During an appearance on the Tea With Tay Podcast, Made discussed the late icon’s financial lifestyle, explaining that Fela’s unwavering dedication to his beliefs and the well-being of those around him often came at a significant personal cost.
In his own words, he remarked, “He was broke. Fela died poor”. Made added, “Fela was the kind of person that when he made a bunch of cash, he had the kind of money that could have bought the whole of Pepple Street. But he will come back from a show in Kalakuta, open a box of money and say anybody that needs take.”
According to Made, there were times when Fela earned enough money to make major property acquisitions, such as being able to buy an entire street. However, rather than saving or investing it, he would return from performances and distribute the money among those in need, living communally and selflessly.
Fela’s financial choices reflected his values. He avoided materialism, rejected personal luxury, and shared his resources with the many individuals who lived and worked with him in the Kalakuta Republic. Though he achieved international acclaim for his music and activism, his consistent generosity, frequent clashes with the Nigerian government, and refusal to commercialize his work left him financially strained toward the end of his life.
Made’s reflections underscore that Fela’s enduring legacy is not rooted in wealth, but in the impact of his music, activism, and ideological commitment. Fela prioritized the collective good over personal gain, dedicating his money, energy, and time to the people and the messages he championed.
Today, Fela is remembered and celebrated worldwide. His legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren, who continue to promote Afrobeat and advocate for social consciousness.
Watch the video from stamp time 39:55 to 40:18