on your artiste,” he said. “Why can’t you enjoy his music without comparing it to someone else? If you need to compare, it means the music is not fulfilling you spiritually.”
The outspoken performer has long defended his father’s legacy and continues to advocate for social consciousness in African music, maintaining that Fela’s influence goes far beyond entertainment.
Wizkid, who remains one of Africa’s most successful global music exports, has not responded to Kuti’s comments.
