Felabration, the annual festival of music and arts commemorating the life and times of Nigerian’s foremost musical icon, the late Fela Anikulakpo Kuti, will take place from October 13 to 19.
The idea and concept of Felabration as an annual celebration of Fela’s music, life and times, originated from his eldest child Yeni Kuti, who conceived it in 1998. With the exception of 1999, Felabration has taken place yearly ever since.
Organised by the Felabration Organising Committee has grown into a mega week-long musical event in Nigeria which attracts thousands of visitors annually to the New Africa Shrine from all over the world. It is an official tourist destination of The Lagos State Government, a major sponsor of the event.
Among musical stars the world over that have graced the Felaberation stage include: Hugh Masakela, Lucky Dube, Awilo Logumba, Baba Maal, Les Nubians, King Sunny Ade, Lagbaja, Asa, 2Face and of course, scion of the late Afrobeat legend, Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti.
In 2008, over 50 international artistes came together from the United States, Great Britain, France and Senegal to perform at Felabration under the banner, African Express. Every year Felabration features an exciting line up of artistes designed to whet the appetite of music lovers.
Traditionally, the Felabration Week runs through the week of October that includes the 15th ensuring that Fela’s posthumous birthday celebrations are part of the Festival.