Lekan Animashaun, popularly known as Baba Ani, the veteran saxophonist and former manager of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti, has spoken about aging, his lifestyle and his continued involvement in preserving Fela’s musical legacy.
Speaking during an interview from 1:12 on The Podcast Network on Thursday, September 24, 2026, Baba Ani acknowledged that age has affected his energy but said he remains grateful to still be moving forward.
“Well, a little bit tired. A little bit,” Baba Ani shared when asked how he feels. “But I’m still, you know, facing every day.”
The veteran musician also reflected on his younger years, when performing and spending nights at clubs were part of his routine. He admitted that his the same nightlife routine, Baba Ani said he still enjoys relaxing at home and sharing lifestyle has changed significantly with age.
“I used to do this thing 20 years ago, but I can’t do it now,” he said.
Asked whether he misses going out at night, Baba Ani replied: “Ah yes, you know, going out every time, going to nightclubs… but not as before.”
Although he no longer maintains the same nightlife routine, Baba Ani said he still enjoys relaxing at home and sharing simple moments with friends and neighbors.
“Do I still drink stouts? Oh yes. Even I have a bottle waiting for me at home,” Baba Ani revealed. “You know, my wife has a shop in front of my house. One of the neighbors just came and bought two bottles for me. I took one, so one is still in the freezer waiting.”
Beyond his personal life, Baba Ani also discussed his role in keeping Fela’s Egypt 80 band together after the Afrobeat pioneer’s death.
He revealed that he continued performing with the band for decades while mentoring Fela’s youngest son, Seun Kuti, as he took on the responsibility of carrying forward the group’s legacy.
“Then after that, 32 years after his (Fela Kuti ) death, I continued playing with the band, mentoring Oluseun Anikulapo Kuti,” Baba Ani stated.
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