The Afrobeats genre is buzzing with news of a collaboration between Rock Icon Lenny Kravitz and the Grammy Nominated Afrobeats Artist Seun Kuti, set to globally release on October 4th, on Record Kicks. Seun is the youngest son of the cultural music legend and global influential phenomenon Fela Kuti. Since his father’s death in 1997, Seun has carved out an influential career for himself, carrying his father’s torch within the music genre. In 2019, he earned himself a Grammy Nomination in the Best World Music Album category at the 61st Awards for his fourth studio album, “Black Times.” Kravitz and Seun have come together to work on a brand new album for the Afrobeats artist. Working as the Executive Producer, Kravitz is curating the music with Fela Kuti’s original and longstanding producer and engineer Sodi Marciszewer. In addition, Kuti’s band Egypt 80, which was taken over by Seun after his father, Fela, passed away, will provide the accompaniment for the album.

Seun made the original announcement on Facebook, and Lenny Kravitz supported the post by sharing it to his account, as well. The post highlights a photo of the two embracing hands while in the studio. It also included a caption, which shared the news of the new album, which will be released later this year in the Fall.

Lenny Kravitz And Seun Kuti Working In The Studio

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Grammy-winning rock icon Lenny Kravitz will executive produce the highly anticipated new album from Seun Kuti & Egypt 80, working alongside legendary producer and engineer Sodi Marciszewer, renowned for his work with the Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti. The new album is expected to drop worldwide in Autumn on independent Milan label Record Kicks distributed by Secretly distribution. Seun Kuti, the youngest son of Fela Kuti, has been a powerful force in the Afrobeat scene, continuing his father’s legacy while forging his own path. This new album promises to be a milestone in the genre. Lenny Kravitz, known for his eclectic musical style and multi-instrumental talent, brings a fresh perspective to the project. His involvement is expected to introduce new elements to the Afrobeat sound, while staying true to its roots. Sodi Marciszewer, who played a pivotal role in shaping Fela Kuti’s iconic sound, adds a layer of authenticity and continuity to the project. His deep understanding of Afrobeat’s intricate rhythms and textures ensures that the new album will resonate with longtime fans and new listeners alike.

Taken from the Caption on Seun Anikulapo-Kuti’s YouTube Post

Seun Kuti And Lenny Kravitz Tease The Collaboration While In Paris

Seun teased the idea of working with Kravitz a year ago on June 12, 2023. He shared the video on Wednesday, exactly one year later on his social media accounts. The visual shows Seun and Kravitz in Paris. When the rock icon comes into frame he says, “we’re getting ready to make some serious music.” The music refers to the album, which is on its way later this year.

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80: The North American Tour 2024

Seun Kuti and Egypt 80 are currently on their North American Tour, which opened on June 8, in Burlington, VT at the Burlington Discover Jazz Festival. Footage from the show can be seen below. Fans can see Seun and Egypt 80 in concert on their tour until July 28.

See the full schedule of the Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 North American Tour 2024, below. Fans can get tickets on the official Seun Kuti website at SeunKuti.net.

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