WASHINGTON - Hip-hop artist Jay-Z and actor Will Smith are said to be among the investors of a new musical about the life of revered African world music star Fela Kuti.

Both stars have given Bill T. Jones’ Broadway production Fela a huge boost, a month before it is scheduled to hit the stage, reports Contactmusic.

The original version of the musical opened off-Broadway last year and starred Sahr Ngaujah, who will reprise his critically acclaimed role as Kuti.

Production on the rehearsals was halted recently due to financial concerns. (ANI)