Renowned Afrobeat family of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti recently in Lagos, launched the biography of their mother, Remilekun Anikulapo-Kuti titled: “Mrs Kuti” (a memoir) to the world.
The book is a long-awaited biography of the late first wife of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
The book was officially approved for publishing from her personal memoirs by her children, former ace dancer and music impresario, Yeni Anikulapo-Kuti and Afrobeat multiple Grammy Awards nominee, Femi Anikulapo-Kuti.
The duo disclosed at the event that their aim of publishing the book was to immortalize their mother, whom the described as the unseen and unknown”pillar of their family”, whose remarkable silent contributions aided tremendously to the unprecedented global musical exploits of their father, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
The well-attended event, held at Ouida books house, Ikeja, Lagos, was graced by celebrities led by Yeni and Femi Anikulapo-Kuti; Dr Olaokun Soyinka; Nollywood actress Carol King, Made Anikulapo-Kuti; Barrister Srandra Oyewole, Shola Shoneyin, CEO of Ouida books and the chief host of the occasion; the Anikulapo-Kuti family members, friends and associates.
The very colorful and highly entertaining event featured excellent music performances, arts poetic, literally and cultural expressions and historic musical documentary impacts and discussions. An amazing performance by the fast rising Afrobeat artiste, and grandson of the book author, Made Anikulapo-Kuti, drew the curtain of the day.
Subsequently, a minute silence was observed in honour of Remilekun Anikulapo-Kuti. A video tribute message titled “letter to RA-K” by the author’s only surviving younger sister, Aunty Sonia took over. Later, more tributes poured in from her Sandra Oyewole and grand daughter, Sandra Jacka.
Her grand children shared a documentary tribute of fun memories and impact with their grandma. Afterwards, a very classical tribute poetry was presented by her grand daughter Damilade Anikulapo-Kuti, it was excitedly received. Actor Carol King, came and did justice to the professional book reading session from the book “ Mrs Kuti”.
The book “Mrs Kuti”, is a comprehensive historic documentation of Remilekun Anikulapo-Kuti’s life from childhood before she met Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, the Nigerian music legend.
Remilekun Anikulapo-Kuti passed away on 12th, January 2002, in Lagos, Nigeria. This is her first and only book.
