Discography of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti (Oct. 15, 1938 - Aug. 2, 1997)
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has died of AIDS-related reasons and heart failure. According to the article by Chido Nwangwu in USAfrica ONLINE, he died on Saturday August 2, 1997 after several weeks of illness at the age of 58. "The immediate cause of death of Fela was heart failure but there were many complications arising from the Acquired Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome,'' Olikoye Ransome-Kuti, a medical doctor and Fela's older brother told a news conference in Lagos on Sunday August 3, 1997. Before his death, Fela refused treatment for his deterioratinghealth. He rejected both Western and traditional Nigerian medical services insisting it was on grounds of "principle."
Even in this most detailed Fela's discography in the world, Fela's disks and songs have not been tracked down completely. In particular, I expect more songs, singles, EPs, and LPs be discovered for his early days in the 60's. I thus welcome your addition and correction for the discography (Toshiya Endo).
The British magazine Black Music reports Kalakuta Republic attacked by Nigerian Army
1960
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Highlife Rakers
Aigana b/w Fela's Special (78 rpm UK, Melodisc 1532)
- This recording was tracked down by Ray Templeton in a short article on highlife music in UK ("Highlife Piccadilly - African Music on 45 rpm records in the UK, 1954-1981"). The recording numbers for 'Fela's Special' and 'Aigana' are 2966 and 2967, respectively, in the Melodisc file. This information was provided by Dr. John H Cowley (through courtesy of Ray Templeton). According to Duro Ikujenyo, Aigana was not written by Fela but by Victor Olaiya and it was quite a popular highlife tune in it's time. Recently the disk was finally tracked down by the (German) ethnomusicologist and Highlife researcher Dr. Markus Coester. The sound of those two tracks is smokey and premature, but very attractive (see the Soundway compilation CD set below). The songs were recorded in London in August 1959, and this Melodisc 78 rpm record came out in early 60 (Jan or Feb).
According to Uchenna Ikonne, activities of Fela Ransome-Kuti with his Highlife Rakers were reported in Nigeria by Daily Times, Lagos, dated 2 October 1959 (see the right clipping). This could be a kind of press-release or promotion-type article. The band name was erroneously described as "Highlife Ranker". This article shows that, although Fela already recorded 4 tracks for Melodisc label in August 1959, he clearly made several live performances at West African social gatherings in London at that time, which would then lead to formation of the Koola Lobitos.
1959
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Highlife Rakers
Highlife Rakers Calypso No.1 b/w Wa Ba Mi Jo Bosue (78 rpm UK, Melodisc unissued)
- These are additional Fela's titles recorded at the same session as Melodisc 1532, although they have never been issued. The recording numbers for 'Highlife Rakers Calypso No.1' and 'Wa Ba Mi Jo Bosue' are 2968 and 2969, respectively, in the Melodisc file. This information was provided by Dr. John H Cowley (through courtesy of Ray Templeton).
1959 (Issued on August 29, 2020)
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Highlife Rakers
Fela's First - The Complete 1959 Melodisc Session (10" UK, Cadillac SGC/MEL204)
[A] Aigana / Fela's Special
[B] Highlife Rakers Calypso No.1 / Wa Ba Mi Jo Bosue
- Note that the title "Aigana" was erroneously indicated as "Aicana" on the sleeve and disc. This limited-edition 10" vinyl disc contains 4 tracks from the Fela's first recording on the Melodisc label in August 1959. The two tracks on Side B have never been released before. Fela, who was studying at Trinity College of Music in London between 1958-1963, frequently made his live performances with a band called his High Life Rakers until July 29, 1960 (upper AD clipping below), and then changed his band name to 'new' Koola Lobitos in, at the latest, September 24, 1960 (lower AD clipping below). Therefore, Melodisc recording in August 1959 is chronologically consistent with the evidence for his live activities. These valuable AD images below appear through courtesy of Uchenna Ikonne.
1954-66 (Issued on March 16, 2015)
Various Artists
Highlife On The Move: Selected Nigerian & Ghanaian Recordings from London & Lagos 1954-66 (CD UK; Soundway SNDWCD 060)
[Disc 1] Highlife No. 5 (Ginger Folorunso Johnson & His Afro-Cuban Band)
/ Son of Africa (Kwamalah Quaye Sextetto Africana)
/ Abeni (Nigerian Union Rhythm Group)
/ Drink A Tea (Steve Rhodes & His London Hi-lifers)
/ Fela's Special (Fela Ransome-Kuti & The Highlife Rakers)
/ Oju Rere (Steve Rhodes & His London Hi-lifers)
/ Afro Mood (Chris Ajilo & His Cubanos)
/ Africana (Soundz Africana)
/ Obaa Amponsa Pandogo (The Black Star Band)
/ Ghana Special (Buddy Pipp's Highlifers)
/ Money Money (The Quavers)
/ Donaldo's Samba (Afro Rhythm Kings)
/ Marabi Dance (Afro Rhythm Kings)
/ Kitch (The Quavers)
/ Okokoko (Bobby Benson & His Orchestra)
/ Fancy Baby (John Santos Martins Accompanied By Zeal Onyia & His Band)
/ Biko Rapum Paulina (E. C. Arinze & The Empire Rhythm Orchestra)
/ Maggie (John Santos Martins Accompanied By Zeal Onyia & His Band)
/ Ghana, Forward Forever (Lord Ganda & Rupert Nurse's Calypso Band)
/ A Night in Port Harcourt (Adams' African Sky Rockets)
[Disc 2] Aigana (Fela Ransome-Kuti & The Highlife Rakers)
/Tortoise Mambo (Nigerian Union Rhythm Group)
/ Niger Mambo (Bobby Benson & His Combo)
/ Highlife Comes to Europe (Rans Boi's African Highlife Band)
/ Maria (Eddie Lamptey & The Peoples Highlife Band feat. Eddie Red Tettey)
/ Egbe Mi (West African Rhythm Brothers)
/ Iwa D'Arekere (West African Rhythm Brothers)
/ Omo Africa (West African Swing Stars)
/ Brown Skin Gal (Ginger Folorunso Johnson & His Afro-Cuban Band)
/ Brown Skin Gal (Awotwi Paynin & His Ghana Rockers)
/ Georgina (Buddy Pipp's Highlifers)
/ Eyo Mano Mi (T. Odueso's Akesan Highlifers)
/ Ojikolobo (Nigerian Union Rhythm Group)
/ Wa Sise (Willie Payne & The Starlite Tempos)
/ Nigerian Independence (Fela Ransome-Kuti & His Koola Lobitos)
/ Abrokyiri Gwo Yi (The Black Star Band)
/ Ekuona Rhythm (The Black Star Band)
/ Anyin Ga Na (Victor Ola-Iya & His 'Cool Cats')
-- By the extensive efforts by Markus Coester, this 2CD set (also released in the forms of vinyl and digital MP3) finally revealed the very first recordings of Fela Ransome-Kuti with the Highlife Rakers. Compare Fela's version of "Aigana" with its original track "Anyin Ga Na" by Victor Ola-Iya. The CD set also includes Koola Lobitos's rare track "Nigerian Independence" on the RK label.
1959-60? (released in 2017)
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Highlife Rakers
Aigana b/w Fela's Special (7" UK, Soundway/Melodisc 1532)
- The two tracks from the Fela's very first disc were released as a 7" vinyl disc format.
Koola Lobitos in 1961!
-- Picture taken from 'Unseen Vogue: Evening Looks and All That Jazz' (1961). Photographed by Brian Duffy and printed by The Art Group Limited, London. The note says: Hardy Amies, probably best known for dressing H. M. the Queen, designed the sleeveless top and embroidered it with tiny glass beads. John Cavanagh, another British designer of the era, created the tapered evening pants. The background music is supplied by 'Koola Lobitos' ('The Cool Cats'). This version was not published.
This picture was discovered by Michael E. Veal (Thanks, Michael!). You can see Fela on trumpet and J. K. Braimah on guitar in the London edition of Koola Lobitos.
1961
Fela Ransome-Kuti and Koola Lobitos
Bonfo b/w Fere (7" Nigeria, The RK label RK1)
-- Fela changed the name of his band from Highlife Rakers to Koola Lobitos in August, 1960, and "New" Koola Lobitos recorded the first three singles on the RK label in UK in1961. In the article 'Koola Lobitos... The beauty of melody' by Benson Idonije (Oct. 13, 1999, The Guardian) , Idonije wrote "The first tradition of the Koola Lobitos was formed in England in the late fifties, featuring foreign musicians, especially in the horn section level; and Nigerians at the rhythm section level featuring Wole Bucknor on piano. Some of the singles that emanated from the group in terms of studio recording were songs such as Bonfo; Fere; Lobitos Special among others." However, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti (Fela's brother), insisted that Fela did not release any songs while they were in England. Therefore likely, these tracks were recorded and manufuctured in London, but then Fela's mother arranged them to be shipped and marketed in Nigeria. Information given by Michael E. Veal, Olajide Bello, and Uchenna Ikonne.
-- Now Uchenna Ikonne added new speculation. In his autobiography African Rhythms, American jazz pianist Randy Weston vividly recalls meeting Fela during his first trip to Nigeria for the AMSAC (The American Society of African Culture) Festival held in Lagos in December 1961. If Weston's recollection is reliable, then it is possible that Fela came home from London for the Christmas holidays in 1961, and this visit might have coincided with the release of RK1-3.
1961
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Nigerian Independence (highlife jazz) / Ayawa (highlife jazz) (7" Nigeria, The RK label RK2)
-- Image and information, courtesy of Dub Store Records in Tokyo.
1961
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Koola Lobitos Special (highlife jazz) / Biko (highlife jazz) (7" Nigeria, The RK label RK3)
-- According to Uchenna Ikonne, "Biko" appears to be a partial cover of Dr. Victor Olaiya's "Moonlight Highlife."
1963
Fela Ransome-Kuti Quintet?
Fela Ransome-Kuti white Label (10", 78rpm, unreleased)
[A] To My Mother / Remi
[B] Kenta / unknown track
-- This is a record that Benson Idonije has made reference to in a few of his articles (for example, see National Mirror web site). According to Idonije, this was a a 4-track album of straight jazz that Fela brought with him when he came back from London in early 1963. The recording members were not known, but since Fela formed Fela Ransome-Kuti Quintet (#1) in London in 1962, it was most likely FRKQ. This recording was never commercially released, but it did get significant airplay on the Nigerian Broadcasting Service. Information given by Uchenna Ikonne.
1964?
Fela Ransome-Kuti Quintet
Great Kids (modern highlife) b/w Amaechi's Blues (modern jazz) (7" Nigeria, Phillips West Africa Records 382734 PF (PF 734))
-- The personnel of Fela Ransome-Kuti Quintet #2 (formed in Nigeria in mid-1963) is F. Ransome-Kuti, trumpet; Medonal Amaechi, guitar; E. Ngomalloh, bass; T. Adekoya, drums; Ayinde Folarin, conga: B. Idonjie, supervisor. Information and image, courtesy of Michael Kieffer.
1965?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Onifere No. 2 (highlife) / Oyejo (highlife) (7" Nigeria, The RK label RK4)
-- This information was provided by Michael Kieffer. Image, courtesy of Michael Kieffer.
1965?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Oloruka (highlife) b/w Awo (highlife) (7" Nigeria, The RK label RK5)
-- This 45 was discovered at a fleamarket in Amsterdam by Carlo C. Brander.
1965?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Ololufe b/w title unidentified (7" Nigeria, The RK label RK6)
-According to Uchenna Ikonne, the three singles (RK4-RK6) were released at the same time in late 1965 on Fela's RK label. While the text around the rim of the labels says "Made in England," it would seem that it's because they re-used the graphic template from the earlier RK releases. But the colors of the labels and the typeface with which the text is printed suggests that the records were probably manufactured at the Parlophone Records plant which opened in Nigeria in 1962. Information given by Uchenna Ikonne.
1965?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Voice of America Sessions
Ironu / Magbe Yenwa / Iro / Ojo (Part 1) / Ojo (Part 2) / Oyejo / Igba L'aiye
-- This new batch of Koola Lobitos recordings were recently discovered by Michael Veal, who obtained them from Martin Perna of Antibalas. They were recorded in Lagos for Voice of America radio broadcast. Surprisingly, four of these tracks are previously unknown. At the moment, it is not clear if these tracks or additional tunes from this session were released in a disk format. Anyway the obtained sound files are in amazingly good sound quality! The image of the container and Fela's great interview (VOA interview with Fela Ransome-Kuti Lagos, November 9,1967) were available from the African Music Treasures blog site before, which is deleted now.
1966
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Lagos Baby b/w Lobitos No. 2 (7" Nigeria, Parlophone NPJ370)
-- Year of the release was confirmed by Uchenna Ikonne.
1967
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Yese b/w Egbin (7" Nigeria, Parlophone NPJ420-- 7XNPS1399/1400)
-- Thanks to Duncan Brooker for the information.
1967
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Gendamarie b/w Ojo (7" Nigeria, Parlophone NPJ421-- 7XNPS1401/1402)
-- This previously unknown disk was discovered by Yoshiki Fukasawa in March 2024.
1968
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
She Don't Know What Love Is b/w Water Melon Man (7" Nigeria, Parlophone NPJ495--7XNPS1537/1538)
-- This intersting disk, where Fela plays Hancock's track, was discovered by Olajide Bello in Oshodi, Lagos.
1968
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Ololufe b/w Araba's Delight (7" Nigeria, Parlophone NPJ513--7XNPS1573/1574)
-- Thanks to Duncan Brooker for the information.
1968
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Wadele (or Wa Dele) b/w Laise (7" Nigeria, Parlophone NPJ514?--7XNPS1575/1576)
1968
Koola Lobitos featuring VC 7
Orise (highlife) b/w Eke (highlife) (7" Nigeria, Parlophone (EMI) NPJ533 --7XNPS1613/1614)
-- Both sides are arranged by Isaac Olashugba, but apprearance of Fela is not confirmed. 'Orise' is writen by Ojo Okeji, and vo. by Ezekiel Hart. 'Eke' is writen by Isaac Olashugba, and vo. by VC7. Information and image, courtesy of Michael Kieffer.
1968
Koola Lobitos featuring VC 7
V. C. 7 (soul) b/w I Know Your Feeling (soul) (7" Nigeria, Parlophone (EMI) NPJ534--7XNPS1615/1616)
-- Both sides are arranged by Isaac Olashugba, but apprearance of Fela is not confirmed. 'V. C. 7' is writen by Ojo Okeji and Isaac Olashugba, and vo. by Ezekiel Hart. 'I Know Your Feeling' is writen by Ojo Okeji, and vo. by Ezekiel Hart. Information and image, courtesy of Michael Kieffer.
Isaac Olashugba and Ezekiel Hart later formed a group called D. I. E. Combination, and released a 45 from Polydor in 1972 ('Ire b/w Amalinja' Nigeria Polydor 2227210 POE). Here is the jacket of the 45 (by courtesy of Miles Cleret).
1968?
Fela Ransome-Kuti plays with The Koola Lobitos
Vol. 1: Mi O Fe b/w Fine, Fine Baby (Parlophone 7" Nigeria, Parlophone (EMI) PNE101)
-- According to Olajide Bello, it is attributed to "Fela Ransome-Kuti and his Koola Loobitos at a night club date"
1968?
Fela Ransome-Kuti plays with The Koola Lobitos
Vol. 2: Die Die b/w Kusimilaya (7" Nigeria, Parlophone (EMI) PNE102)
-- The photo of the jacket appears here by courtesy of Olajide Bello, Miles Cleret and Andrew Symington. According to Uchenna Ikonne, "Die Die" and "Kusimilaya" could be "Labons Ke Le Le" and "Ekuro La Labalu Ewa", respectively, both of which were contained in the CD set of "Fela Anikulapo Kuti / Complete Works Of Fela Anikulapo Kuti" (Evergreen Musical Company, no suffix).
1968?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Vol. 3: Fire b/w Oni Machini (7" Nigeria, Parlophone (EMI) PNE103)
1967-68?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Yabonsa No. 2 b/w My Dog and Cat (?) (7" Nigeria, label and suffix, unknown)
- This track is contained in the CD set of "Fela Anikulapo Kuti / Complete Works Of Fela Anikulapo Kuti" (Evergreen Musical Company, no suffix) under the title of "Yabomisa". According to Olajide Bello, this is a Victor Olaiya song that Fela re-recorded. It was recorded a few times by Victor Olaiya and in a great version with the Late E.T. Mensah as well. Victor Olaiya said (to Olajide Bello) that Fela covered a few of his songs when he left his band the Cool Cats to go to England for his A-level examinations and then the Trinity College of Music. Two of these songs would be Yabomisa and Aigana.
1967-68?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Amen b/w ?? (7" Nigeria, label and suffix, unknown)
- Possible release of this track as a single was suggested by Uchenna Ikonne.
1968
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Fela Ransome-Kuti and the Koola Lobitos (LP Nigeria, EMI PNL 1002)
[A] Signature Tune / It's Highlife Time / Lagos Baby / Omuti / Ololufe / Araba's Delight
[B] Wa Dele / Lai Se / Mi O Mo / Obinrin Le / Omo Ejo
-- Fela's band went into a second phase of Koola Lobitos in May, 1965. The members included Tony Allen (drums), Ojo Okeji (bass), Yinka Roberts (guitar), Isaac Olasugba (sax), Tunde Williams (trumpet), Eddie Aroyewu (trumpet), Tex Becks and Uwaifo (tenor sax), Fred Lawal (guitar) et al. This is a compilation album of Koola Lobitos' singles and probably Fela Kuti's first LP. They play hybrid music of Highlife, Jazz and Soul with lots of trumpet by Fela (I thank T. A. Thomas for the tape copy). All the tracks except for 'Alaba's Delight' (by J. O. Araba) were written by Fela, and notes by Benso Idonije were shown on the jacket. Thanks to Miles Cleret for the jacket.
-- This LP was probably released in 1968, before Fela moved to Philips. Six out of these tracks have been re-issued on the CD, The '69 Los Angeles Sessions (CD France (2001), Barclay 549 461-2). The tracks contained in the CD are 'Highlife Time', 'Omuti Tide (Omti)', 'Ololufe Mi (Ololufe)', 'Wadele Wa Rohin (Wa Dele)', 'Laise Lairo (Lai Se)', 'Wayo (Mi O Mo) '. The reasons for the change of the titles are unclear, but 'Mi O Mo' is clearly different from 'Wayo' contained in 'The '69 Los Angeles Sessions', which they call the 2nd version! According to the note for the CD, 'Omuti Tide', 'Ololufe Mi' and 'Laise Lairo' are recorded in 1964, 'Wadele Wa Rohin' in 1965, and 'Highlife Time' and 'Wayo' in 1968.
1968?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Title Unknown (LP Nigeria, EMI ??)
[A] Ololufe / Ayawa Ni / Onidodo / Yese / Araba's Delight
[B] Abiara / Onijibiti / Madele / Orun / Ojo
-- This album was referred to in the article 'Koola Lobitos... The beauty of melody' by Benson Idonije (The Guardian (Lagos), Wednesday, 13, October 1999). However, it was recently pointed out that this album may not have existed. Indeed, some of these tracks are likely from the above first album, and some others are singles from that period.
1968?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Onidodo b/w Alagbara (7" Nigeria, Phillips West Africa Records PF383 620)
-- According to Uchenna Ikonne, while "Onidodo Onimoinmoin" is a folk song that had been performed by a number of performers, this could be regarded as another Olaiya tribute because it was a popular item in the Cool Cats repertoire in the 1950s. Note that Fela moved from EMI (Parlophone) to Philllips in December 1968.
1968?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Abiara b/w Ajo (7" Nigeria, Phillips West Africa Records PF383 622)
1968-1969
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Ironu b/w No Moless (7" Nigeria, Phillips West Africa Records PF383 708)
1969
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Afro Beat on Stage: Recorded Live at the Afro Spot (10" LP Nigeria, Phillips/Polydor PLP001)
[A] Everyday I Got My Blues / Moti Gborokan / Waka Waka
[B] Ako / Ororuka / Lai Se
-- Live recordings at Afro Spot. The photos of the label and the jacket appears here by courtesy of Olajide Bello and Miles Cleret, respectively. Since the Afro Spot was opened in April 1969, this album should have been recorded in 1969, and released in 1969 after he moved from EMI to Phillips. All this consideration came from Uchenna Ikonne.
1969?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Ikilo b/w Eko (afro beat) (7" Nigeria, Phillips West Africa Records PF383 800)
1969?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Waka Waka (afro beat) b/w Se E Tunde (afro beat) (7" Nigeria, Phillips West Africa Records PF383 802)
-- Image, courtesy of Michael Kieffer
1969?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
My Baby Don Love Me b/w Home Cooking (7" Nigeria, Phillips WA425004)
1963-1969 (Issued on Sept. 16, 2005)
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Koola Lobitos
Highlife-Jazz and Afro-Soul (1963-1969) (CD Japan; P-Vine PCD-18511/3)
[Disc 1] Bonfo / Fere / Onifere No. 2 / Oyejo / Oloruka / Awo / Great Kids / Amaechi's Blues / Yese / Egbin / Orise / Eke / V.C. 7 / I know your Feeling
[Disc 2] Signature tune / Its Highlife Time / Lagos Baby / Omuti / Ololufe / Araba's delight / Wadele / Lai se / Mi O mo / Obinrin Le / Omo Ejo
[Disc 3] Everyday I got my Blues / Moti Gborokan / Waka waka / Ako / Ororuka / Lai Se / Onidodo / Alagbara / Ajo / Abiara / Se E Tunde / Waka Waka / My Baby Don Love Me / Home Cooking
-- A three-CD set of extemely rare recordings by Koola Lobitos in Nigeria in the 1960s. This project has been carried out by Michael E. Veal, Yoshiki Fukazawa, and Toshiya Endo in cooperation with Michael Kieffer, Miles Cleret, T. Ajayi Thomas, Carlo C. Brander, Naotaka Doi, Ray Templeton, John H. Cowley, Johan Beadle, and Olajide Bello.
1970
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Nigeria 70
Jeun K'oku (Chop & Quench) Part I b/w Jeun K'oku (Chop & Quench) Part II (7" Nigeria, HMV HNS1016; Ghana, HMV HNS1016; France (1970-1971), Pathe Marconi 2C006-80776)
-- Image, courtesy of Miles Cleret. This is the first single released in December 1970 from Nigeria EMI with his new contract with EMI again. Note that he moved from EMI to Phillips in December 1968 and then came back to EMI again in December 1970. Fela changed the name of his band from Nigeria 70 to Africa 70 on January 1st, 1971.
1970
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Nigeria 70
Viva Nigeria b/w Witchcraft (7" Nigeria, The Duke Records DUK -001)
-- Prod. by Duke Lumumba. The names of the band on the records were originally Nigria 70, but later they were changed to Africa 70 (see the 1st issue with the name of Nigeria 70 and the 2nd one with the name of Africa 70 shown below). The recording session of this disk and others was held in February 1970, but a series of disks from this session were released as singles after Fela came back to Nigeria in March 1970. It is likely that the first issue with a credit of Nigeria 70 were released in 1970, and the one with a credit of Africa 70 was released in 1971 after his new contract with EMI. Indeed, there are two versions of the disks with the credit of Nigeria 70 (the first issue). The one with the credit of "FELA AND NIGERIA '70" and the other with "FELA NIGERIA '70" (no "and" between Fela and Nigeria '70) and the description of "Fela Ransome-Kuti appears by courtesy of Phillips (W. A.) Records Ltd.", indicating that Fela was still bound to Phillips by contract at that time (this information came from Paul Cleugh). These tracks were issued as a compiled album from EMI ("Fela, Fela, Fela") in 1971 and more later, included in the compilation CD, 'The '69 Los Angeles Sessions (CD UK (1993), Stern's STCD3005)'. The photos of the labels are shown here by courtesy of Miles Cleret.
-- Now this song 'Viva Nigeria' revealed interesting aspects of Fela's politital stance at that time. Although Fela's stance against police, army, establishment, and neo-colonialism was always clear-cut, that on the domestic or inter-tribal conflict remained somehow vague. For example, he could not reveal his attitude on the situation that his brother, Beko, and his long-time enemy, Obasanjo were imprisoned by Abacha. Another example is this song. He wrote this song as a pro-government song during the Biafran war, although he later expressed his sympathy for Biafra.
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Lover b/w Wayo (7" Nigeria, The Duke Records DUK -002)
-- Prod. by Duke Lumumba. These tracks were later included in the compilation CD, 'The '69 Los Angeles Sessions (CD UK (1993), Stern's STCD3005)'. The photo of the label is shown here by courtesy of Miles Cleret.
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Ako b/w Ladies Frustration (7" Nigeria, The Duke Records DUK -005)
-- Prod. by Duke Lumumba. Information for these Duke singles was proveided by Miles Cleret. These tracks were later included in the compilation CD, 'The '69 Los Angeles Sessions (CD UK (1993), Stern's STCD3005)'.
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Africa 70
Fela Fela Fela (LP Nigeria, EMI (HMV) HNLX5033)
[A] My Lady's Frustration / Viva Nigeria / Obe (Stew) / Ako / Witchcraft
[B] Wayo / Lover / Funky Horn / Eko / This Is Sad
-- This is the original LA Session album released in Nigeria! Lonnie Bolden plays tenor sax, jacket design by Ebele and Chinye. A Duke Lumumba recording in February 1970 in LA, but was released in 1971 after Fela came back to Nigeria in March 1970.
1993
Fela Ransome-Kuti and Nigeria 70
The '69 Los Angeles Sessions (CD UK (1993), Stern's STCD3005)
My Lady Frustration / Viva Nigeria / Obe / Ako / Witchcraft / Wayo / Lover / Funky Horn / Eko / This Is Sad
-- UK re-issue of the EMI album in the format of CD from Stern's in 1993. The title is misleading since the recording session was held in February 1970.
1971BR>
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Fela's London Scene (LP Nigeria, EMI HNLX5200; LP USA (1983), Editions Makossa M2399)
[A] J'ehin-J'ehin / Egbe Mi O
[B] Who're You / Buy Africa / Fight to Finish
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Blackman's cry b/w Beautiful Dancer (7" Nigeria, HMV HNP526; 7" France, Pathe Marconi 2C006-80777)
-- Image, courtesy of Miles Cleret and Andrew Symington.
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Africa 70
Na Fight-O! (Part 1) b/w Na Fight-O! (Part 2) (7" Nigeria, HMV HNS1049)
-- Image, courtesy of Miles Cleret.
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Africa 70
Who're You? (Part 1) b/w Who're You? (Part 2) (7" Nigeria, EMI/HMV HNS1058; Ghana, EMI/HMV HNS1058)
- Image is shown here by courtesy of Naotaka Doi.
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Africa 70
Jeun K'oku (Chop & Quench) Instrumental Part 1 b/w Jeun K'oku (Chop & Quench) Instrumental Part 2 (7" Nigeria, EMI/HMV HNS1075)
1971?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Africa 70
Don't Gag Me (Part 1) b/w Don't Gag Me? (Part 2) (7" Nigeria, Jon200; Ghana, Jon200)
-- Image, courtesy of Miles Cleret.
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Why Black Man Dey Suffer (LP Nigeria, African Songs AS0001; Initially recorded for EMI, but EMI refused to release it)
[A] Why Black Man Dey Suffer
[B] Ikoyi Mentality Versus Mushin Mentality
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Africa 70
The Best of Fela (LP Nigeria, EMI (HMV) HNLX5043)
[A] Beautiful Dancer / Jeun Ko Ku (Chop and Quench) (Part1& Part 2) / Black Man's Cry.
[B] Na Fight O (Part1& Part 2) / Who're You?
-- Information provided by Miles Cleret.
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Na Poi (LP Nigeria, EMI HMV HNLX 5070)
[A] Na Poi (part 1)
[B] Na Poi (part 2) / You No Go Die Unless You Wan Die
1971?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Alujon-Jon-Ki-Jon (Part 1) b/w Alujon-Jon-Ki-Jon (Part 2) (7" Ghana, HMV HNS1119)
1971?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Beggar's Song (Orin Alagbe) (Part 1) b/w Beggar's Song (Orin Alagbe) (Part 2) (7" Nigeria, HMV HNS1237)
-- Image, courtesy of Miles Cleret.
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Shenshema (Part 1) b/w Shenshema (Part 2) (7" Nigeria, HMV HNS1299)
-- This track was later included in the CD 'Roforofo Fight / CD Singles' (CD France (2001), Barclay 549 380-2).
1971?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Monday Morning (Part 1) b/w Monday Morning (Part 2) (7" Nigeria, HMV HNS1322)
-- Image, courtesy of Miles Cleret. This single version is different from the album (He Miss Road) version, and has been re-issued under the name of Fela Ransome Kuti and the Africa 70 from the KFR label (2011; 7" US, Knitting Factory Records KFR1114).
1971?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Nigeria 70
Fogo-Fogo (Part 1) b/w Fogo-Fogo (Part 2) (7" Nigeria, HMV HNS1472)
-- This track was later included in the CD 'Afro Baby / The Evolution of the Afro-Sound in Nigeria 1970-1979' (CD UK (2004), Sound Way SNDWCD002).
1971?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Ariya (Part 1) b/w Ariya (Part 2) (7" Nigeria, HMV HNS1531)
-- This track was later included in the CD 'Roforofo Fight / CD Singles' (CD France (2001), Barclay 549 380-2).
-- Image, courtesy of Miles Cleret.
1971?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
The Best of Fela Volume 2: Fela's Budget Special (LP Nigeria, EMI HNLX 5081)
[A] Monday Morning In Lagos / Shenshema / Don't Gag Me
[B] Beggar's Song / Alu Jon-Jon-Ki-Jon / Chop & Quench (Instrumental)
-- Low-priced compilation album released only in Nigeria. The photo of the jacket appears by courtesy of Michael E. Veal.
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Open and Close (LP Nigeria, EMI HNLX5090; LP France (1975), Pathe Marconi 062-81957)
[A] Open and Close / Swegbe and Pako
[B] Gbagada Gbagada Gbogodo Gbogodo
--The right picture is taken from the inner side of the original fold-over jacket. The president of Ghana, Col. I. K. Acheampong is singing an African song with Fela during the State performance in Ghana.
1971
Fela Ransome-Kuti The Africa 70 (with Ginger Baker)
Live! (LP UK, Regal Zonophone SLRZ1023; LP France (1975) Pathe Marconi 062-04933; LP USA (197?), Signpost USA, SP8401; LP USA (1983), Makossa M2399)
[A] Let's Start / Black Man's Cry
[B] Ye Ye De Smell / Egbe Mi O (Carry Me, I Want to Die)
1971?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Nigeria 70
Chop and Quebch b/w Egbe Mi O (7" UK, Regal Zonophone RZ3052)
1972
Ginger Baker (with Fela Ransome-Kuti (vo, kbd))
Stratavarious (LP UK, Polydor 2383 133; LP USA, Atco SD7013)
[A] Ariwo / Tiwa
[B] Something Nice / Juju / Blood Brothers 69 / Coda
1971-1975?
Fela Ransome-Kuti and His Nigeria 70
Let's Start b/w Eg Be Mi O (7" France, Pathe Marconi 2C006-80995)
1972
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Egbe Mi O b/w Chop & Quench (7" Ghana, Stateside GSS0029)
-- Also released in UK as a single "Egbe Mi O b/w Chop & Quench" (7" UK, Regal Zonophone RZ 3052) in 1972.
1972
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Shakara (LP Nigeria, EMI 008N; LP USA (1974), Editions Makossa EM2305; LP France (1974) Pathe Marconi 062 82718; LP UK (1975), Creole CRLP501)
[A] Shakara Oloje
[B] Lady
-- An edited version of 'Shakara' was later released in two parts as a single (7" UK, Creole CR 105) in UK in 1975.
1972
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Music of Fela - Roforofo Fight (LP Nigeria, Jofabro Nigeria JILP001; LP USA (1975), Editions Makossa EM2307 and EM2309; LP France (1976), Pathe Marconi 062-82132/3)
[A] Roforofo Fight
[B] Trouble Sleep Yanga Wake Am
[C] Question Jam Answer
[D] Go Slow
-- The photo of the jacket appears by courtesy of Deen Ipaye.
1973
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Afrodisiac (LP Nigeria, EMI 062; LP UK (1972), Regal Zonophone/EMI SLRZ1034; LP France (1975), Pathe Marconi 062 81290)
[A] Alu Jon Jonki Jon / Chop and Quench
[B] Eko Ile / Je'n Wi Temi
1973
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Gentleman (LP Nigeria, EMI NEMI 0009; LP France (1975), Pathe Marconi 2C 062 81960; LP UK (1975), Creole CRLP502; LP USA (1983), Makossa M2398)
[A] Gentleman
[B] Fefe Naa Efe / Igbe (Na Shit)
1974
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Going In and Coming Out (Part 1) b/w Going In and Coming Out (Part 2) (7" Nigeria, EMI(s) 062N)
-- Image, courtesy of Miles Cleret. Although the release year is not indicated on the disk, it has the orange EMI label that was introduced in 1973 when the Gramophone Company changed its name to EMI Records; prior to that, the records had the HMV label (Uchenna Ikonne).
1974
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Alagbon Close (LP Nigeria, Jofabro Nigeria JILP1002; LP USA (1975), Editions Makossa EM2313; LP France (1976), Pathe Marconi 062-82135)
[A] Alagbon Close
[B] I No Get Eye for Back
1975
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
He Miss Road (LP Nigeria, EMI 006N; LP France (1975), Pathe Marconi 052 81958; LP UK (1984), re-released on Sterns 3008)
[A] He Miss Road / Monday Morning in Lagos
[B] He No Possible
-- Prod. by Ginger Baker. The name of the track 'He No Possible' was changed to 'It's No Possible' in the Stern's-version LP. The photo of the jacket appears by courtesy of Michael E. Veal.
1975
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Expensive Shit (LP Nigeria, Soundwork Shop SWS1001; LP USA (1975), Editions Makossa EM2315)
[A] Expensive Shit
[B] Water No Get Enemy
1975
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Noise for Vendor Mouth (LP Nigeria, Afrobeat ABRO11)
[A] Noise for Vendor Mouth
[B] Mattress
1975
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Everything Scatter (LP Nigeria, Coconut PMLP1000; LP UK (1977), Creole CRLP509; LP France (1976), Phillips 9286-434)
[A] Everything Scatter
[B] Who No Know Go Know
1975
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Confusion (LP Nigeria, EMI NEMI0004; LP France (1975), Pathe Marconi 062-81959)
[A] Confusion (Instrumental)
[B] Confusion (Vocal)
1975
Tony Allen and The Africa 70 (with Fela Ransome-Kuti (ts, p, arr, prod))
Jealousy (LP Nigeria, Sound Workshop 1004)
[A] Jealousy
[B] Hustler
1975/76
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
Kalakuta Show (LP Nigeria, EMI ??; LP Nigeria, Kalakuta KR 01; LP USA (1976), Editions Makossa M2320; LP UK (1976), Creole CRLP507; LP France (1976), Pathe Marconi 062-82134)
[A] Kalakuta Show
[B] Don't Meke Garnan Garnan
-- Although there was a rumour that this album was originally released on EMI in Nigeria. However, this was not the case, and Chris May kindly confirmed this fact. On the label of this album, 'Kalakuta Show' was indicated as 'Kalakuta', and 'Don't Meke Garnan Garnan' as 'Te Je JE' as shown below. This was pointed out by Greg Villanova and Bosajide Bello. Thanks!
1976
Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa 70
No Bread (LP Nigeria, Soundwork Shop SWS1003; LP USA (1982), Editions Makossa EM2382 (Unnecessary Begging))
[A] No Bread
[B] Unnecessary Begging
1976
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Ikoyi Blindness (LP Nigeria, Africa Music AMILP001)
[A] Ikoyi Blindness
[B] Gba Mi Leti Ki N'dolowo
1976
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Yellow Fever (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2004)
[A] Yellow Fever
[B] Napoi 75
1976
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Upside Down (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2005; LP USA (?), London Records SP44290; LP USA (1985), Celluloid CELL 6123; CD USA (1990), CELD6123)
[A] Upside Down
[B] Go Slow
-- "Go Slow" is a different song than the one on "Roforofo Fight".
1976
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Before I Jump like Monkey Give Me Banana (LP Nigeria, Coconut PMLP1001)
[A] Monkey Banana
[B] Sense Wiseness
1976
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Again, Excuse O (LP Nigeria, Coconut PMLP1002)
[A] Excuse-O
[B] Mr Grammatology-Lisationalism Is the Boss
1976
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Zombie (LP Nigeria, Coconut PMLP1003; LP UK (1977), Creole CRLP511)
[A]Zombie
[B] Mr Follow Follow
1977
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Zombie
(LP USA; Mercury SRM-1-3709)
[A] Zombie
[B] Monkey Banana / Everything Scatter
1977
Fela Ransome-Kuti
Fela Ransome-Kuti Vol. 1 & 2
(LP France; EMI/Pathe Marconi 2C 15983/4)
[A] Shakara (Oloje) / Chop & Quench
[B] Let's Start / Black Man's Cry
[C] Lady / Je'nwi Temi (Don't Gag Me)
[D] Alu Jo Jonki Jon / Egbe Mi O (Carry Me I Want to Die)
-- The track labeled "Black Man's Cry" is actually "Eko Ile" from "Afrodisiac" (EMI Nigeria 062)
1976
The Hedzoleh Soundz
The Original Hedzoleh Soundz (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS 2014)
[A] Alhaji Tanko / Muslim Prayers / We Are Not Going / Ni Zar / Tempele
[B] Rekpete / Edina Banya / Volta Suit / Makola Market
-- The cover has the caption 'Featuring Black President Fela Anikulapo Kuti, also featuring John Collins'.
Hedzoleh recorded at least three times: twice in Lagos around 1973, once on their own (Nigeria EMI) and once with Hugh Masekela (Blue Thumb). The EMI recordings will be re-issued soon by Miles Cleret's Soundway label.
Then in 1976, Faisal Helwani (he is stting at the bottom of the Hedzoleh cover, playing a flute) set up a band called New Hedzoleh after the original one broke up in the States. The new line-up was probably Kris Bediako (g), Joe Miller (g) and others. So the Hedzoleh album with Lemi's artwork should be edited from those recordings. However, this album has been a kind of lost album for a long time and Fela's participation, although likely, was not yet confirmed.
I thank Demian, Lemi Ghariokwu, Miles Cleret, and John Collins for the information.
1976
The Basa-Basa Soundz
The Basa-Basa Soundz (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS 2016)
[A] Dr Solotsu / Nye Tao Ame / Tinapa Minana / Aziza / Woman
[B] Lakuma / Yayaa / Nature / Amal
-- Fela plays sax on 'Dr Solotsu'. The cover has the caption 'Featuring Black President Fela Anikulapo Kuti'. Information provided by Miles Cleret.
1977
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
J.J.D. (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2023)
[A] J.J.D.(Instrumental)
[B] J.J.D. (Vocal)
1977
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Sorrow, Tears and Blood (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2025; recorded but unreleased)
[A] Sorrow, Tears, and Blood
[B] Colonial Mentality
-- According to Decca, 60,000 copies of 'STB' were waxed in the factory in London in 1977, but were not released because the company had been advised (by the Government) after the incident of February 18, 1977, that it was highly seditious and an offence. However, according to Fela, he later confirmed by writing to the Inspector General of Police that there was actually no ban on 'STB'. (The Punch, Sept. 2, 1978). The original jacket by Ghariokwu Lemi (zgmanagement@lycos.com) appears by courtesy of his productions.
1977
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Opposite People (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2026)
[A] Opposite People
[B] Equalisation of Trouser and Pant
1977
Tunde Williams plays with The Africa 70 (with Fela Anikulapo-Kuti (ts, p, prod))
Mr. Big Mouth (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2030)
[A] Mr. Big Mouth
[B] The Beginning
-- This album was re-issued on a 2 on 1 format of CD (Honest Jons Records HJRCD 101/2) in 2004.
1977
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Stalemate (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2033)
[A] Stalemate
[B] African Message (Don't Worry About My Mouth-O)
-- Most likely, released after the Decca House incident (July - September, 1978) in 1979.
1977
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Fear Not for Man (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2035)
[A] Fear Not for Man
[B] Palm-Wine Sound
1977
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Why Black Man Dey Suffer (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2036; recorded but unreleased. The track "Why Black Man Dey Suffer" is released in 1986 on Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2251)
[A] Why Black Man Dey Suffer
[B] Male
1977
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Observation No Crime (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2037; recorded but unreleased.
[A] Observation No Crime
[B] Lady
-- 'Observation No Crime' was later included in the CD 'Zombie' (CD France (2001), Barclay 549 383-2). The title was changed to 'Observation Is No Crime'. Although Mabinuori Kayode Idowu describes in the note of the CD that this track was recorded live at the November 1978 Berlin Jazz Festival, the track was actually recorded in the Decca studio in 1977!
1977
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
I Go Shout Plenty (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2038; recorded but unreleased. The track "I Go Shout Plenty" is released in 1986 on Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2251, and "Frustration of My Lady" in 1983 on Lagos International LIR6)
[A] I Go Shout Plenty
[B] Frustration of My Lady
1977
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
No Agreement (LP Nigeria, Decca Afrodisia DWAPS2039; LP France (1977), Barclay 829 682-1; LP USA (1985), Celluloid CELL 6122)
[A] No Agreement
[B] Dog Eat Dog
-- Most likely, released after the Decca House incident (July - September, 1978) in 1979.
1977
Tony Allen and The Africa 70 (with Fela Anikulapo-Kuti (ts, p, co-prod))
Progress (LP Nigeria, Coconut PMLP1004)
[A] Progress
[B] Afro Disco Beat
1977
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Sorrow, Tears and Blood (LP Nigeria, Kalakuta KK001-A)
[A] Sorrow, Tears, and Blood
[B] Colonial Mentality
1977
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Shuffering and Shmiling (LP Nigeria, Coconut PMLP1005; LP USA (1985), Celluloid CELL 6117 )
[A] Shuffering and Shmiling (Instrumental)
[B] Shuffering and Shmiling (Vocal)
1978
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Shuffering and Shmiling (LP France, Barclay 829 710-1)
[A] Shuffering and Shmiling
[B] Perambulator
--'Perambulator' was later released in Nigeria in 1983.
1978
The tracks recorded live at the November 1978 Berlin Jazz Festival are contained in the following CDs.
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70 -- 'Mistake' (CD 'Zombie' (CD France (2001), Barclay 549 383-2)
Ginger Baker and Tonny Allen 'Drum Solo' -- CD 'Fela Ransome-Kuti and The Africa '70 with Ginger Baker - Live!' (CD France (2001), Barclay 549 380-2)
1979
Tony Allen and The Africa 70 (with Fela Anikulapo-Kuti (co-prod))
No Accommodation for Lagos (LP Nigeria, Phonogram POLP035)
[A] No Accommodation for Lagos
[B] African Message
1979
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Unknown Soldier (LP Nigeria, Phonodisk Skylark SKLP003A; LP USA (1982), Uno Melodic UM 0002 )
[A] Unknown Soldier (Instrumental)
[B] Unknown Soldier (Vocal)
1979
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and Africa 70
V.I.P.-Vagabons in Power (LP Nigeria, Jofabro/Kalakuta KILP001)
[A] V.I.P. (Instrumental)
[B] V.I.P. (Vocal)
1979
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
I.T.T.-International Thief Thief (LP Nigeria, Kalakuta no suffix)
[A] I.T.T. (Instrumental)
[B] I.T.T. (Vocal)
1979
Various Artists
The Black Way (LP France; L'Escargot ESC 399-400)
[A] Tell Me How Long (Professor Longhair) / Backwater Blues (Big Joe Williams) / Hobo Blues (John Lee Hooker) / I Will Get Out of These Blues Alive (John Lee Hooker) / Benny Is His Name (Eddie Jefferson-Burke)
[B] Run Aggression (Ras Michael) / Break Stone (Albert Minott) / Manito (Port Antonio) / This Train (Culture) / Natty Dread Taking Over (Culture)
[C] Groupe Yoruba / Groupe Haoussa / Balade Dans Les Rues De Lagos (Kokoro) / Talking Drum (Peter King) / Just Because You Are A Woman (Frances Kuboye) / Pansa (Fela Anikulapo Kuti)
[D] Berimbau (Valdemar Rodrigues) / Falsa Alegria (Batatinha) / Berimbau (Valdemar Rodrigues) / Hora Da Razao (Batatinha) / Cancao Do Sal (Milton Nascimento) / Lua Girou (Milton Nascimento) / Maracatu
-- Fela appeared in 'Pansa' (C6), which is likely a live version and is different from the original studio version ('Pansa Pansa' in the 'UG' album).
1980
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Authority Stealing (LP Nigeria, Kalakuta no suffix)
[A] Authority Stealing (Instrumental)
[B] Authority Stealing (Vocal)
--Containing an extra ordinary issue of YAP News (July 1980) featuring the 2.8 billion naira oil scandal in Nigeria.
1980
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70 with Roy Ayers
Music of Many Colors (LP Nigeria, Phonodisk PHD003; LP USA (1986), Celluloid CELL 6125 )
[A] Africa - Center of the World
[B] Blacks Got To Be Free
1981
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Coffin for Head of State (LP Nigeria, Kalakuta KALP003)
[A] Coffin for Head of State (Instrumental)
[B] Coffin for Head of State (Vocal)
1981
Black-President
(LP UK, Arista SPART 1167)
[A] Sorrow Tears and Blood / Colonial Mentality
[B] I.T.T. (International Thief Thief)
1981
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Original Sufferhead (LP Nigeria, Lagos International 2; LP UK (1981), Arista SPART1177)
[A] Original Sufferhead
[B] Power Show
1981
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Sorrow Tears and Blood b/w Colonial Mentality (7" USA, Arista 408)
-- Edited versions of the original recordings
1983
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Perambulator (LP Nigeria, Lagos International LIR6)
[A] Perambulator
[B] Frustration
1983
Fela Kuti
Lady (part 1) b/w Lady (part 2) (7" UK?, EMI EMIDJ5441)
-- A shortened and edited version of the original recording, and likely a promo-only stuff
1983
Fela Kuti
Lady b/w Unknown Soldier
(12" 45 UK, EM 12 EMI 5441)
--"Lady" is shortened and edited. "Unknown Soldier" includes only the vocal portion of the original release.
1984
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Live in Amsterdam - Music Is the Weapon (LP UK, EMI FELA2401293; LP Nigeria (1986), Polygram PH2000 and PH2002)
[A] Movement of the People Political Statement Number I (Part 1)
[B] Movement of the People Political Statement Number I (Part 2)
[C] Gimme Shit I Give You Shit
[D] Custom Check Point
1984
Fela Anikulapo Kuti
M. O. P. (Movement of people) (12" France, EMI/Pathee Marconi SP1249)
[A] M. O. P. (Movement of people) (Version Club)
[B] M. O. P. (Movement of people) (Version Radio)
-- Limited edition for Fela's European tour in 1984. Produced by Fela.
1984
Fela Anikulapo Kuti
M. O. P. (12" 45, EMI PSLP 379)
[A] M. O. P (Short Version - Stereo) / M. O. P (Long Version - Stereo)
[B] M. O. P (Short Version - Mono) / M. O. P (Long Version - Mono)
-- Promotional copy only disk
1985
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Army Arrangement (LP USA, Celluloid CELL6115)
[A] Army Arrangement (Instrumental)
[B] Army Arrangement (Vocal)
-- Original version and prod. by Fela.
1985
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Army Arrangement (CD France (2001), Barclay 549 381-2)
[A] Army Arrangement
[B] Government Chicken Boy
-- 'Government Chicken Boy' is the previously unreleased, original version.
1985
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Army Arrangement (LP UK, Yaba - Celluloid CEL6109; LP USA, Celluloid CELL 6109 )
[A] Army Arrangement
[B] Cross Exmination / Government Chicken Boy
-- Remixed version and prod. by Fela and Bill Laswell.
1985
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Army Arrangement (LP Nigeria, Kalakuta K007)
[A] Army Arrangement (Instrumental)
[B] Army Arrangement (Vocal) (but actually, Cross Examination)
1986
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti
Mr. Follow Follow
(LP USA, Celluloid CELL 6124)
[A] Mr. Follow Follow
[B] Who No Know Go Know
-- Reissue of older material.
1986
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Teacher Don't Teach Me Nonsense (LP Nigeria, Polygram PH2004)
[A] Teacher Don't Teach Me Nonsense (Instrumental)
[B] Teacher Don't Teach Me Nonsense (Vocal)
1986
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Teacher Don't Teach Me Nonsense (LP France, Barclay 831325-1/ 831-362-1, 831-362-2)
[A] Teacher Don't Teach Me Nonsense (Instrumental)
[B] Teacher Don't Teach Me Nonsense (Vocal)
[C] Look And Laugh (Instrumental)
[D] Look And Laugh (Vocal)
1986
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Look And Laugh (7" France, Barclay 6837 900 / 45T.PROMO)
Look And Laugh (Vocal) b/w Look And Laugh (Instrumental)
1986
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
I Go Shout Plenty (LP Nigeria, Decca-Afrodisia DWAPS2251)
[A] I Go Shout Plenty
[B] Why Black Man Dey Suffer
-- These tracks were taken from 1977 recordings, without Fela's permission.
1986
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Africa 70
Fela In Concert (Video View Video NTSC1305)
Movement of The People Political Statement Number 1 / Army Arrangement / Power Show (Instrumental)
--Copyright: Captain Video/Lagoon Production 1981
1987
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti & The Africa '70
Jenwi Temi (Don't Gag Me)
(LP Nigeria, Philips PH 2005)
[A] Lady / Jenwi Temi
[B] Alu Jo Jonki Jon / Egbe Mi O
--- Reissue of old recordings.
1988
Oluko Imo with Fela Anikulapo-Kuti (ts, prod)
Oduduwa (LP Nigeria, Arigidi 01-7)
[A] Oduduwa
[B] Were Oju Le
-- "Were Oju Le" was recorded with Fela and some musicians from his band, probably Egypt 80. Although the credit indicates that male singers are "Africa 70" and therefore "Were Oju Le" could have been just sung over an old unreleased Africa 70 instrumental track, the track sounds more like Egypt 80 than Africa 70. Indeed, the musicians look more like Egypt 80, too.
1988
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Teacher Don't Teach Me Nonsense (Video Hendring Video HEN2090)
??
1988
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Fela Live (Video Hendring Video HEN2091)
??
1989
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Beasts of No Nation (LP Nigeria, Kalakuta K008)
[A] Beasts of No Nation (Instrumental)
[B] Beasts of No Nation (Vocal)
1989
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Beasts of No Nation ( LP UK Eurobound/Yaba JU-UDR360153; CD USA, Shanachie 43070 )
[A] Beasts of No Nation
[B] Just Like That
1989
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Overtake Don Overtake Overtake (LP Nigeria, Kalakuta K009; CD USA, Shanachie 43078 )
[A] Overtake Don Overtake Overtake (Instrumental)
[B] Overtake Don Overtake Overtake (Vocal)
1990
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Confusion Break Bones (LP Nigeria, Kalakuta K010)
[A] Confusion Break Bones (Instrumental)
[B] Confusion Break Bones (Vocal)
1990
Michael Rose
Proud (CD UK, RCA PD74809; CD Japan, RCA BVCP30)
Mother & Child Reunion / Hot Pop / Buzz You / Promised Land / Richie The Rich / Eyes / Demonstration / Invasion / Just Do It / Proud / Don's Party / Africa Your Safe / Invasion
-- According to Carter van Pelt, Michael was working with a producer, Lister Hewan-Lowe, at the time (86) who knew Fela and they brought him in for a sax solo on 'Just Do It'.
1990
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Just Like That (LP Nigeria, Kalakuta K011)
[A] Just Like That
[B] Movement of The People Political Statement Number 1
1991
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti
Original Sufferhead
(CD USA, Shanachie 44010)
Original Sufferhead / Sorrow Tears and Blood / Colonial Mentality / ITT
---Reissue of older material.
1991
Various Artists Hosted by Peter Gabriel & Bobby McFerrin
Rhythyms Of The World Anthology (Video; Island # 440 083 873 3)
-- The artists included are Salif Kieta, Dede St. Prix, Fela Kuti, Ray Lema, Buckwheat Zydeco, King Sunny Ade, Los Van Van, Kanda Bongo Man, Ntsikane, Joe Arroyo Y La Verdad, Malombo, Boukman Eksperyans, Soul Brothers, Baba Maal, Irakere, Abdullah Ibrahim, Oscar D'Leo , Malathini & Mahotella Queens.
1991
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Fela Live (Video USA, Shanachie 101)
Confusion Break Bones / Techer Don't Teach Me Nonsense
--Recorded live at Glastonbury, England. Copyright: Arts International Limited 1984
1992
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Underground System (LP Nigeria, Kalakuta KALP013; CD UK (1992), Sterns STCD1043)
[A] Underground System
[B] Pansa Pansa
-- Although the CD version of 'US' contains both the instrumental part and the subsequent vocal part, the Nigerian LP version of 'US' contains only the vocal part and lacks the preceding instrumental part.
1992
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti
Black Man's Cry
(CD USA, Shanachie 44013)
Zombie / Shuffering & Shmiling / No Agreement / Shakara / Black Man's Cry / Lady
-- Compilation of older material. The track labeled "Black Man's Cry" is actually "Eko Ile" from "Afrodisiac" (EMI Nigeria 062). "Shuffering & Shmiling" is only the first, instrumental part of the song.
1995
Lekan Animashaun
Low Profile (Not For The Blacks): Music of Lekan Animashaun
(LP Nigeria, Kalakuta 003)
[A] Low Profile
[B] Se-Rere
-- Fela played organ and produced the album. Both tracks were originally recorded in the late 70's, but had not been released until 1995. 'Se-rere' was included in the compilation CD 'The Original Afro Beat: The Sound of 90's Nigeria' (CD UK, Aladdin Records ALA 212) in 1999, and the entire album was also re-issued on a 2 on 1 format of CD (Honest Jons Records HJRCD 101/2) in 2004.
2000
Lagbaja
Abami (A Tribute To Fela) (CD Nigeria, Mothelan' Music MM040006)
Million / Abami / Vernacular / Put Am Well Well
-- `Vernacular' and 'Put Am Well Well' feature Fela's monolog etc.
2002
Various Artists
Red Hot + Riot (CD; MCA 08811 30752)
Intro: Fela Mentality / Kalakuta Show / Interlude: Live at Kalakuta / Shuffering & Shmiling / Interlude: Gimme Sh*t / Water No Get Enemy / Water No Get Enemy / Gentleman / Tears and Sorrow / Shakara/Lady, Pt. 1 / Shakara/Lady, Pt. 2 / Don't Worry About My Mouth O (African Message) / Zombie, Pt. 1 / Zombie, Pt. 2 / No Agreement / So Be It / Interlude/This Is an Ashanti Proverb / By Your Side / Colonial Mentality / Trouble Sleep Yanga Wake Am
-- Great Fela Kuti tribute album including remix of Fela's original tracks and performances.
2004
Fela Kuti mixed by Chief Xcel
The Underground Spiritual Game
(CD USA, Quannum QP 048 (Sept.7); CD France, Barclay 98118045 (Aug.13))
Intro / Ololufe Mi / Trouble Sleep Yanga Wake Am / Look and Laugh / Mr Grammarticalogylisationaslism is the Boss / Monkey Banana / Ariya / Unnecessary Begging / Swegbe and Pako / Mr. Follow Follow / Africa Center of the World
-- Mixed by Chief Xcel of Blackalicious. 11 album tracks taken from Fela Kuti's Africa 70, Egypt 80, and Koola Lobitos lineups. Exective producer, Paul Heck.
2006
Ginger Baker
In Africa (DVD; Eagle Rock EREDV599)
-- Legendary Tony Palmer's film taken mainly in Nigeria in 1971-1972, featuring other artists including Johnny Haastrup and his band, Monomono, Segun Bucknor and Sweet Things, The Lijadu Sisters, Yoruba drummers from Oshogbo, Twins Seven-Seven, Atilogwu dancers, Ginger Baker's SALT, and Fela... This DVD incudes live performance of 'Don't Gag Me' by Fela Ransome Kuti and Africa 70's in 1972. Here you also see a rare footage of former ace tenor saxophonist, Igo Chico, soloing, blarring his horn in a fanfare style and holding the groove together, while Fela directed traffic on the dance floor with his dancers, claves and shaker players. (Thanks to Deen Ipaye for the information.)
2006
Toks Ilorin
Featuring The Great Fela Anikulapo Kuti and Africa 70 Band, Ikeja, Lagos 1980 (CD, Toks Music ADT 0135)
Transkei Song / Maseru To Bamako / Military Milionaires
-- Arranged and produced by Toks Ilorin, Prod. by Fela Anikulapo Kuti
2007
Fela Anikulapo Kuti / Complete Works Of Fela Anikulapo Kuti (CD; Nigeria, Evergreen Musical Company, no suffix)
Fela & His Koola Lobitos (His Highlife Era) :
[1] Everyday I Got My Blues / Ololufe Mi / Fere / Yese / Omuti / Omo Ejo / Oloruka / Abiara / Ako / Home Cooking / Great Kids
[2] Highlife Time / Ekuro La Labaku / Mi O Mo / Viva Nigeria / Lagos Baby / Alagbara / Opuro O Se O (Home Cooking) / Wayo (2nd Version) / Obe / Eko / Funky Horn
[3] Oyejo / Onidodo / Se E Tun De / Araba's Delight / Obinrin Le / Yabons Ke Lele / Waka Waka / Eke / My Baby Don't Love Me / Orise / V.C.7 / I Know Your Feeling / This Is Sad
[4] Fere / Bonfo / Wa Dele / Awo / Egbin / My Dog & Cat / Yabomisa / Ajo / Mo Ti Gboro Kan / Lai Se / Amaechi's Blues
Fela Anikulapo Kuti :
[5] Jeun Ko Ku / Buy Africa / Fefe Naa Efe / Open & Close / Who Are You
[6] Trouble Sleep Yanga Wake Am / Teacher Don't Teach Me Nonsense
[7] Yellow Fever / Water No Get Enemy / Army Arrangement
[8] Unknown Soldier / Rofo Rofo Fight / Mistake - Live In Berlin
[9] Colonial Mentality / Look And Laugh
[10] Na Poi 1&2 / Vagabonds In Power
[11] Coffin For Head Of Stage / You No Go Die / Noise For Vendor Mouth
[12] Sorrow, Tears & Blood / Rere Run (Everything Scatter)/ Alagbon Close
[13] Authority Stealing / Shakara / Stalemate
[14] I.T.T. / Kalakuta Show 1
[15] Na Poi '75 / Just Like That / Black Man's Cry
[16] Why Black Man De Suffer / I No Get Eye For Back / Ikoyi Mentality versus Mushin Mentality
[17] Overtake Don Overtake Overtake (Vocals) / No Agreement
[18] No Bread / Na Fight O / I No Be Gentleman
[19] Jehin Jehin / Jenwi Temi (Don't Gag Me) / Fogo Fogo / Monkey Banana
[20] Yeye De Smell / Question Jam Answer / Original Suffer Head
[21] Confusion Break Bones(C.B.B.) / Government Chiken Boy
[22] Equalization Of Trouser & Pant / J.J.D.
[23] Te Je Je / Unnecessary Begging / Pansa Pansa
[24] Go Slow / He No Possible / Beautiful Dancer
[25] Opposite People / Egbe Mi O (Fela & Ginger Baker) / Shenshema
[26] Sense Wiseness / Going In & Going Out / Excuse O / Instrumental
[27] Upside Down / Mr. Follow Follow / Palmwine Sound
[28] Beasts Of No Nation / Fight To Finish / Igbe / He Miss Road
[29] Expensive Shit / Mr. Gramaticalogy - Lisationalism Is The Boss
[30] Beggars' Song / Ariya / Eko Ile / Jeun Koku (Instrumental) / Gba Mi Leti Ki N'Dolowo
[31] Monday Morning / Fear Not For Man / Confusion 1
[32] I Go Shout Plenty / Dog Eat Dog / Alujonjon Ki Jon
[33] Suegbe & Pako / Who No Know Go Know /Gbagada Gbogodo
[34] Lady / Let's Start / Underground System
[35] Zombie / M.O.P. (1)
[36] Africa Centre Of The World / Mattress / Don't Worry About My Mouth
[37] Power Show / Param Bulator /Custom Check Point
[38] M.O.P. (2) / Ikoyi Blindness / Cross Examination
[39] Suffering & Smiling / Give Me Shit, I Give You Shit
[40] 2000 Blacks / Stranger (Alhaji Alhaji)
--This is an amazing CD set released and distributed only in Nigeria. Although this is not a complete set of Fela's recordings, of course, it contains 150 golden tunes i.e. 46 Koola Lobitos-related tracks and 104 Fela Ransome or Anikulapo Kuti's tracks. But what is really amazing is that it contains several previously unidentified tracks! 'Yabons Ke Lele' on disk 3 seems to be "Die Die" and "Ekuro La Labaku Ewa" be "Kusimilaya" (both were released as PNE102). Koola Lobitos's 'Ekuro La Labaku ' on disk 2, and 'My Dog & Cat' and 'Yabomisa' on disk 4 are previously unknown tracks, which may have been released as a single. Fela Kuti's 'Stranger (Alhaji Alhaji)' on disk 40 appeared previously only on a bootleg CD as 'Music Against Second Slavery'. This information and image file were provided by Kazuya Ogiwara, who corrected errors in the track listings on the package. Deen Ipaye is also helping me to correct the track listing. Thanks a lot!
2010
Fela and Egypt 80 Band
Big Blind Country - Afro Beat Live!! (LP Nigeria, Yoruba Records YO0132)
[A] Big Blind Country (Part One)
[B] Big Blind Country (Part Two)
-- This track was taken from the unofficial live recordings called 'Fela at Lekki Beach, 1994', which included 'Chop and Clean Mouth, Like Nothing Happen' and 'Music Against Second Slavery' as well. The jacket artwork was also pirated from the 'Open and Close' re-issue album designed by Ghariokwu Lemi without his approval.
2010
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and The Egypt 80
Fela NYC: Fresh From Africa (DVD US, U-Phonic Films)
Contents not verified yet
--A new documentary DVD taken in NYC from Greenwich Village to Harlem.
2012
Fela Kuti and Egypt 80
Live in Detroit 1986 (CD US, Knitting Factory Records KFR1028)
[CD 1] Just Like That
[CD 2] Confusion Break Bones / Teacher Don't Teach Me Nonsense
[CD 3] Beast of No Nation
- Long awaited new release of Fela, which was previously available only as a personal recording. 'Se Rere', which was performed as an opening number, was cut in this release, but other tracks are included as complete forms. Recorded at the Fox Theatre, Detroit MI, on November 7, 1986. Original master recording by Bob Teagan and the Wendy Hour. The poster replica, courtesy of Braian Long.
According to Michael Veal and Olajide Bello, the following songs have been often performed, but have not been recorded yet.
- Ojo Ton Su
This song was performed in his early days.
- Football Government
- O. A. U.
- N. N. G. (Nigerian Natural Grass)
- M. A. S. S. (Music Against Second Slavery)
- B. B. C. (Big Blind Country)
- Chop And Clean Mouth Like Nothing Happen
- Country of Pain
- G. O. C. (Government of Crooks)
- A. S. B. O. P (Akunakuna, Senior Brother of Parabulator)
- C. S. A. A. (Condom Stalawagy and Scatter)
- C. R. F. J. J. (Clear Road for Jaga Jaga)
- Bamaiyi
- Cock Dance
- Sisi me-o
-- According to Miles Cleret, this afro-beat song was recorded by Jerry Hansen (Leader of the 'Ramblers dance band' [Ghanaian Highlife]) on a single from Editions Makossa (7" 45; Editions Makossa EM2722A, 1975). The B-side is 'Neya Waye Me', a cover of an African Brothers track written by Nana Ampadu.
-- Special Thanks to Yoshiki Fukasawa, Michael E. Veal, Ray Templeton, Deen Ipaye (http://felakuti-lyrics-and-pidgin-english.blogspot.com/), Dr.John H Cowley, John Beadle, T. Ajayi Thomas, Olajide Bello, Greg Villanova, Carter van Pelt, Steve Mereu, Carlo C. Brander, Miles Cleret, Michael Kieffer, Paul Heck, Duncan Brooker, Andrew Symington , Kazuya Ogiwara, Patrick Mund, Naoki Ienaga, Carlos Moore, John Collins, Rikki Stein, Brian Long, Markus Coester, Uchenna Ikonne, Paul Cleugh, Chris May et al.
Last updated on April 3, 2024.
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