Tony Allen (1940–2020) was a pioneering Nigerian-Ghanaian drummer, composer, and songwriter who helped create Afrobeat alongside Fela Kuti as the drummer and musical director of the legendary Africa 70 band. Regarded as one of the greatest drummers of all time, Allen later lived in Paris and collaborated with artists such as Damon Albarn on projects like Gorillaz, The Good the Bad and the Queen, and Rocket Juice and the Moon. His innovative rhythms and influence continue to shape contemporary music worldwide.