Meet Shekx, a talented artiste from Nasarawa state, freshly graduated from the University of Jos.
For his final year project, Shekx delved into the powerful connection of music and politics, exploring “Music As A Tool For Political Agitation” through the legendary Fela Kuti’s songs.
Fela, the Afrobeats pioneer, famously used his voice to challenge bad governance and oppression.
Bestxplorer chats with Shekx to discuss his project and the enduring impact of Fela’s legacy. Meanwhile it will interest you to know that his new single ‘BADTIN’ will be dropping soon.
READ OUR CHATS WITH HIM BELOW…
BESTX: Good evening, BESTXPLORER has find your first degree project topic “Music as a tool for political agitation: A case study of Fela Kuti’s songs” interesting and inspiring and we will like to ask you some few questions in this regard.
QUEST. What inspired you to explore the topic “Music as a tool for political agitation” for your first degree project?
SHEKX: My inspiration to explore ‘Music as a tool for political agitation’ comes from my deep admiration for how powerful music can be in shaping public opinion and igniting social change. Fela Kuti, as a pioneer of Afrobeat, used his music not just for entertainment but to challenge political systems, advocate for human rights, and give a voice to the oppressed. His ability to mix art with activism inspired me to investigate how music can transcend its traditional boundaries and become a vehicle for political resistance and social justice.
QUEST: Why did you choose Fela Kuti’s songs as a case study, and what specifically drew you to his music?
SHEKX: I chose Fela Kuti’s songs as a case study because Fela is one of the most iconic figures in African music, and his work is deeply intertwined with political activism. He didn’t just use music for entertainment; he used it as a weapon to fight against government corruption, oppression, and injustice in Nigeria. His songs like ‘Zombie’ and ‘Coffin for Head of State’ directly challenged military regimes, making his music a bold act of defiance. What drew me to his music specifically is how he masterfully blended Afrobeat rhythms with powerful, unapologetic messages, creating songs that were not only sonically captivating but also deeply impactful in advancing social and political causes.
QUEST: How do you think Fela Kuti’s music exemplifies political agitation, and what message do you think he conveyed through his songs?
SHEKX: Fela Kuti’s music exemplifies political agitation through its fearless critique of oppressive regimes and societal injustice. He used Afrobeat as a platform to highlight the corruption, abuse of power, and suffering of the Nigerian people under military rule. Songs like ‘Zombie’ ridiculed the blind obedience of soldiers, while ‘Sorrow, Tears, and Blood’ exposed the violent repression of peaceful protests. His music wasn’t just about raising awareness; it was about mobilizing people to question authority and demand change. Through his songs, Fela conveyed messages of resistance, freedom, and empowerment, urging his listeners to fight against oppression and reclaim their dignity and rights.
QUEST: What were some of the key findings or insights you gained from your research on Fela Kuti’s music and its impact on political agitation?
SHEKX: One of the key findings from my research on Fela Kuti’s music is how deeply interconnected his work was with Nigeria’s socio-political landscape. His music was not only a form of artistic expression but also a revolutionary tool that inspired political consciousness and resistance among the masses. I discovered that Fela’s unique ability to communicate complex political issues in accessible, engaging ways made his music a powerful force for mobilization. Another key insight was how his activism, through music, transcended Nigeria, resonating across Africa and the world, showing how art can challenge oppressive structures globally. Ultimately, Fela’s music proved that cultural expression could be a potent form of political agitation, capable of inspiring change and confronting power structures.
QUEST: How do you think music can be an effective tool for political change, and what role do artists play in this process?
SHEKX: Music can be an incredibly effective tool for political change because it has the power to connect with people on an emotional level, bypassing traditional political discourse. It can inspire, educate, and mobilize large groups by conveying complex ideas in ways that resonate with diverse audiences. Music can transcend barriers of language, culture, and geography, making it a universal form of communication. Artists play a crucial role in this process because they often serve as the voice of the people, expressing the frustrations, hopes, and dreams of their communities. Through their platform, artists can highlight injustices, challenge the status quo, and inspire action. They have the ability to rally movements, raise awareness, and keep critical conversations alive. Fela Kuti is a perfect example of this—he used his music to push for social and political reforms, becoming a symbol of resistance and change.
QUEST: What advice would you give to emerging artists who want to use their music as a tool for social change?
SHEKX: My advice to emerging artists who want to use their music for social change is to stay authentic and true to the message they want to convey. First, deeply understand the issues you’re passionate about, so your music reflects genuine concern and awareness. Use your unique voice to shed light on injustices, empower others, and create art that speaks to the heart of social and political issues. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo, even when it’s uncomfortable.
At the same time, remember the importance of building a community around your music,social change happens when people unite. Collaborate with like-minded artists, activists, and organizations to amplify your message. Also, keep in mind that change is a process; it takes time and persistence. Music is a powerful tool, and as long as you believe in your cause, your music can inspire others to act.
QUEST: How do you stay inspired and motivated to create music that addresses pressing social issues?
SHEKX: I stay inspired and motivated by constantly engaging with the world around me—paying attention to current events, listening to the stories of those affected by injustice, and reflecting on my own experiences. Seeing how deeply social issues affect people’s lives keeps my drive alive. I also draw inspiration from artists like Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, and Nina Simone, who used their music to stand up for what they believed in.
Collaborating with like-minded creatives and activists also fuels my motivation, reminding me that I’m part of something bigger. At the same time, knowing that music can be a force for positive change gives me purpose. When I see how a song can spark a conversation, inspire someone to take action, or raise awareness about an issue, it reinforces my belief that music truly has the power to make a difference. In 2021 I dropped an extended playlist titled “Music & School” it’s a six track project and in the playlist I did a song titled “Anthem” and it’s says a lot about the political and socioeconomic issues faced in Nigeria,ranging from bad governance, end sarz,end police brutality, end corruption etc I think checking the song out will make more meaning and it’s available on all digital platforms.
BESTX: Thank you for sparing us your precious time.
WATCH A SNIPPET FOR HIS UPCOMING RELEASE ‘BADTIN’
