Shakara

Fela Kuti · 1972

27 min · 2 tracks · jazz · Afrobeat · highlife

A vibrant tapestry of rhythmic grooves and powerful horns, blending jazz with African musical traditions.

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Why listen to this

Context: Released in 1972, 'Shakara' marked Fela Kuti's rising prominence in the Afrobeat genre after his influential album 'Expensive Shit' the previous year. This album solidified his reputation as a political artist, further developing his unique sound that mixed highlife, jazz, and traditional Nigerian music.
If you like: jazz, Afrobeat, highlife
What next: Igbe — Continues the vibrant grooves and complex arrangements found in Shakara.

Shakara is an album by Fela Kuti, released in 1972. A vibrant tapestry of rhythmic grooves and powerful horns, blending jazz with African musical traditions. The album is significant for its critical acclaim, contributing to the popularization of Afrobeat outside Nigeria. It has been recognized for its bold political themes and innovative fusion of genres, influencing countless artists and movements in world music. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Shakara sound like?

A vibrant tapestry of rhythmic grooves and powerful horns, blending jazz with African musical traditions. Rooted in jazz and Afrobeat.

What makes Shakara by Fela Kuti notable?

The album is significant for its critical acclaim, contributing to the popularization of Afrobeat outside Nigeria. It has been recognized for its bold political themes and innovative fusion of genres, influencing countless artists and movements in world music. Released in 1972, 'Shakara' marked Fela Kuti's rising prominence in the Afrobeat genre after his influential album 'Expensive Shit' the previous year. This album solidified his reputation as a political artist, further developing his unique sound that mixed highlife, jazz, and traditional Nigerian music.

How many songs are on Shakara?

Shakara has 2 tracks, running approximately 27 minutes.