Lenny Kravitz to produce new Seun Kuti and Egypt 80 album

Seun Kuti confirmed the news on social media this week, saying that Kravitz will work on the project with Sodi Marciszewer, who was Fela Kuti’s original producer. 

“Lenny Kravitz, known for his eclectic musical style and multi-instrumental talent, brings a fresh perspective to the project,” a statement confirming the collaboration says. “His involvement is expected to introduce new elements to the Afrobeat sound, while staying true to its roots. Sodi Marciszewer, who played a pivotal role in shaping Fela Kuti’s iconic sound, adds a layer of authenticity and continuity to the project. His deep understanding of Afrobeat’s intricate rhythms and textures ensures that the new album will resonate with long-time fans and new listeners alike.”

After its release, the new LP will be the band’s first collection since 2022’s African Dreams EP with hip hop legend Black Thought. The band is behind multiple other albums including Many Things (2008), From Africa With Fury: Rise (2011), A Long Way to the Beginning (2014), Black Times (2018) and Night Dreamer Direct to Disc Sessions (2019). 

Seun Kuti, the youngest son of Fela Kuti, became the bandleader of Egypt 80 when he was just 14 years old. The group includes members from Fela’s original line-up and is characterised by the blend of West African rhythms with American funk and jazz and politically charged social commentary. In 2019, Black Times was nominated for a Grammy in the Best World Music Album category.

Meanwhile, Seun Kuti and Egypt 80 will tour North America from 8 June to 27 July. The tour includes 18 dates, with free performances in Brooklyn and Chicago. The band will join The Soul Rebels in San Diego and Los Angeles and open for the Red Hot Chili Peppers in Toronto and Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 North America 2024 tour dates:

• 8 June: Burlington, VT – Burlington Discover Jazz Festival
• 9 June: Portland, ME – Portland House of Music
• 11 June: Pembroke, MA – Soundcheck Studios
• 12 June: Bridgeport, CT – Park City Music Hall
• 14 June: San Diego, CA – Music Box*
• 16 June: Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival*
• 12 July: North Adams, MA – Mass
• 13 July: Brooklyn, NY – Bric Celebrate Brooklyn
• 15 July: Chicago, IL – Millennium Park Summer Music Series
• 17 July: Toronto, ON – Budweiser Stage
• 18 July: San Francisco, CA – SFJAZZ Center Miner Auditorium
• 19 July: San Francisco, CA – SFJAZZ Center Miner Auditorium
• 20 July: Denver, CO – Levitt Pavillion
• 22 July: Cuyahoga Falls, OH – Blossom Music Center
• 23 July: Detroit, MI – The Shelter
• 24 July: Kalamazoo, MI – Bell's Eccentric Cafe
• 26 July: Minneapolis, MN – Fine Line
• 28 July: Nelsonville, OH – Nelsonville Music Festival

* Special guest for The Soul Rebels