Femi Kuti Completes 24 Shows in 1 Month on North America Tour at 63

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At 63, most musicians would be expected to slow down, but Afrobeat icon Femi Anikulapo-Kuti is showing no signs of easing his pace. In an astonishing display of stamina and artistry, the legendary saxophonist and singer recently completed 24 shows in just one month across Canada and the United States, a feat that reinforces his status as one of Africa’s most enduring and dynamic performers.

His Grammy-nominated son proudly shared the news, Made Kuti, who celebrated his father’s relentless energy and commitment to Afrobeat. “He continues to push the boundaries of his stagemanship even at 63 years old,” Made wrote, inspiring admiration from fans around the globe.

 

A Tour Backed by a New Album

The marathon tour follows the release of Femi Kuti’s latest studio project, Journey Through Life, which dropped on April 25, 2025. The ten-track album embodies Femi’s signature Afrobeat fusion of pulsating rhythms, layered horn arrangements, and sharp social commentary, hallmarks of a career spanning over four decades.

Journey Through Life adds to his critically acclaimed discography, which includes landmark albums such as Shoki Shoki (1998), Fight to Win (2001), Day by Day (2008), No Place for My Dream (2013), and Stop the Hate (2021). His body of work has earned him six Grammy nominations, cementing his place among Africa’s most influential musical voices.

 

Honouring Fela While Creating His Legacy

As the eldest son of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, the revolutionary founder of Afrobeat, Femi has carried the weight of a formidable legacy while crafting his unique path. Since releasing his debut album, No Cause for Alarm, in 1989, he has pushed Afrobeat beyond its roots, infusing it with jazz, funk, and contemporary Nigerian sounds.

Known for his virtuosic saxophone skills and explosive live shows, Femi Kuti remains a cultural force whose performances blend entertainment with political consciousness. His lyrics have long addressed themes of government corruption, inequality, and the resilience of everyday Nigerians, ensuring that Afrobeat remains a voice for the people.

 

A Family Steeped in Music and Activism

Music and activism are inseparable threads in the Kuti family. Femi’s grandmother, Chief Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, was a fearless pan-Africanist and women’s rights leader. His father, Fela Kuti, pioneered Afrobeat as both an art form and a protest tool, while his uncle, Beko Ransome-Kuti, was a respected medical doctor and human rights activist.

Today, Femi’s siblings, Yeni Kuti and Seun Kuti, continue to use music and advocacy to challenge injustices. At the same time, his son, Made Kuti, has joined the family tradition as both a talented musician and a socially conscious voice.

 

The New Afrika Shrine: Preserving the Legacy

Beyond his global tours, Femi Kuti also serves as the artistic director of The New Afrika Shrine. This Lagos-based cultural centre celebrates the life and work of Fela Kuti. The venue has become a hub for Nigerian music, political discourse, and cultural pride, drawing local and international audiences.

 

Pushing Afrobeat to the World

Over the years, Femi has collaborated with international stars such as Coldplay, Common, Mos Def, and Red Hot Chilli Peppers, helping Afrobeat reach new audiences worldwide. His influence is not only musical but also sociopolitical, as he continues to combine performance with activism.

Femi Kuti’s successful 24-show North American tour is more than a personal triumph; it is a testament to the power and resilience of Afrobeat. At 63, he continues to break barriers, proving that age is no limitation when passion, talent, and purpose fuel the journey.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How many shows did Femi Kuti perform during his 2025 North America tour?

A1: He performed 24 shows in just one month across Canada and the United States.

Q2: How old is Femi Kuti?

A2: Femi Kuti is 63 years old.

Q3: What is the name of Femi Kuti’s latest album?

A3: His latest album is titled Journey Through Life, released on April 25, 2025.

Q4: How many Grammy nominations does Femi Kuti have?

A4: He has received six Grammy nominations throughout his career.

Q5: What is The New Afrika Shrine?

A5: The New Afrika Shrine is a cultural centre in Lagos established to honour Fela Kuti’s legacy. Femi currently serves as its artistic director.

Q6: Who are some international artists Femi Kuti has collaborated with?

A6: Femi has worked with Coldplay, Common, Mos Def, and Red Hot Chilli Peppers, among others.

Q7: What makes Femi Kuti’s music unique?

A7: His music blends Afrobeat with elements of jazz, funk, and Nigerian traditional sounds, while addressing social and political issues through energetic performances.