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Tekno has reignited a long-running conversation about the history of Afrobeats after questioning the widely accepted narrative around Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s place in the genre’s development. During an interview with Hot 97 in New York, the Nigerian singer acknowledged Fela’s enormous influence but argued that other Nigerian musicians also deserve greater recognition.
As a result, his comments have shifted the conversation from today’s global Afrobeats success to the musicians and sounds that helped build its foundation.
Tekno made it clear that he respects Fela’s contribution to African music. However, he argued that the history of the sound should not focus on one individual alone.
In particular, he highlighted legendary highlife musician Oliver De Coque and other musicians from eastern Nigeria. According to Tekno, their contributions form part of the wider musical history that eventually influenced contemporary African pop.
Importantly, the discussion requires some historical distinction. Afrobeat, the politically charged genre Fela developed and popularised, differs from the modern Afrobeats movement that dominates global pop culture today.
Therefore, when artists discuss who created Afrobeats, they are often referring to different eras, sounds and musical movements.
Tekno has also played a notable role in the evolution of contemporary Nigerian pop.
The singer rose to prominence during the 2010s with records including “Duro,” “Pana,” “Rara” and “Jogodo.” In particular, “Pana” became a major international hit and helped reinforce Tekno’s reputation as one of the era’s influential Afrobeats hitmakers.
Moreover, the record has now reached its tenth anniversary, giving fans another opportunity to reflect on Tekno’s impact on the sound’s modern evolution.
More recently, he released his third studio album, Where Did Love Go?, on July 3, 2026. The eight-track project continues his melodic approach to Afrobeats while exploring themes around love and relationships.
Tekno’s comments have triggered debate among music fans and industry observers. Some have welcomed his call for broader recognition of Nigerian musical pioneers, while others maintain that Fela’s contribution remains central to the history of the sound.
However, the larger issue goes beyond one artist’s opinion. The discussion raises important questions about how Nigeria documents its musical history and recognises the people who shaped it.
Fela Kuti remains a defining figure in the history of Afrobeat and Nigerian music.
Afrobeats has become one of Africa’s most successful cultural exports. Consequently, the question of its origins carries significant cultural weight.
Furthermore, recognising the genre’s evolution can help audiences understand how highlife, Afrobeat, pop, hip-hop, R&B and other African sounds contributed to the music dominating international charts today.
Tekno may have reopened a sensitive debate, but his comments have also encouraged listeners to look beyond the most familiar names and explore the wider history of African music.
Tekno continues to promote Where Did Love Go?, while his comments about Afrobeats history remain part of the ongoing music conversation.
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