Fela Makes History as First African Inducted Into Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Legendary Nigerian icon Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has achieved another global milestone, becoming the first African artist to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Fela will be honoured in the “Early Influence” category, alongside notable figures like Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Gram Parsons, and Celia Cruz. The announcement was made during a live broadcast of American Idol in the United States.
Also earning recognition this year is Sade Adu, who will be inducted in the performance category.
Several global stars—including Shakira, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, New Edition, and Pink—were nominated but did not make the final list.
More than 1,200 artists, historians, and industry professionals participated in the voting process.
The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
This latest recognition adds to Fela’s growing legacy, coming shortly after he was posthumously awarded a Grammy Lifetime Achievement honour earlier this year – further cementing his influence on global music culture.
