British actor Andrew Garfield has revealed that the music and activism of Nigerian Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti influenced his portrayal of Peter Parker in The Amazing Spider-Man films.
Garfield made the disclosure while discussing how music helps him prepare for acting roles.
The Oscar-nominated actor said he creates playlists for the characters he portrays, using music to understand their personalities, emotions and physical movements.
According to him, Fela’s music became particularly useful while preparing to play Spider-Man.
“There was something about the sound and the rhythm that was really useful to me for that character,” Garfield said.
He explained that listening to Fela helped him develop a stronger connection with his body, which influenced how he approached Spider-Man’s movements and physical presence while wearing the superhero suit.
Garfield also said he was drawn to Fela’s reputation as a revolutionary and his pursuit of justice, qualities he sought to reflect in his interpretation of Spider-Man.
“There was something about suddenly being in touch with the body but also just seeking justice because obviously he was a revolutionary figure,” he said.
The actor added that he wanted to channel some of the power he associated with Fela into Spider-Man’s character.
Garfield’s comments are not the first time he has spoken about Fela’s influence on his performance. In a 2012 interview, he similarly credited the Nigerian musician’s work with helping him find the confidence and physical freedom needed for the role.
The revelation has resurfaced following Garfield’s appearance on The Track Star Podcast, where he discussed the role of music in developing his characters. Fela Kuti’s “Water No Get Enemy” was also among the songs featured during the episode.
Fela Kuti, who pioneered Afrobeat, was renowned for combining music with social and political criticism. His activism and opposition to political authority made him one of Nigeria’s most influential cultural figures.
Garfield played Peter Parker in The Amazing Spider-Man (2012) and its 2014 sequel, The Amazing Spider-Man 2.
