Fela Kuti wasn’t at all worried about contracting HIV in 1997. On the contrary, those lesions simply meant he was ‘shedding his skin’ like a snake, becoming ever more powerful. That mix of balls-out heroism and terrifying self-delusion typified the iconic Nigerian singer and activist, whose electrifying life and times are explored here by documentary-maker Alex Gibney.
It’s a decent enough beginner’s guide, though never quite gets a grip on its complex subject. Check out 1982 Fela doc Music Is The Weapon – or consider it a stopgap until the biopic emerges from development hell.
