Made Kuti Releases Introspective Second Album, 'Chapter 1: Where Does Happiness Come From?'

Lagos, Nigeria - Grammy-nominated Afrobeat artist Made Kuti has released his second album, 'Chapter 1: Where Does Happiness Come From?,' a project delving into themes of personal growth, social consciousness, and the challenges facing young Nigerians. Released three years after his debut, the album marks a departure towards inward reflection while maintaining Kuti's signature Afrobeat sound and socially conscious lyrics.

A Call to Introspection and Collective Responsibility

Unlike his debut album, which directly tackled issues like corruption and police brutality, 'Chapter 1: Where Does Happiness Come From?' encourages listeners to look inward. Each track serves as a meditation on individual and collective responsibility, posing the fundamental question of where true happiness originates. The album urges a reconnection with core values and a re-evaluation of what constitutes progress in a rapidly changing world.

"This album isn't just a collection of songs; it's an invitation to a dialogue," says music critic Nkechi Eze, who specializes in contemporary African music. "Made Kuti is using his platform to encourage a deeper engagement with ourselves and our communities. He's not just pointing out problems; he's prompting us to consider solutions from a personal level."

Following in the Footsteps of Afrobeat Legacy

Made Kuti's musical journey is deeply intertwined with the legacy of his grandfather, Fela Kuti, the pioneer of Afrobeat. His father, Femi Kuti, is also a renowned Afrobeat artist. Made's debut album, 'For(e)word: A Modern Afrobeat Manifesto,' released in 2022 as part of a joint album 'Legacy+' with his father's 'Stop the Hate,' earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album. This nomination solidified his position as a leading voice in the new generation of Afrobeat artists.

Afrobeat, originating in Nigeria in the 1960s, is characterized by its fusion of West African musical styles with American funk and jazz, often incorporating politically charged lyrics. It served as a powerful voice against corruption and social injustice during its inception and continues to be a vehicle for social commentary by artists like Made Kuti.

The Evolution of Made Kuti's Sound

While 'For(e)word: A Modern Afrobeat Manifesto' directly addressed socio-political issues, 'Chapter 1: Where Does Happiness Come From?' takes a more introspective approach. This shift reflects a maturation in Kuti's artistry, according to Professor Adebayo Williams, a cultural studies expert at the University of Lagos. "Made is exploring the internal landscape, acknowledging that external change is often preceded by internal transformation. He's not abandoning the social commentary that defines Afrobeat, but he's adding a layer of personal reflection that resonates deeply with his generation."

The album's instrumentation remains firmly rooted in Afrobeat, featuring complex polyrhythms, driving basslines, and vibrant horn arrangements. However, there's a noticeable emphasis on melody and lyrical storytelling, creating a more accessible entry point for listeners unfamiliar with the genre.

Album Launch and Future Plans

The album release was celebrated with an exclusive listening party at the iconic Afrikan Shrine in Lagos on Sunday, July 27, 2025. The Afrikan Shrine, founded by Fela Kuti, has historically served as a hub for Afrobeat music and a space for social and political discourse.

The album is available on all major streaming platforms. Made Kuti has not yet announced tour dates, but fans can expect live performances in the coming months.

A New Chapter for Afrobeat

'Chapter 1: Where Does Happiness Come From?' represents a significant step in Made Kuti's artistic journey and a valuable contribution to the ongoing evolution of Afrobeat music. By blending introspective lyrics with the genre's signature sound, Kuti is reaching a wider audience and inspiring a new generation to engage with social issues on a personal and collective level.