London Scene (1971):

To understand where Fela’s musical quest began, you have to start with his education at London’s Trinity College School of Music. While his family had sent him to England to study medicine, Fela had more musical aspirations. After finishing school, Fela returned to Nigeria and with his band Koola Lobitios and his star status began to flourish in his native land, fusing the sounds of Jazz and Funk with the traditional African music he had been raise on. EMI, his label at the time, saw the true power of his musical creation, which he termed “afro-beat”, and brought Fela and his band back to London. The result was London Scene, Fela’s first release, recorded at Abby Road. While recording this album, Fela began his friendship with Cream drummer Ginger Baker, who plays uncredited on the track “Egbe Mio”. London Scene is the beginning of what would become Fela’s signature “Afrobeat” style and a great introduction to the man and his music.

Shakara (1972):

Shakara is a two-track release of 13-minute songs that showcase Fela’s satirical side. “Lady”, perhaps one of Fela’s most popular tracks, criticizes westernized African women who he felt had been corrupted by their embrace of the new feminist movement of the time. “Shakara” is another lyrically lambasting track that takes on braggarts and blowhards who boast false claims about their personal power and influence.