Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has secured a historic place in global music after being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, becoming the first African artist to receive the honour.
He will be recognised in the Early Influence category alongside music icons such as Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Gram Parsons, and Celia Cruz.
The announcement was made in the United States during a live broadcast of American Idol, where this year’s honourees were unveiled.
In the Performance category, Nigerian-born British star Sade Adu also earned recognition for her contributions to music.
However, several high-profile nominees, including Shakira, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, New Edition, and Pink, were not selected for induction this year.
The selection process involved over 1,200 voters, including industry experts, historians, and fellow artists.
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The induction ceremony is set for November 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, where Fela’s enduring influence on global music will be celebrated.
The honour adds to a growing list of international recognitions for the Afrobeat pioneer, who earlier in the year became the first African artist to receive a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.