Africa 70

Africa 70 was the backing band formed in Nigeria around 1970 by Fela Kuti and used as his primary ensemble during that period. The group played a central role in the development of Afrobeat, blending West African highlife with American funk and jazz, and was known for extended instrumental vamps, tight horn arrangements, layered percussion and call-and-response vocals that supported Fela's politically charged songs. The band’s rhythmic foundation and long grooves, anchored by drummer Tony Allen, were key elements of its distinctive sound.