kuti mangoes

Kuti Mangoes: A Sweet and Spicy Musical Journey

Kuti mangoes, the tropical fruit synonymous with a vibrant yellow hue and an intensely sweet and tangy flavour, have surprisingly inspired a musical genre. Well, not quite. But the name “Kuti Mangoes” has become a playful moniker for a unique blend of musical styles that emerged in the bustling streets of Lagos, Nigeria, in the late 20th century.

The Genesis of Kuti Mangoes:

Imagine a melting pot of genres – Afrobeat, Highlife, Juju, and a dash of Western pop thrown in for good measure. This fusion, born from the energetic rhythm of Lagos street life, is what we fondly call “Kuti Mangoes.” While the origins of the term remain shrouded in the hazy memories of Lagos nights, it’s believed to have started as a playful jab at musicians who borrowed heavily from different genres, creating a vibrant, eclectic sound.

The Musical Mangoes:

The “Kuti Mangoes” movement doesn’t have a strict set of rules. Instead, it’s a philosophy of musical exploration, drawing inspiration from a variety of sources and creating something entirely new. Think of it as a musical fruit salad, where each ingredient adds its own unique flavour to the mix.

Funny Facts and Mangoes:

• Mango Mania: The iconic “Mango Groove” band, a pioneer of the Kuti Mangoes sound, actually got its name from a misheard lyric in a popular Afrobeat song. The original line was “mango grove,” but the band members, in their youthful exuberance, interpreted it as “mango groove,” and the rest is history.
• The Mango-Shaped Guitar: Legend has it that a renowned Kuti Mangoes musician, Fela Kuti’s cousin, once carved a guitar in the shape of a mango. This guitar, dubbed “The Mango,” became a symbol of the genre’s playful and unconventional spirit.
• The Mango Dance: The signature dance move of the Kuti Mangoes movement is the “Mango Shake,” a vibrant and energetic dance that mimics the movement of a mango falling from a tree. The dance became so popular that it even found its way into a popular Nigerian film, “The Mango King.”

The Legacy of Kuti Mangoes:

While the term “Kuti Mangoes” might not be widely known outside of Nigeria, its influence is undeniable. This unique blend of music has inspired countless musicians and continues to evolve, incorporating new sounds and influences. It stands as a testament to the boundless creativity of Nigerian music and the power of playful exploration.

So, next time you enjoy a juicy mango, remember the vibrant and playful legacy of “Kuti Mangoes,” a musical genre that embodies the sweet and spicy spirit of Lagos life.