Fela Kuti has made history as the first African artist to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The Afrobeat legend will be honoured in the “Early Influence” category, marking a major milestone for African music on the global stage.
The announcement was made Monday night in the United States during a broadcast of American Idol, where this year’s inductees were officially unveiled. Fela joins other honourees including Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Gram Parsons, and Celia Cruz in the same category.
In the performance category, Nigerian-born British singer Sade Adu will also be honoured. However, several high-profile nominees, including Shakira, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, New Edition, and Pink, did not make the final list.
More than 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals participated in the voting process that determined the 2026 inductees. The official induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 14 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.
The recognition adds to a landmark year for Fela, who earlier received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, becoming the first African musician to earn the prestigious honour.
