The organisers of Felabration have announced that this year’s edition of the annual music festival in memory and celebration of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti will hold from Monday, 14 October to Sunday, 20 October 2024.
This was announced in a press release made available to journalists in Lagos on Wednesday, 8th June 2024.
The theme for this year’s edition is ‘Look and Laugh,’ an iconic song originally released by Fela Kuti in 1980 as part of his album ‘Coffin for Head of State,’ holds a special place in the hearts of many fans, as it remains a true and derisive reflection of the various faces of modern-day corruption. The lyrics subtly condemn self-serving actions and satirically calls on listeners to open their eyes to the truth and act against oppression.
Yeni Kuti, Head of the Felabration Organising Committee, expressed her excitement for this year’s theme, stating: “With ‘Look and Laugh,’ we honour Fela’s legacy by embracing his message of resilience and expression. In a country grappling with record levels of inflation, currency devaluation, and rising food and fuel prices, this year’s theme takes on renewed significance.
“Felabration 2024 aims to ignite conversations, provoke reflection, and inspire action, carrying forward Fela’s legacy of social consciousness and innovation through entertainment,” she added.
Felabration, the annual celebration of Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s life, music, and legacy, has long been a cultural touchpoint for music enthusiasts, activists, artists, and fans worldwide. Each year, the festival serves as a rallying point to commemorate Fela’s enduring impact on music, politics, and culture.
The unveiling of the logo and theme marks the beginning of the journey towards October’s festival, promising an enriching experience for attendees.
Felabration 2024 will present an authentic and vivid showcase of African music, creativity, and resilience through art, dance, fashion, and music.
The festival usually features The Senior Secondary Schools Debate, The Fela Debates (Symposium), The Afrobics Dance Competition, The Artwork Competition, The Dress Fela Fashion Competition, The Musical Concert and other activities.
According to the organizers, the concert will feature some of the biggest music stars from Nigeria and foreign artistes also registered to perform at the New Afrika Shrine in Ikeja, Lagos.
Felabration is a week-long celebration of Fela’s legacy as the creator of the Afrobeat genre and as a renowned human rights activist.
Conceived in 1998 by Yeni Anikulapo-Kuti to honour the legacy of her father, Felabration is Nigeria’s biggest music festival today. It host tens of thousands of attendees annually.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
