Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has been posthumously recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Recording Academy, becoming the first African artist to receive the prestigious honour.
The award was conferred at the 2026 Special Merit Awards ceremony held in Los Angeles on Saturday, January 31, ahead of the main Grammy Awards event. It was accepted on behalf of the late musician by his children Yeni, Kunle, Shalewa and Femi Kuti.
Speaking at the ceremony, Yeni Kuti thanked the Recording Academy for the recognition, saying she believed her father would be proud of the moment. She also acknowledged her siblings who were unable to attend, Motunrayo and Seun, and commended her nephew, Made Kuti, for advancing Afrobeat on the global stage.
Femi Kuti, in his remarks, expressed appreciation to those who continue to promote Afrobeat worldwide, including DJs, media professionals, their record label Partisan, legal representatives and fans across the globe. He described the award as significant not only for their father but also for Africa and the global struggle for justice and peace
Grammy Academy honours Fela Kuti with posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award
