Fela, Sade Adu shine at Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Nigerian music icons Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and Sade Adu have been inducted into the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, showcasing Nigeria's impact on the global music scene. Fela, a late Afrobeat legend, was posthumously honored in the Early Influence category, while Sade, the Nigerian-British vocalist, was inducted as a Performer alongside her band.

The event, held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, saw Fela's family, including his children Seun, Yeni, Femi, Shalewa, and Made, representing the late artist. Fela's posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in February further cemented his status as the first African recipient of the honor. Sade, 67, was notably absent from the ceremony, joining other artists like Oasis, Iron Maiden, Wu-Tang Clan, Billy Idol, Phil Collins, Joy Division/New Order, and Luther Vandross. The Rock Hall also recognized women in hip-hop, with Queen Latifah and MC Lyte receiving accolades.