Nigerian afrobeat singer and multi-instrumentalist Made Kuti has shared warm memories of growing up inside the iconic New Afrika Shrine. The grandson of the late Fela Kuti and son of music legend Femi Kuti explained how music shaped his early years.
Made Kuti recalled being only five years old when the current shrine was opened in 2000 by his father and aunt, Yeni Kuti. The event became unforgettable for him because he performed with a trumpet that day, making it one of his first stage appearances.
He also remembered watching his father perform up to four times a week, with shows often lasting six hours. Sometimes, he stayed up all night enjoying the music before heading straight to school in the morning. The shrine, he said, gave him a sense of freedom. As a child, he often jumped on tables, rode bicycles, and skated around. For him, all his early memories of the shrine remain joyful.
Beyond these childhood moments, Mádé spoke about how naturally his passion for music developed. Every instrument he wanted to learn was introduced to him by members of his father’s band. This allowed him to move easily from trumpet to saxophone, piano, guitar, and drums. He believes this exposure shaped both his confidence and versatility as an artist.
Discipline, he added, was another vital lesson. He watched his father practice tirelessly and always encourage him to do the same. Today, Mádé embraces his afrobeat roots while letting music guide itself without limits. He blends different styles freely, creating a sound that reflects both tradition and growth.
For Mádé, being a Kuti is a blessing. However, he also hopes that listeners will appreciate his music as art on its own merit.
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