Tony Allen, the energetic Afrobeat drummer who played with Fela Kuti, died on April 30th. With Kuti, Tony Allen spearheaded the formation of the entire genre of Afrobeat. The rhythms that Allen contributed created a lasting impact that still ripples out today. Their band, Africa ’70, took brave political stances against the Nigerian government. On “Zombie” in particular, they focused their wrath on the Nigerian military. Soldiers are compared to zombies, bodies without agency that will do whatever they are told. The government was so threatened by this track that they attacked Kuti’s commune and killed his mother. Despite these horrifying circumstances, this did nothing to silence Africa ’70.
Tony Allen’s skills are fully apparent on “Zombie,” with a driving rhythm that keeps the energy up for the more than twelve minute song length. He went on to have an illustrious career of his own, continuing to touch on social issues. His courage and abilities will be sorely missed.
Freeing Music 