Two of Fela Kuti’s best-known albums turn fifty this year, and Partisan Records is marking the occasion with new vinyl editions of each. The announcement comes just ahead of Felabration, the annual celebration of the Afrobeat pioneer’s work.
Zombie gets a new look from Denim Tears
The first release is Zombie, whose title track mocked Nigeria’s military and the government it served. Designer Tremaine Emory of Denim Tears has reworked the packaging and made a matching T-shirt. Lemi Ghariokwu’s original cover art stays in place, and Emory adds photographs of the New Afrika Shrine taken by Bolaji Alonge.
The vinyl is limited to 1,000 copies and went on sale on October 9. Emory said in a press statement that he was honored to take part. He called Fela one of the most inspiring artists in any field and said the songs still feel as relevant today as when they were recorded.
Expensive Shit arrives on gold vinyl on November 20
Expensive Shit follows on November 20, with design by Tarin Karimbux. According to the label, it is pressed on gold nugget vinyl and sits in a trifold jacket that draws on the original sleeve. The jacket also carries newly licensed photographs by Femi Bankole Osunla and John Collins. A dossier envelope holds a poster, a print and a newspaper clipping, and a metallic gold foil band wraps the set.
A busy stretch for Fela’s legacy
The reissues come after Fela’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. He also became the first African artist to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Grammys.
Frequently asked questions
When does the Zombie 50th anniversary vinyl come out?
It was released on October 9, 2026, in a run of 1,000 copies.
When is the Expensive Shit 50th anniversary edition released?
November 20, 2026, on gold nugget vinyl.
Who designed the new packaging?
Tremaine Emory of Denim Tears designed Zombie, and Tarin Karimbux designed Expensive Shit.
Where can fans pre-order?
Through Partisan Records and its linked store pages.
