The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has published a list which contains the nominees for its class of inductees for the year 202, and out of the number of the 16 names to feature, the legendary originator of Afrobeat, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, was among.
The famed Nigerian artiste, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, prior to this nomination drew certain controversies as to his eligibility for entry given his music could not really be classified as Rock and Roll singer, but he is finally being recognized for a position in the Hall of Fame.
Fela fulfils a key criteria as his first recording released over 50 years ago meets one of the requirements of the hall of fame induction which requires nominees to have a catalogue dating back at least 25 years. Out of the number listed, five finalist will be selected by ballot to fill in the spots in the Hall of Fame as they are set to be revealed in May.
John Sykes the chairman of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation explained that the nominees were celebrated as they have impacted a lot into music, saying that “This remarkable ballot reflects the diversity and depth of the artists and music the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrates. These Nominees have left an indelible impact on the sonic landscape of the world and influenced countless artists that have followed them.”
Fela, during his time, used music as a tool of education, entertainment and activism which undoubtedly inspired so many. He is now due to be recognized as a Hall of Famer, and until April the ballots are open for interested individuals to cast their votes and accord him this due recognition.
