Afrobeat In Hip-Hop: Fela Kuti's Influence

Hip-hop is well known for providing new perspectives to old classics. We often acknowledge the presence of funk and soul in hip-hop, but what impact does afrobeat have on the innovative sound. Check out below a few hip-hop hits that sampled some of afrobeat’s most legendary grooves from Fela Kuti.

“Let Nas Down” is a song from J. Cole’s newest album Born Sinner that takes after the Fela Kuti & The Afrika 70 track titled, “Gentleman.”


J. Cole - Let Nas Down (2013)

Fela Kuti - Gentleman (1973)


Once again, Fela Kuti’s presence is felt in this inspirational song that uses some rhythms from his 1972 track titled “Na Poi.”

Nas ft. Alicia Keys - Warrior Song (2002)Fela Kuti - Na Poi (1972)


Kuti & Afrika 70 provided the creative spark for “Whatcha Gon Do” off of Missy Elliot’s 2001 album, Miss E …So Addictive. This song samples Fela & Afrika 70’s classic, “Colonial Mentality.”

Missy Elliot ft. Timbaland - Whatcha Gon’ Do (2001)Fela Kuti - Colonial Mentality (1977)

“I Will Not Apologize” samples Fela Kuti’s “Mr Grammarticalogylisationalism Is the Boss.” Fela’s raw bassline assists The Legendary Roots Crew in just the right way, adding the perfect flavor to complete the track.

Fela Kuti - Mr Grammarticalogylisationalism Is the Boss (1975)

The Roots - I Will Not Apologize (2008)