Femi Kuti lauded as best World Music artist

 Nigeria's Afrobeat singer Femi Kuti was named Best Artist in Songlines magazine's annual world music awards, winning praise for dynamic songs that railed against corruption and repression in Africa.

Kuti had stepped out of the shadow of his father, the legendary Fela Kuti, with his album "Africa for Africa," Songlines said.

"Songs like "Politics in Africa," "Can't Buy Me" and "Bad Government" all serve to underline his utter disdain for the corrupt politicians of his native Nigeria and other African nations -- a theme that continues to be pertinent today with events happening across North Africa and Ivory Coast," it said.

The nominees are selected Songlines readers, with the final decision made by the magazine's editors.

songlines publisher Simon Broughton Speaks of Femi Kuti, : "This album is very angry and it really sounds like Lagos -- quite rough at the edges. And the message is Africa has to look after itself."

Reuters