Artist: Fela Kuti
Title: Zombie
Year: 1977
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Fela Kuti's "Zombie" is a tour de force that set the Nigerian music scene ablaze when it dropped in 1976. This Afrobeat juggernaut takes direct aim at the Nigerian military's unwavering obedience, likening them to zombies. The outcry from its release was so intense, it led to a devastating attack on Kuti's commune, the Kalakuta Republic, resulting in heart-wrenching personal loss, including the death of his mother. Despite the turmoil, Kuti's artistry shines through, blending Afrobeat's pulsating rhythms with jazz and funk to craft a sound that's as hypnotic as it is infectious.
The title track, "Zombie," is a 12-minute anthem driven by Kuti's assertive vocals and an irresistible beat that pulls you in effortlessly. Following that, "Mr. Follow Follow" stands tall with its catchy melodies and hard-hitting, socially conscious lyrics. With "Zombie," Kuti solidified his legacy as both an audacious artist and a fearless political activist. The album’s cultural and historical impact is monumental, frequently hailed by critics and listed among the greatest albums ever. If you have even a passing interest in Afrobeat, world music, or art with a powerful message, this classic is mandatory listening. -