Fela Kuti, the Nigerian Afrobeat pioneer, was known for his outspoken lyrics and unwavering dedication to social justice. One aspect of his personality often overlooked is his close relationship with artist Lemi Ghariokwu. As Ghariokwu's friend and confidant, he witnessed firsthand the highs and lows of their collaboration.
The two met in 1974 when Ghariokwu was just an 18-year-old engineering student. Kuti had been gifted Kalakuta by his mother, the pan-African activist Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and had transformed it into a commune-cum-fiefdom for his followers. It was there that Ghariokwu first met Kuti's journalist friend Babatunde Harrison and was commissioned to paint the sleeve of his next album, Alagbon Close.
Ghariokwu recalls the meeting vividly, noting that Kuti's eyes were bloodshot, and he was only dressed in his briefs. The young artist felt intimidated but received a warm welcome from Kuti, who complimented his work with a generous payment. Over the next few years, Ghariokwu continued to collaborate with Kuti on various album sleeves, including No Bread, Ikoyi Blindness, and Johnny Just Drop.
However, their collaboration was not without its challenges. In 1977, Kuti's headquarters in Lagos was attacked by soldiers, leading to a tragic loss of life for Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, who fell from the second-floor window during the assault. This event had a profound impact on Kuti, and Ghariokwu notes that it marked a turning point in their friendship.
Ghariokwu's own spiritual journey was influenced by his association with Kuti. Although he remained teetotal, he began to explore the artistic potential of marijuana after being introduced to its effects. The artist credits Kuti with opening his eyes to the substance and encouraging him to tap into his creative potential. Ghariokwu has since reflected on the experience, acknowledging that it had a profound impact on his art.
Despite their differences, Ghariokwu remained devoted to Kuti until the end of his life in 1997. The two men reconciled several years after their falling out and continued to collaborate on various projects before Kuti's passing.
Through their relationship, Kuti and Ghariokwu played a significant role in shaping African culture globally, with Kuti's music and artwork serving as powerful symbols of resistance against social injustice. As pan-Africanists, both men understood the importance of artistic expression in promoting mental liberation for the African people.
The two met in 1974 when Ghariokwu was just an 18-year-old engineering student. Kuti had been gifted Kalakuta by his mother, the pan-African activist Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and had transformed it into a commune-cum-fiefdom for his followers. It was there that Ghariokwu first met Kuti's journalist friend Babatunde Harrison and was commissioned to paint the sleeve of his next album, Alagbon Close.
Ghariokwu recalls the meeting vividly, noting that Kuti's eyes were bloodshot, and he was only dressed in his briefs. The young artist felt intimidated but received a warm welcome from Kuti, who complimented his work with a generous payment. Over the next few years, Ghariokwu continued to collaborate with Kuti on various album sleeves, including No Bread, Ikoyi Blindness, and Johnny Just Drop.
However, their collaboration was not without its challenges. In 1977, Kuti's headquarters in Lagos was attacked by soldiers, leading to a tragic loss of life for Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, who fell from the second-floor window during the assault. This event had a profound impact on Kuti, and Ghariokwu notes that it marked a turning point in their friendship.
Ghariokwu's own spiritual journey was influenced by his association with Kuti. Although he remained teetotal, he began to explore the artistic potential of marijuana after being introduced to its effects. The artist credits Kuti with opening his eyes to the substance and encouraging him to tap into his creative potential. Ghariokwu has since reflected on the experience, acknowledging that it had a profound impact on his art.
Despite their differences, Ghariokwu remained devoted to Kuti until the end of his life in 1997. The two men reconciled several years after their falling out and continued to collaborate on various projects before Kuti's passing.
Through their relationship, Kuti and Ghariokwu played a significant role in shaping African culture globally, with Kuti's music and artwork serving as powerful symbols of resistance against social injustice. As pan-Africanists, both men understood the importance of artistic expression in promoting mental liberation for the African people.
! Fela Kuti's life and work are like a testament to the power of resistance, you know? The way he used his platform to speak truth to power is still giving me chills 
. And Lemi Ghariokwu, man... I mean, what can you even say about that guy other than he was one of Fela's most loyal and talented collaborators? They had a bond that went beyond just art, it was like they were two pieces of the same puzzle 
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. And Ghariokwu's art... oh man, it's like he was able to tap into that same energy and create something truly beautiful 
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. It's a reminder that art can be both healing and painful at the same time, you feel me? 
! I always knew Fela was an icon, but it's amazing to see how deeply connected he was to his community and his art. It's like, their collab isn't just about music and visuals, it's about a whole movement of resistance and social justice 
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It's like he was this catalyst for change, you know?
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. His legacy isn't just about his music, but about the impact he had on those around him, like Lemi Ghariokwu. It's crazy to think that Ghariokwu was just a teenager when they met, and Kuti took him under his wing. Their collaboration wasn't just about art, it was about creating change 
. It's a reminder that our relationships can be a source of strength, even in difficult times 
I mean, can we talk about Fela Kuti for a sec? 
He was barely clothed! You'd think that would be a weird thing to remember about your friend. But Ghariokwu was cool with it, and he even credits Kuti for introducing him to marijuana - which changed his art forever. 
Just saying, let's give it up for the unsung heroes of African culture. They might not be as famous as Fela Kuti, but they're just as important. 
. But at the same time, it's also kinda sad that they had their differences and had a falling out 
. And what's up with the military attack on Kuti's headquarters in 1977? That's just crazy 
. I guess it's all part of the complex history of Nigeria during that time period. Still, it's cool to see how Ghariokwu was influenced by Kuti and vice versa 
. Their legacy lives on through their art, which is still inspiring people today 
. That Kalakuta commune was a hub of creativity & revolution 
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and feeling like I was part of something bigger than myself. Fela Kuti's music was so powerful back then! It's crazy to think about how far back his roots go - 1974 is ancient history for us now 
It's amazing how much of an impact he had on Lemi's life and art. I feel like we're losing some of that old-school spirit nowadays 
. Anyway, it's always cool to hear about the pioneers who paved the way for us.
it's crazy how much Ghariokwu was influenced by their friendship - like he used to be teetotal but then got into marijuana and it opened his eyes to art 
. And can you believe Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti fell from the window during that attack on Kuti's HQ in 1977 
he was more than just an artist, he was a movement 
️ i love how his friend Lemi Ghariokwu got to be part of that journey - must've been crazy to grow up in Kalakuta 