Cassava Republic is set to release the re-publication of the biography of the undisputed King of Afro-beat, Fela: This Bitch of a Life written by Dr Carl Moore. With Nigeria celebrating its Golden Anniversary, it’s clear that there is no time more perfect to celebrate Fela Anikulapo Kuti, one of the breed of those who shaped the social, political and musical landscape of the country.

The book, first published in 1982, is the authorised biography of “Africa’s most important musical export”, as described by Africa Music. It touches on Fela’s early life, his education, the birth of his music and activism, and his struggles. Speaking on why he wrote the book, Dr Carlos Moore, a naturalised Jamaican says “I want each and every African to feel that s/he OWNS Fela; that his legacy must be defended as a vital part of the Pan-African dream”.

This new version, is the first on the African continent. According to the publisher, the book contains “remarkable never-before-seen content: a Preface by renowned Brazilian musician and statesman Gilberto Gil, a Prologue by Fela’s friend Lindsay Barrett, an introduction and a moving epilogue by Carlos Moore, written specially for this edition and discography,” including other all-new features. Bibi Bakare-Yusuf, Cassava republic’s Publishing Director says “we are very excited to make Carlos Moore’s classic and illuminating biography of Fela Kuti available for the first time on the continent. We also believe that everyone interested in African music and socio-political history will not want to miss the opportunity to own a copy of this particular edition.”

There will be a book tour from Saturday 9th October to Saturday 16th October to celebrate the new edition of the Fela: This Bitch of a Life. The tour provides the opportunity to purchase a signed copy of this collector’s item before it is released to the public next year.

Find more about the book and the tour schedule on www.cassavarepublic.biz

Oluwapelumi