Legendary singer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, marking a historic milestone as the first Nigerian artist to receive the honour.

He is recognised in the “Early Influence” category, alongside notable artists such as Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons.

The announcement was made Monday night during an American Idol broadcast in the United States.

Nigerian-born British singer Sade Adu is also among the honourees, recognised in the “Performer” category alongside Phil Collins, Billy Idol, and Iron Maiden.

Fela’s induction is a notable achievement, coming nearly 30 years after his passing and two years after the Grammys introduced the Best African Performance category.

Earlier this year, he became the first African musician to receive the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

The induction ceremony is set for November 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.

In all, 18 artistes made the cut across four categories:

Performer Category:

Phil Collins

Billy Idol

Iron Maiden

Joy Division/New Order

Oasis

Sade Adu

Luther Vandross

Wu-Tang Clan

Early Influence Award:

Celia Cruz

Fela Kuti

Queen Latifah

MC Lyte

Gram Parsons

Musical Excellence Award:

Linda Creed

Arif Mardin

Jimmy Miller

Rick Rubin

Ahmet Ertegun Award:

Ed Sullivan (The Nation)

Update news