Fújì music, a vibrant and socially conscious genre from Nigeria, takes center stage in a new documentary by Professor Saheed Aderinto of Florida International University. The film delves into the life and legacy of Síkírù Àyìndé Barrister, the musician who pioneered fújì in the 1970s.
Fújì’s roots lie in wéré, a seasonal Islamic performance during Ramadan. Barrister transformed this tradition into a year-round, secular music genre, drawing influences from various established styles like juju and Afrobeat. The result was a powerful and complex sound that resonated across social classes, becoming a staple of the Nigerian soundscape by the mid-1980s.
Today, fújì remains a dominant force in Yoruba music, influencing contemporary Afrobeats artists like Olamide. From bustling diaspora communities to intimate gatherings within Nigeria, fújì continues to captivate audiences with its dynamic rhythms and relatable themes.
The documentary explores the genre’s enduring appeal. Aderinto explains how fújì serves as a cultural touchstone, a way for people to connect with their heritage and navigate life’s challenges. The film also sheds light on Barrister’s own story, a fascinating journey marked by political commentary, social critique, and artistic innovation.
Watch First Episode Below
