Tekno Disputes Fela's Status as Afrobeats Originator

Nigerian singer Augustine Miles Kelechi, known as Tekno, has publicly rejected the widely held belief that the late Fela Anikulapo-Kuti is the sole originator of Afrobeats. In an interview with Hot 97 FM in New York, Tekno asserted that numerous older musicians played crucial roles in developing the sound associated with Afrobeats, yet many remain unrecognized.

He specifically mentioned the late highlife musician Oliver De Coque and other artists from eastern Nigeria. Tekno stated, “Fela is not the originator of Afrobeats... we had legends like Oliver De Coque.” He acknowledged Fela's influence on his music, particularly his song "Rara," which was inspired by Fela's work.

However, he argued that Fela receives disproportionate credit due to his international performances, while other influential musicians deserve more recognition for their contributions to the genre.