THIRTY-SIX YEARS AGO — FELA ANIKULAPO-KUTI AT THE BADAGRY BLACK MUSIC FESTIVAL In October 1990, legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, popularly known as Baba 70, took the stage at the Badagry Black Music Festival and delivered the kind of performance that made him one of Africa’s most unforgettable musical and political figures. Fela was never simply a musician. His music was a platform for confronting corruption, oppression, injustice and abuse of power. During his performances, he could move effortlessly between music, political commentary, humour and direct criticism of those in authority. In this classic footage, Fela once again speaks his mind, reminding us why he was both celebrated and feared by those he challenged. That man truly liked wahala in his time 😂😂 Badagry, an ancient coastal town in present-day Lagos State, carries enormous historical significance. The town became an important centre in the history of the transatlantic slave trade and today serves as an important site of remembrance, heritage and African resistance. The Badagry Festival later developed into a major annual cultural gathering, formally established in 1999 by the African Renaissance Foundation (AREFO). It commemorates the abolition of the slave trade while celebrating African culture and the historical connections between Africa and the African diaspora. The festival features traditional dances, masquerades, cultural performances, fire displays, football competitions and the famous Sato Drum. Standing approximately three metres tall, the massive drum is played with seven sticks and has become one of Badagry’s most recognisable cultural symbols. The festival also includes Liberation Day celebrations, reflecting on the end of the transatlantic slave trade and the continuing importance of preserving Badagry’s history. Read more about Fela’s struggles with the Nigerian government in our book, Untold Chronicles. 📚 Send us a DM for your hardcopy.WhatsApp 09010030287 🔗 E-book lovers can discover more stories in our e-book store through the link in our bio. #Historylovers - @historylovers_001