Madé Kuti and The Movement: A New Voice in Afrobeat
Madé Kuti, the son of Femi Kuti and grandson of the legendary Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, is carrying forward the family legacy with a fresh and innovative approach to Afrobeat. His debut album Forward, released in 2022, showcased his extraordinary talent as a multi-instrumentalist. However, translating that solo effort into a live performance proved challenging. This led to the formation of The Movement, a band that has now become central to his musical identity. Their debut album, Where Does Happiness Come From? Chapter One, set for release on July 25 via Legacyplus Records, marks a significant milestone in modern Afrobeat.
The album is a bold and progressive statement, blending sharp arrangements, inventive rhythms, and thought-provoking lyrics. It’s a work that demands repeated listens, revealing new layers with each play. The soundscapes are dense yet cohesive, and the fusion of horns and piano creates a unique sonic signature that sets it apart from traditional Afrobeat.
Madé explained that the transition from solo artist to bandleader was driven by the need to bring his music to life on stage. “I wanted to perform my first album live,” he said. “So I formed The Movement, and we’ve been together for about three years now.” The band includes four horn players, a rhythm section, and backing vocalists, making for a rich and dynamic sound. Madé plays trumpet, alto sax, tenor sax, piano, and vocals, contributing to the album’s intricate textures.
One of the standout elements of the album is its rhythmic complexity. Madé emphasized that he writes the drum parts first, often starting with an irregular time signature. For instance, the track “I Won’t Run Away” features a non-traditional rhythm that deviates from the typical pop structure. His drummer, Emmanuel Idowu, brings this vision to life with precision and creativity, adding an organic feel to the recordings.
The influence of other genres is also evident in the album. Madé mentioned his early exposure to classical music, which he studied intensively at Trinity College in London. He also credits indie rock bands like Arctic Monkeys for shaping his lyrical and musical sensibilities. “I think lyrically, and sometimes musically, I’m influenced by it,” he said. This blend of influences helps create a sound that is both rooted in tradition and open to experimentation.
Message and Meaning: Beyond the Music
Lyrically, the album reflects Madé’s desire to engage with contemporary issues in Nigeria. While his father and grandfather were known for their politically charged music, Madé’s approach is more introspective. He focuses on themes of individuality, self-reflection, and societal complacency. “My songs are very direct,” he said. “They’re about taking responsibility for one’s actions and striving for personal growth.”
This message is particularly relevant in a country where education systems often neglect cultural and historical context. “The curriculum in Nigeria is very academic,” Madé noted. “You learn nothing about history or cultural significance. It’s all about exams and grades.” He believes that fostering self-awareness and critical thinking is essential for societal progress.
Tracks like “I Won’t Run Away” and “Pray” reflect this philosophy. “I Won’t Run Away” is a call to confront personal weaknesses, while “Pray” expresses hope for a better future. The song “Life as We Know It” addresses the drug epidemic in Nigeria, using humor and irony to highlight the dangers of addiction and excess. “It’s making fun of things like the escort culture and the number of cars people drive,” he said. “But it also touches on serious issues that are prevalent in our society.”
Another powerful track, “Oya,” is inspired by the 2020 End SARS protests. The song references the Lekki Massacre, where unarmed protesters were killed by security forces. “Oya means to do something,” Madé explained. “It’s a call to action, a reminder that change is possible if we come together.”
The Future of Afrobeat
Despite the challenges of touring and navigating the Nigerian music industry, Madé remains optimistic. He acknowledged the high costs of travel and the difficulties of reaching a broader audience. However, he sees value in maintaining a strong connection with the community through live performances at The Shrine, a venue that holds deep historical significance.
Madé also reflected on the evolving landscape of African music. While Afrobeats has gained global popularity, he sees it as a distinct genre from Afrobeat. “Afrobeats is more commercialized and accessible,” he said. “It represents African rhythms in a way that’s easy to listen to, but it’s not the same as Afrobeat.”
Looking ahead, Madé is already working on the next chapter of his musical journey. “Chapter Two will follow the same chronological structure,” he said. “It’s part of a larger story that I want to tell.”
As Where Does Happiness Come From? Chapter One makes its way into the world, it stands as a testament to Madé Kuti’s vision and the enduring power of Afrobeat. With The Movement, he is not just continuing a legacy—he is redefining it for a new generation.