The iconic 1976 album “Zombie” by the legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has been posthumously recognized with an induction into the 2025 Grammy Hall of Fame. This accolade honors both the artist and his family, acknowledging works from the past 25 years rather than focusing solely on contemporary releases. Nearly 30 years after his passing, Fela becomes the first Nigerian artist to achieve this prestigious recognition.

The Recording Academy, which oversees the Grammy Awards, shared the news of this induction as part of this year’s Hall of Fame selections. Unlike other Grammy categories, the Hall of Fame highlights recordings that possess significant historical or qualitative value, celebrating those that have stood the test of time.

Fela’s “Zombie,” known for its sharp socio-political commentary on the Nigerian military regime, was initially released in Nigeria by Coconut Records in 1976 and later in the UK by Creole Records in 1977. The album features powerful tracks such as “Zombie,” “Mister Follow Follow,” “Observation is No Crime,” and “Mistake,” the latter recorded live at the Berlin Jazz Festival in 1978, solidifying its reputation as a bold protest anthem.

With this induction, “Zombie” joins the ranks of other esteemed musical works previously honored in the Grammy Hall of Fame, including albums by Jay-Z, Michael Jackson, Santana, and Cat Stevens. Fela’s eldest son, Femi, took to X to announce the recognition and expressed gratitude to the Grammy organizers on behalf of his late father.