Afrobeat pioneer Femi Kuti has released his highly anticipated eleventh studio album, Journey Through Life, marking a bold evolution in his musical journey. The album, released on April 25, 2025, showcases Kuti’s commitment to preserving the essence of Afrobeat while infusing it with contemporary energy and personal introspection.
Journey Through Life serves as a reflective exploration of Kuti’s experiences, blending personal stories with socio-political commentary. The album’s centerpiece, After 24 Years, critiques the state of Nigerian leadership, echoing sentiments from his 1998 track Sorry Sorry. Kuti expresses that despite the transition to democracy in 1999, the political landscape has seen little improvement, with leaders failing to deliver on promises.
Beyond political themes, the album delves into Kuti’s personal life, emphasizing the importance of family. He describes the work as a summary of his life from childhood to adulthood, highlighting the solid foundation family has provided throughout his journey.
Produced entirely by Kuti himself, Journey Through Life revisits and reimagines older tracks with fresh perspectives. Recorded at the Legacy Plus studios in Nigeria and mixed in Paris, the album captures Kuti’s evolution as an artist, activist, and father.
The album’s release follows a series of impactful singles, including Politics Don Expose Them and Oga Doctor, which have garnered international attention and airplay.
Journey Through Life has been met with critical acclaim, with performances described as so joyous it could have been the Notting Hill Carnival. The album’s fusion of traditional Afrobeat rhythms with contemporary influences positions Kuti as a dynamic force in the global music scene.
As Femi Kuti continues to innovate and inspire, Journey Through Life stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and his ability to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing musical landscape.
