By Felicia Odom 18.4.2026
But for Yeni Kuti, Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s music catalogue would have been long gone.
Femi Kuti the eldest son of the late Afrobeat creator disclosed that the family, based on the insistence of Yeni Kuti has held on tight to Fela’s music catalogue, said to be worth an estimated $500m.
“My elder sister was very against us selling it. She’s like the main caretaker”, Femi Kuti said during an interview on Channels TV.
“So it’s under the estate, Fela’s estate, which is controlled by the family. But we licensed the music, so we control it.”
According to Femi Kuti keeping control of the music catalogue will guarantee Fela’s family long-term benefits and preservation of his legacy. He added that the arrangement allows future generations to continue managing and honoring Fela’s work.
Fela’s music continues to enjoy streaming, and it is in high demand globally, especially hit tracks like “Zombie” and “Water No Get Enemy.”