Yeni Kuti reflects on relationship challenges

Yeni Kuti, media personality and eldest child of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, recently shared her experiences of how being Fela’s daughter had a detrimental impact on her relationships. In an interview with Daily Trust, Yeni disclosed that her association with the iconic musician was once a hindrance in her personal life.

Reflecting on the challenges, Yeni revealed that being Fela’s child wasn’t considered socially favorable during that time. She recounted an incident involving her younger brother, Femi, who faced a breakup when his girlfriend discovered his lineage as Fela’s son. According to Yeni, the stigma associated with the family name led to strained relationships.

She narrated, “Femi had a girlfriend, and immediately they knew he was Fela’s son, they broke up the relationship. A girl warned my cousin never to introduce her to such a type of person [Fela’s family].”

During that period, the family faced social exclusion as Fela’s tumultuous life, marked by legal troubles and imprisonment, contributed to a negative perception. Yeni emphasized the disparity between the challenges faced as Fela’s child then and the positive recognition the family receives now.

Yeni recalled a personal experience where her connection to Fela hindered a romantic interest. She shared, “I remember one guy that I really liked. I mean, I really liked him, but his mother walked me out of their house. The woman was yelling, ‘Don’t come near my son again. You want to destroy my son’s life.'”

Despite the difficulties encountered in the past, Yeni acknowledged the transformation in public perception, highlighting that being Fela’s child is now regarded as a source of pride. The family has navigated through various phases, and today, the legacy of Afrobeat has gained widespread recognition and appreciation.