Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Femi Kuti performs on stage with his children

Femi Kuti performing with sons Ayomide and Tunmise and daughter Demilade
 Femi Kuti has been playing at the New Afrika Shrine with his young children. Just like his first son Omorinmade (a.k.a Made) who is now studying classical music in the UK, when he was much younger, Ayomide, Tunmise and his daughter Demilade have been going on stage with their father in recent times.

During his Thursday evening rehearsals at the Shrine, the boys mimic every move that their legendary father makes; they sing along with him on make-believe microphones, tap on the keyboard alongside and also pick up imaginary trumpets when he blows.

Femi described Ayomide as "just like Fela, too troublesome" in my interview with him last year. He also said Tunmise is learning to be "a rascal" from Ayomide. From what I've seen so far, these are two kids who look up to their father so much and are already looking to step into his shoes.

The kids are already warming into the celebrity role that their father enjoys as they regularly have to greet revelers and admirers with fist bumps just like their father does. The Kuti family looks assured of another generation of musical torch bearers.