Afrobeats Star Adekunle Gold Blends Tradition and Innovation on 'Fuji' Album

In October 2025, Afrobeats star Adekunle Gold released his latest album 'Fuji', which pays homage to Nigeria's iconic Fuji music genre. Gold, who has been at the forefront of the Afrobeats movement, sought to highlight the rich musical heritage that has influenced his sound.

The album's release was marked by a special concert at Spotify's Lagos pop-up Greasy Tunes Café, where Gold gave an electric performance of the new tracks. The highlight of the night came when disabled Fuji legend Yinka Ayefele unexpectedly joined Gold on stage, performing their collaborative song "Many People" together. The moment was a powerful display of the enduring legacy of Fuji music and the way Afrobeats artists are reinventing traditional Nigerian sounds for a global audience.

Fuji, a distinct genre from Nigeria's Yoruba ethnic group, is known for its complex, fast-paced percussion and call-and-response vocals. While Afrobeats has long drawn inspiration from Fuji, Gold's album showcases how contemporary artists are blending these traditional elements with R&B, hip-hop, and other global influences. The result is a fresh, innovative take on a beloved Nigerian musical tradition.