BABA KUBOYE

Baba Kuboye, a Grammy® nominated artist , is one of the most vibrant figures in contemporary Afrobeat and has captivated global audiences with his innovative fusion of music, activism, and cultural tradition. As the son of prominent Afro Jazz musicians Fran and Tunde Kuboye and nephew of the iconic Fela Kuti, the creator of Afrobeat, Baba carries a profound connection to Africa’s rich musical roots, which define his distinctive artistic vision.

Raised in a deeply musical home in Lagos, Nigeria, Baba Kuboye grew up immersed in creativity and artistic influence. His parents, renowned Afro Jazz musicians Fran and Tunde Kuboye, shaped his childhood with regular performances at their resident jazz club, Jazz 38. This environment allowed Baba to observe and actively participate in music from a young age, performing alongside them and honing his skills as a musician. Adding to this rich family heritage is his relationship with Fela Kuti, his uncle and the legendary creator of Afrobeat. This connection not only inspired Baba to explore the roots of the genre but also instilled in his music a commitment to authenticity, social consciousness, and the power of cultural protest.

In 2023, Baba Kuboye presented his EP From Ikoyi With Horns at the SXSW festival alongside his 13-piece band, marking a pivotal moment in his career. His style, which blends traditional rhythms with contemporary elements, has resonated deeply, particularly with tracks like Ikoyi Boy, awarded Best Afrobeat Song at the Hollywood Independent Music Awards. His compositions tackle social themes such as racism, mental health, and social inequalities, reflecting a conscious connection to the struggles and triumphs of his community. Baba Kuboye has not only graced international stages but also earned recognition for his impact on the genre. In addition to accolades like the Stardust Award from North Texas Performing Arts, his music has reached global audiences through platforms such as BET and MTV. As the founder of Down 4 Whateva Entertainment, the first minority-owned independent Afrobeat label in the United States, Baba Kuboye is paving the way for a new generation of artists who value cultural authenticity and musical innovation.

"With a budding career built on a sturdy foundation made possible by tight familial ties to music, Baba Kuboye's approach to music is one that blends realism. modernism, and activism to result in meaningful music that leverages his ability to tell touching stories and wield powerful sounds. Also prominent in his music is his roots in different cultures around the world."

- Cultural Custodian

Nigeria was under a military dictatorship then, however fast forwarding to SXSW – Baba explained that some things had not changed for the young democratic nation as he performed his 2nd single called ‘Ikoyi Boy’. A socially conscious song laced with gratitude, Baba spoke not only of his beginnings but also of the military intervention that led to the killings of some protesters on a march in the height of COVID in 2020. Exhibiting his flair for social justice and conscious messaging, coupled with saxophone playing, keyboard playing, rapping, singing and dancing – a world of opportunities opened up for Baba. His music videos started airing on cable networks like BET&MTV, his single ‘Ikoyi Boy’ won an award for best Afrobeat/Afropop song at the Hollywood Independent Music Awards – and he started getting a steady stream of bookings.

Coming from a long line of musicians and community servers, it is no surprise that Baba’s last EP is full of songs with conscious messaging like Yawa – which talks about racism, Cool it down that talks about mental health issues, ‘Yes Sir’ that talks about social media not being real life. When asked about what his plans are for 2023 and beyond, Baba explains that he will continue to put out music that serves the greater good.

follow Babakuboye on social networks