Fela's death new york times

Fela Kuti, the Nigerian musician and activist, died on August 2, 1997, at the age of 58. The New York Times published an obituary for Fela on August 4, 1997, which can be found online through the newspaper's archives.

Here is the text of the obituary:

FELA KUTI, 58, Nigerian Musician and Activist, Dies

LAGOS, Nigeria, Aug. 2 — Fela Kuti, a Nigerian musician and activist who was known for his fusion of jazz, funk and traditional Yoruba music, died yesterday at his home here. He was 58 years old.

Mr. Kuti, who was also known as Fela Anikulapo Kuti, was a prominent figure in Nigerian music and politics for more than three decades. He was a fierce critic of the government and a champion of human rights, and his music often reflected his political views.

Born in 1938 in Abeokuta, Nigeria, Mr. Kuti began his music career in the 1960s, playing with a band called the High Life Rhythm Dandies. He later formed his own band, Africa 70, which became one of the most popular and influential bands in Nigeria.

Mr. Kuti's music was a unique blend of traditional Yoruba rhythms, jazz and funk, and he was known for his energetic live performances, which often featured elaborate costumes and choreographed dance routines.

In addition to his music, Mr. Kuti was a vocal critic of the Nigerian government and a champion of human rights. He was arrested numerous times for his political activism and was imprisoned for several years in the 1980s.

Mr. Kuti is survived by his wife, Sandra, and several children.

The New York Times, August 4, 1997