Sadly, these events seem fairly common throughout Fela's career. These memories are mentioned in Carlos Moore's Authorized Biography of Fela, 'This Bitch of a Life.' Several of his wives also hint at the chaos and violence surrounding his live performances and the compound. Sandra Akanke Isidore who had a huge influence on Fela and who appears on the album, 'Upside Down,' also talks about the danger that surrounded Fela when she first went to Nigeria.
It speaks volumes of the power of art that a government can feel so threatened they are compelled to censor, ban, silence, erase and even attempt to kill the artist.
The Guardian piece is wild and terrifying and exciting—can see how it was viewed differently by those recalling it. This doesn't read that much differently than what I've read about chaos agents like Butthole Surfers—pure anarchy swirling around them (or Fela).
Sadly, these events seem fairly common throughout Fela's career. These memories are mentioned in Carlos Moore's Authorized Biography of Fela, 'This Bitch of a Life.' Several of his wives also hint at the chaos and violence surrounding his live performances and the compound. Sandra Akanke Isidore who had a huge influence on Fela and who appears on the album, 'Upside Down,' also talks about the danger that surrounded Fela when she first went to Nigeria.
It speaks volumes of the power of art that a government can feel so threatened they are compelled to censor, ban, silence, erase and even attempt to kill the artist.
The Guardian piece is wild and terrifying and exciting—can see how it was viewed differently by those recalling it. This doesn't read that much differently than what I've read about chaos agents like Butthole Surfers—pure anarchy swirling around them (or Fela).
Absolutely incredible article in the Guardian. I was biting my nails with every word. Thank you for sharing this with the world.