Afrobeats musician Seun Kuti has sharply criticised fans of Wizkid for repeatedly comparing the superstar singer to his late father, Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti, describing the comparisons as disrespectful and ill-informed.
Speaking during an Instagram Live session, Kuti urged Wizkid’s supporters to stop invoking Fela’s name in online music debates, insisting that the pioneer’s legacy should not be dragged into fan rivalries or social media conflicts.
“Keep Fela’s name out of your mouths. Why must you always find a way to bring Fela into your discussions?” Kuti said. “You try to claim that your artiste is the new Fela, and when you realise the shoes are too big to fill, you turn around.”
The singer argued that such comparisons reflect a lack of understanding of Fela’s historical, cultural, and political impact, adding that the disrespect stems not from rebellion but from ignorance.
“If your lack of respect came from a place of defiance, I would respect it,” he said. “But your lack of respect comes from a place of ignorance. Complete ignorance.”
Kuti also condemned what he described as unnecessary rivalry fuelled by fan bases, questioning why music lovers cannot appreciate artists without pitting them against one another. According to him, constant comparisons suggest dissatisfaction rather than genuine appreciation of the music itself.
“You know why you cannot enjoy your artiste’s music without comparing it to something else? Because the music does not fulfill your spirits,” he said.
He further stressed that meaningful art should inspire reflection and calm, not provoke online battles and controversy. Kuti warned Wizkid’s fans to leave his father’s name out of fan conflicts, describing Fela’s legacy as non-negotiable.
Recalling previous clashes with Wizkid’s supporters, Seun Kuti said he would continue to defend his father’s legacy, highlighting his family’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Afrobeat through initiatives such as Felabration.
