The Pioneering Nigerian drummer Tony Allen, a co-founder of the Afrobeat musical genre, died in Paris yesterday 30th April, aged 79.  Eric Trosset broke the news on NPR radio confirming the Afrobeat legend had died of a heart attack and the death was not linked to coronavirus.

Tony Allen was the drummer and musical director of musician Fela Kuti’s famous band Africa ’70 in the 1960-70s.  He was highly regarded by Fela and others within the industry, Fela once said: “without Tony Allen, there would be no Afrobeat”.

Fans and colleagues in the industry have all taken to social media to share their love and respect to the Master Drummer of Afrobeat.  REST IN POWER ✊????