Tags
Africa, Amandla!, Fela Kuti, Fela!, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Jay-Z, musical, Will Smith
Fela Kuti
My girlfriend and I saw Fela! at the Ahmanson Theater in Los Angeles, and if you haven’t made time to catch this musical, you are doing yourself a disservice. Never before have I been so engrossed and enthralled with a story that I didn’t want it to end.
You may check out your favorite website for information on Fela Anikulapo Kuti, but let me say that his story is one of musical genius, revolutionary action, and a celebration of what it means to be Black (not just African). Aaannnd of course, his story includes a bit of drug abuse and womanizing
too–few leaders have been able to avoid those vices. Still, his story does remind me a bit of the movie Amandla! (look it up!). One thing is for sure, music can be a weapon.
Fela! is amazing and a must-see! The performers did an amazing job.
Big up! to Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter (he deserves to be known by his government name on this one) and Will & Jada Smith for being executive producers for this musical. I really appreciate them doing that.
“Aaannnd of course, his story includes a bit of drug abuse and womanizing too–few leaders have been able to avoid those vices.”
MLK looked up from his grave and said, “Quit hatin’!”