We reviewed the first edition of Fela – Kalakuta Notes in 2009. A second expanded edition was published in 2015 by Wesleyan University Press.
In this second edition, British-Ghanaian musician and author Collins has extended the original introduction by providing crucial context for popular music in Africa in the 1960s and the influences on Fela Kuti’s music and politics. The 1960s was a time of independence and change for many African nations, including Nigeria.
Another addition to the original book is a new closing chapter, where Collins discusses the legacy of Fela: the international spread of Afrobeat; Fela’s musical children, Femi and Seun Kuti; the Kalakuta Museum; and the annual Felabrations held in Nigeria, North America and Europe.
The discography has been updated by Ronnie Graham. Also, there’s a timeline; and historical photographs.
Lastly, the new edition includes a foreword by Banning Eyre, senior editor of American syndicated radio show Afropop Worldwide.
As indicated in our previous review of the book, Fela: Kalakuta Notes is an essential read. Fela Kuti was a highly influential musician who developed a new musical genre, Afrobeat that has spread throughout the world. His music and political activism have influenced numerous individuals throughout the world.
Buy Fela: Kalakuta Notes Second Edition in the Americas
Buy Fela: Kalakuta Notes Second Edition in Europe
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
