Seun Kuti & Egypt 80

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 is an afrobeat and jùjú group from Lagos, Nigeria. The act is led by Seun Kuti, also known as Oluseun Anikulapo Kuti, the youngest son of afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti and the brother of Femi Kuti. The orchestra is Egypt 80, the former band of Fela Kuti, and the group records under Seun Kuti & Egypt 80. The members include Adekunle Adebiyi, Ajayi Adebiyi, Iyabo Adeniran, Oyinade Adeniran, Okon Iyamba, Kunle Justice, Seun Kuti, David Obanyedo, Alade Oluwagbemiga, Kola Onasanya and Wale Toriola.

Background and music

The group develops the Afrobeat tradition associated with the Kuti family and combines it with jùjú influences. Seun Kuti sings and leads the band, with Egypt 80 providing the large ensemble sound built around rhythm, horns and guitar interplay. The project continues the legacy of Fela Kuti’s former orchestra, while remaining centred on Seun Kuti’s own compositions and performances.

Recordings and recognition

Seun Kuti has also recorded as Seun Kuti & Black Thought. The album Black Times receives a Grammy nomination in the World Music category in 2018. In 2019, TIME Magazine names Kuti among its “100 Most Influential People” for music and activism.

Performance and family context

Seun Kuti grows up around Egypt 80 and performs with the group from a young age. He spends time in England studying music briefly. The band remains closely tied to Lagos and to the wider Kuti family’s political and musical history.