Nigerian music icon Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has etched his name in global music history as the first African artist ever inducted into the prestigious Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Fela will be honoured in the Early Influence category this year, joining other celebrated inductees including Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, country-rock pioneer Gram Parsons, and Cuban music legend Celia Cruz.
The announcement was made on Monday night in the United States during a broadcast of American Idol, revealing the artists selected by more than 1,200 voters made up of musicians, historians, and industry professionals.
Also set to be honoured in the Performance Category is Nigerian-born British singer Sade Adu.
Meanwhile, major global stars including Shakira, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, New Edition, and Pink were not selected in the final round despite their nominations.
The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 14 at the historic Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
This latest recognition adds to Fela’s growing list of international honours. Earlier this year, he also became the first African musician to receive a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, further cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in global music history.