A US-based Nigerian academic specializing in History and African Diaspora Studies, Saheed Aderinto, is poised to unveil his documentary titled ‘Women of Fuji’. This film sheds light on the essential roles that women have played within the Fuji music genre since its rise to fame in the 1970s.
The documentary was produced across multiple locations including Nigeria, the United States, London, Belgium, Ghana, and Italy. It is scheduled to premiere on March 8 at the J. Randle Center for Yoruba Culture and History, located at Onikan Roundabout, Lagos Island.
This documentary marks the second episode of the ongoing series known as ‘The Fuji Documentary’. The inaugural episode, which focused on the renowned Fuji vocalist Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, premiered in February 2024.
Professor Aderinto elaborated on the documentary, indicating that it aims to uncover the often overlooked yet critical roles women have played in advancing Fuji music. He emphasized that the narrative brings to light the contributions of many female figures who, despite their significance, remain largely unrecognized in the history of the genre.
"In this installment of The Fuji Documentary, we examine the role of women in Fuji music. This genre transcends traditional entertainment, intertwining with various aspects of African cultures that represent a broad spectrum of identities," he stated.
The documentary has received commendable feedback from both critics and scholars, with many recognizing its emotional depth and relevance to contemporary societal issues.
Professor Mojubaolu Olufunke Okome from Brooklyn College noted, "The film provides profound insight into both historical significance and contemporary relevance. It takes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating musicology, gender studies, and cultural history to enhance our understanding of the dynamics of power, creativity, and exclusion within artistic traditions."
She further remarked, "This work transcends the conventional music documentary format, becoming a reclamation effort that demands recognition of women as leading contributors rather than mere muses or background figures in the evolution of Fuji music."
Teresa Barnes, an academic at the University of Illinois, praised the documentary as a compelling work, insisting that it is essential viewing. Meanwhile, Abimbola Adelakun, an associate professor at the University of Chicago, hailed the project as a fitting tribute to women who have impacted music across generations.
As featured women in the film include Alake Alasela, who released her inaugural Fuji album under Lanrewaju Adepoju Records—a significant achievement for women in the genre—among others like Karimotu Aduke, Mutiat Amope, Musili Arike, Asisatu Amope, and Muinat Ejide, also showcasing contributions from emerging talents.
The documentary series has concentrated on mirroring the success trajectories of Fuji music, highlighting its ongoing influence since the 1960s. The first episode celebrates Sikiru Ayinde Barrister and has had screenings across various academic and cultural settings globally before its release on YouTube in September 2025.
Today, Fuji is acknowledged as the most influential of Yoruba musical traditions, profoundly affecting various other genres including Afrobeats, hip-hop, and gospel music.
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