Oyinlola Awonuga Balogun (The New Diplomat’s Entertainment, Fashion and Sports Desk)
The late Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, is currently leading the 2021 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominees for possible induction.
The Nigerian musical icon was announced on February 10, 2021, alongside Mary J. Blige, Kate Bush, Devo, Foo Fighters, The Go-Go’s, Iron Maiden, Jay-Z, Chaka Khan, Carole King, LL Cool J, New York Dolls, Rage Against the Machine, Todd Rundgren, Tina Turner and Dionne Warwick.
According to the chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation, John Skyles, “This remarkable ballot reflects the diversity and depth of the artists and music the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrates.
“These Nominees have left an indelible impact on the sonic landscape of the world and influenced countless artistes that have followed them.
If Fela wins, he will make history as the first Nigerian artiste in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Fela is remembered as an icon who courageously sang and spoke up and out on matters affecting Nigeria, his home country. At the height of his popularity, he was referred to as one of Africa’s most “challenging and charismatic music performers.”
To be eligible, an individual artiste or band must have released its first commercial recording at least 25 years prior to the year of nomination.
Fans vote for up to five nominees daily from today till the 30th of April on the Rock Halls website while the winners of the 36th Annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony scheduled for Cleveland, Ohio, will be inducted in May 2021.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a museum and hall of fame located in Ohio, United States. The museum documents the history of rock music and the artistes, producers, engineers, and other notable figures who have influenced its development.
As at the time of filing this report, Fela has garnered over 64,000 votes to occupy the first spot followed closely by Tina Turner who has over 54,000 votes as Nigerians continue to canvass more votes for Fela social media.
