Baba Ani Reflects On Life With Late Fela Kuti
Legendary baritone saxophonist and bandleader, Lekan Animashaun, popularly known as Baba Ani, has opened up on his long-time relationship with Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo Kuti.
Baba Ani, who served as a key member and musical director in several of Fela’s bands, shared his memories during a recent appearance on The Podcast Network.
According to him, he still deeply misses the late icon who treated him like family.
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“I miss Fela a lot because he trusted me and he believed in me. He took me like a senior brother, not an employee,” he noted.
Speaking on Fela’s music, the veteran saxophonist said he cherishes all of his songs.
“In all Fela’s songs, I don’t see which one I don’t like,” he stated.
When asked if Fela could read and score music, Baba Ani affirmed that he could, noting that such skill was rare among members of the band.
“Oh yes, it is true. It is difficult to find someone who could read music in Fela’s band,” he said.
Speaking on whether he had a final conversation with Fela before his passing, Baba Ani said he never had the opportunity.
“No. Once he was taken to the hospital, that was the end,” he said.
He further disclosed that after Fela’s death in 1997, he stayed back to guide his son, Seun Kuti, for nearly two decades before retiring.
“I still mentored Seun after the death of their father for 19 years before I left the band, retiring from the band in 2016,” he added.
BY ABDULBAQI JIBREEL AJAO
