Afrobeat: The Sound, the Story, and Where to Find It

Want to get into Afrobeat but don’t know where to start? Afrobeat is the long, groove-driven music Fela Kuti built in the 1960s and 70s — heavy on horns, percussion, call-and-response vocals, and political lyrics. It’s different from today’s Afrobeats pop scene, and knowing that helps you find the right songs fast.

Afrobeat vs Afrobeats — what’s the difference?

Quick hit: Afrobeat (no "s") is the Fela-led style—political, long tracks, tight horn sections, complex rhythms. Afrobeats (with an "s") is modern West African pop — shorter songs, dance-first, more global pop and electronic production. If you want raw grooves and social commentary, look for Afrobeat. If you want radio hits for parties, search Afrobeats.

So what does real Afrobeat sound like? Think repeating horn lines, skanking guitars, layered percussion (congas, shakers, talking drums), and a steady groove that lets solos breathe. Songs stretch five to twenty minutes so bands can jam. Lyrics often call out corruption, social problems, and daily life with blunt, memorable lines.

Who to listen to first: start with Fela Kuti—albums like "Zombie" and "Expensive Shit" are essential. Then move to Tony Allen (drummer and co-creator), Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti (Fela’s sons), and bands like Antibalas from the US revival scene. Those names give you the roots and a sense of how Afrobeat grew and traveled.

How to find authentic Afrobeat tracks

Streaming tip: search playlists named "Fela Kuti Essentials," "Afrobeat Classics," or "Afrobeat Roots." On Bandcamp you can find smaller labels and recent releases from African bands. YouTube is great for live shows — Afrobeat lives in the performance. Want to buy vinyl? Look for reissues from Honest Jon's or Strut Records.

Want something current? Look for modern acts blending Afrobeat with funk, jazz, or hip-hop. Bands like Kokoroko and The Comet Is Coming borrow Afrobeat energy in new ways. Also check radio shows and podcasts that spotlight African music — they often link playlists and local artists.

See it live if you can. Lagos hosts Felabration every year to celebrate Fela’s legacy. Smaller clubs and world-music festivals worldwide book Afrobeat bands often — the live setting makes the grooves hit harder.

Last tip: when an album has long tracks, live energy, tight horns, and lyrics about politics or daily struggle, you’re probably listening to Afrobeat. Follow artists, share their shows, and buy music when possible — that’s the best way to keep the scene alive.

Ready to explore? Queue a Fela playlist, watch a live set, and let the groove teach you the rest.