Fela Died Broke Despite Millions Earned – Grandson Makes Shocking Revelation

Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti may have been globally revered and financially successful in his prime, but according to his grandson Made Kuti, the icon died without wealth. Speaking during a recent episode of the Tea With Tay podcast hosted by actor Taymesan, Made shared candid insights into the late musician’s lifestyle and values.

According to details obtained by iReporter Online, Made Kuti disclosed that although Fela earned significant sums throughout his career, his deep generosity and open-door philosophy ultimately left him financially depleted by the time of his death in 1997.

“He was broke. Fela died poor,” the young musician revealed. “He had the kind of money that could have bought an entire street, but he would return from a concert, open a box full of cash, and tell people to take what they needed. Anyone from the street could walk into his home. It was completely open—people came and went freely.”

Kuti further revealed that the iconic musician extended his philosophy of equality into his personal life. He said Fela forbade his children from calling him “dad” or “father,” insisting that all residents in his famed Kalakuta Republic were equals.

He also reflected on the disparity between how Fela was received at home versus abroad, noting that the Afrobeat pioneer enjoyed greater international recognition than he did within Nigeria during his lifetime.

Fela Anikulapo Kuti, known for his revolutionary music and fierce political activism, passed away on August 2, 1997, at the age of 58.