One of Africa's most acclaimed musicians, Nigerian Fela Anikulapo Kuti (1938-1997) wrote and performed political protest songs that won him a large following both at home and abroad, to the frequent chagrin of government authorities. His music--dubbed "Afro-Beat"--was an amalgam of American blues and jazz blended with African rhythms, while his pointed lyrics--in pidgin English and African--confronted government corruption, multi-national corporations, and police brutality. In a career that spanned four decades Fela (as he was popularly called) recorded over 50 albums and performed frequently in concert.

Fela was a flamboyant singer and musician and his concerts--many held at his Lagos nightclub, The Shrine--were lengthy and infectious. Fela belted out his driving songs, gyrating as he performed on saxophone or keyboards, directing his thunderous 27-member band, Egypt 80. John Darnton wrote in the New York Times that one of Fela's most popular songs, 'Upside Down,' described a traveler who...