Nigerian musician Seun Kuti has weighed in on the debate surrounding privilege and family influence, saying it is unrealistic to deny the impact a person’s background can have on their life and career.
Addressing critics who label him a “nepo baby” because of his famous lineage, Seun argued that family connections often play a role in shaping opportunities and outcomes. He added that the same reality applied to his late father, Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti.
“You will see people online calling me a nepo baby, but even Fela Kuti, if he wasn’t Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’s son, he wouldn’t have been Fela. Nothing comes from nothing.”
While acknowledging the advantages that may come with being born into a well-known family, Seun stressed that success ultimately depends on individual effort and talent.
“I might be a nepo baby, but my father is not on stage playing my sax for me,” he said.
According to the singer, a respected family name can create opportunities, but it cannot replace hard work or guarantee achievement. He maintained that everyone must still prove themselves and put in the work required to succeed.
