Femi Kuti and The Positive Force - *All photos by Goody James*

Anyone who is familiar with Afrobeat should know that Femi Kuti is a part of the genre’s royal family. His father, Fela Kuti, originated the style in the 60s. Femi picked up the saxophone at the age of 15 and soon joined his father’s band. In 1986, he formed his own band, Positive Force, which he continues to lead today. Throughout his career, Femi Kuti has not only carried the torch for Afrobeat but also expanded upon the genre by incorporating other influences and collaborating with artists like D’Angelo, Yasiin Bey (formerly Mos Def), and Thievery Corporation.

Kuti, who is also the grandson of women’s rights activist Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, is outspoken about political corruption and various social issues, both in his lyrics and offstage. Earlier this year, he released his newest album, “Journey Through Life,” which is a call for both introspection and outward action. Femi Kuti and The Positive Force are currently wrapping up their summer tour, dubbed the “Politics Don Expose Them Tour.” On August 7, the group stopped in Solana Beach, California, and performed at the legendary Belly Up.

Madame Gandhi - *All photos by Goody James*

Musician and activist Madame Gandhi kicked off the night. Accompanied by a saxophonist, percussionist, and syncopated electronic beats, Gandhi made sure the dance floor was warm before Kuti took the stage. Her percussive tunes, infectious energy, and socially conscious lyrics made Madame Gandhi a perfect opening act for Femi Kuti and The Positive Force. In the middle of her set, Gandhi called attention to misogyny in popular music. “There’s so much casual misogyny on the airwaves,” she said. “I’m at the gym trying to get a good, humble workout in, and I’m thinking, ‘I shouldn’t have to turn up to the sound of my own oppression.’”

Before Femi Kuti took the stage, Positive Force came out and started an instrumental jam. Anticipation grew as the energy built. Finally, Kuti jumped to the front of the stage wearing an orange suit and sandals. He danced, sang, and directed the band with the same energy throughout the entire set. His bright orange shirt glistened with sweat after just a few songs.

The backup singers in Positive Force, who also dance and play percussion, are integral to the spirit of the band’s performance. To see Femi Kuti in concert is a truly unique experience. The entire venue seemed to pulse with the tempo of each song, and the crowd engaged in enthusiastic call-and-response chants throughout the night.

The group performed a selection of songs from across Kuti’s catalog, including cuts from the new album. “Work On Myself” is a particularly striking song, which offers a bit of wisdom to those who recognize that we are living through dark times. The lyrics read, “Maybe we fit no change the world / But we can change the world within us / I’m going to work on myself / And bring out the very very best.”

Kuti’s political messages are also universal. He speculated in between songs, “Most people just want to live in peace. There’s just one problem: government and their policies.” For an immersive and inspirational experience, check out Femi Kuti and The Positive Force the next time they come to your town. They will be wrapping up the Politics Don Expose Them Tour on August 16, at The Neptune in Seattle. Prior to that, they will be at Revolution Hall in Portland, Oregon, on August 15, and The Big Room in Chico, California on August 14.