Tony Allen

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Born 12 August 1940.

Nigerian-born drummer and composer

Tony Allen Philip Ryalls/Redferns

Biography

Tony Oladipo Allen (born 12 August 1940 in Lagos, Nigeria) is a Nigerian drummer, composer and songwriter who currently lives and works in Paris. He is currently writing his autobiography "Tony Allen: Master Drummer of Afrobeat" with author/musician Michael E. Veal, who has previously written a comprehensive biography of Fela Kuti.[citation needed]

As drummer and musical director of Fela Anikulapo Kuti's band Africa 70 from 1968 to 1979, Tony Allen was one of the primary co-founders of the genre of Afrobeat music. Fela once stated that, "without Tony Allen, there would be no Afrobeat." He has also been described by Brian Eno as "perhaps the greatest drummer who has ever lived."

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    It’s business as usual and business, as usual, is pretty damn good.

  2. Eager Hands And Restless Feet: Best Of 2006

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    Collection of afrobeat masterdrummer's solo recordings. Rare and funky.

  3. Lagos No Shaking 2006

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    Reviewed by Martin Longley

    Manages to harness the rugged grit of Lagos, whilst simultaneously presenting Allen's...

  4. Home Cooking

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    Reviewed by John Armstrong

    Master Nigerian drummer and Afrobeat powerhouse returns with new album of diverse styles.

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