Name: Ikoyi Blindness
Brand: Fela Kuti

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

KFR2017-3

Colour

White

Colour details

Iresi (Opaque White)&nbsp;

Discogs ID

Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: No

Format detail

Format Music GB

Limited edition

Release date

2024-02-23

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier GB

PIAS

Tax rate GB

Standard:20

UPC / Barcode

0720841207733

Total Cap

White LP

Artist

Fela Kuti

Genre GB

African

Label GB

Knitting Factory

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Fela Kuti, born on 15 October 1938 in Abeokuta, Nigeria, was a legendary musician and human rights revolutionary. He formed his first group Koola Lobitos in 1963 and later changed the name to Afrika 70. Fela's vision and collaboration with key members like drummer Tony Allen ensured that the jazz, funk, and afrobeat style remained consistent throughout the decades. Known for his political activism, Fela started his own party to protest corruption in Nigeria. His influence on funk and African music is unparalleled, with a discography of approximately 77 albums.

After visiting America in 1969, Fela returned to Nigeria and opened club Afro Spot in Lagos. He collaborated with renowned musicians such as Ginger Baker and Bobby Tench from The Jeff Beck Group on notable albums like "Ginger Baker Live with Afrika 70" (1971) and "Stratavarious" (1972). In 1981, he renamed his group Egypt 80.

Fela Anikulapo Kuti, formerly known as Fela Ransome-Kuti until about 1978, was not only a musical icon but also a symbol of resistance against oppression. He established his own compound called the Kalakuta Republic in Lagos which he declared independent from Nigeria. However, this led to constant harassment by the government towards him and his numerous wives.

Knitting Factory is a renowned music label that was initially called [l7826]. With the aim of promoting diverse and innovative music, Knitting Factory has established itself as a leading force in the industry. Since its inception, this label has been dedicated to supporting talented artists and performers, showcasing their unique sounds to a global audience.

With an impressive catalog of releases, Knitting Factory offers a wide range of genres including jazz, world music, rock, and electronic. The label's commitment to quality and artistic integrity is evident in every release they put out. From iconic albums by *John Zorn* and *Medeski Martin & Wood* to groundbreaking works by *The Bad Plus* and *Bill Frisell*, Knitting Factory continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be a record label.

As you explore the vast collection of music on offer from Knitting Factory, you'll discover hidden gems waiting to be unearthed. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the label's roster, there's something for everyone here. Join us on this musical journey as we celebrate the incredible talent fostered by Knitting Factory.

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Fela used the cover of Ikoyi Blindness to announce his change of middle name from Ransome, which he now considered a slave name, to Anikulapo, which means “he who carries death in his pouch.” The front cover shows Ransome crossed out and Anikulapo added above it. Fela also used the album cover to announce the Africanisation of Africa 70’s name, changing it to Afrika 70. In the title track, Fela draws attention to the economic chasm separating the haves and have-nots of Nigerian society, contrasting the get-rich-at-all-costs mindset of the residents of the prosperous Lagos suburb Ikoyi with the more community-minded attitude of the poor inhabitants of the Mushin, Maroko, Ajegunle and Somolu neighborhoods. Ikoyi residents are blind to the sufferings of less fortunate people, says Fela. 

 Fela returns to the topic on the second track, “Gba Mi Leti Ki N’Dolowo (Slap Me Make I Get Money).” In Lagos in 1975 and 1976, there had been an upsurge in police and military personnel assaults on people in the street; motorists were commonly pulled out of their vehicles and given a whipping for minor traffic offenses. Scandalously, the police and soldiers were being allowed to get away with corruption in broad daylight. In the lyric, Fela demands that the judiciary administer the law equally, without fear or favour.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ikoyi Blindness

Music GB

Discover Ikoyi Blindness by Fela Kuti. Vinyl records available from Knitting Factory. A powerful album addressing social and economic issues in Nigerian society.