Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy has called on Nigerians to stop drawing comparisons between him and the late Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. Known for his impactful music that often touches on societal issues, Burna Boy has frequently been likened to Fela, whose revolutionary music and activism remain a cornerstone of Afrobeat history.
However, the artist, who refers to himself as “BIG7,” has made it clear that he does not appreciate such comparisons.
Burna Boy’s reaction comes amid recent criticisms stemming from his controversial detention of fellow musician Speed Darlington. The incident reportedly followed allegations of defamation against Burna Boy, leading to a heated public discourse about the boundaries of artistic expression and personal accountability.
In response to the ongoing criticisms and the persistent comparisons to Fela, Burna Boy took to his Instagram Story to express his frustrations. He emphasized that he is his own person, with a unique vision and approach, and urged his fans and critics alike to stop linking him to the legendary Afrobeat icon.
“Also, all that Burna Boy and Fela talk needs to die now. I’m not Fela; I’m BIG7,” Burna Boy wrote. “I’m all about positivity, peace, and prosperity, but honestly, I’d rather kill you than d!e for you.”
The bold statement sparked widespread reactions, with many fans and observers debating the artist’s stance and choice of words. While some praised Burna Boy for asserting his individuality, others criticized his remarks, particularly his comment about choosing to “kill” rather than “die” for Nigerians.
Burna Boy’s career has often been compared to Fela’s due to the similarities in their music styles and the socio-political themes they both explore. From his lyrical content to his stage performances, many have drawn parallels between the two artists. However, Burna Boy has consistently maintained that he is not trying to emulate Fela but instead is carving his own path in the global music scene.
The comparisons have been both a blessing and a challenge for Burna Boy. On one hand, they highlight the impact of his music and its resonance with audiences who value the fusion of Afrobeat with contemporary sounds. On the other hand, they create expectations that Burna Boy must navigate while staying true to his artistic identity.
The detention of Speed Darlington, which reignited the debates, has also raised questions about freedom of speech and the responsibilities of public figures. Critics argue that Burna Boy’s actions contradict the ethos of freedom and expression that Fela championed throughout his career. Fela, who used his music as a tool for activism, endured significant personal and professional sacrifices to amplify the voices of the oppressed.
For Burna Boy, the journey has been different. While his music addresses societal issues, he has also positioned himself as an artist focused on personal growth, positivity, and global recognition of African culture. His emphasis on “positivity, peace, and prosperity” underscores his desire to inspire and uplift his audience, albeit through a lens distinct from Fela’s radical activism.
Burna Boy’s rise to global fame has been meteoric, earning him accolades such as a Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album and collaborations with international stars. Despite the controversies that occasionally surround him, his music continues to break boundaries, introducing Afrobeat and African culture to new audiences worldwide.
As the debates around Burna Boy and Fela persist, it is essential to recognize the unique contributions of each artist to the music industry. While Fela’s legacy is rooted in his fearless activism and revolutionary music, Burna Boy’s journey is defined by his ability to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, creating a sound that resonates with diverse audiences.
The comparisons may be inevitable, given the cultural and musical impact of both artists, but Burna Boy’s call for individuality is a reminder that every artist’s journey is unique. His statement reflects a desire to move beyond the shadow of Fela’s legacy and to be celebrated for his own accomplishments and vision.
Whether or not the comparisons cease, Burna Boy’s influence on the global stage is undeniable. His music, characterized by its fusion of Afrobeat, reggae, dancehall, and pop, continues to elevate African sounds and stories, cementing his place as one of the continent’s most prominent cultural ambassadors.
In urging Nigerians to stop comparing him to Fela, Burna Boy invites fans to appreciate his artistry on its own terms. His music, while influenced by Afrobeat, represents a new era of creativity and expression, one that is uniquely his. By asserting his individuality, Burna Boy challenges the notion that artists must conform to existing molds, instead encouraging them to forge their own paths and define their legacies.
Burna Boy’s journey serves as a reminder of the power of music to transcend boundaries and inspire change. While his approach may differ from Fela’s, both artists share a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what African music can achieve on the global stage. In celebrating their unique contributions, fans can honor the richness and diversity of African music, recognizing that its strength lies in its ability to evolve and adapt while staying true to its roots.
As the conversation continues, Burna Boy’s message is clear: he is not Fela, nor is he trying to be. He is Burna Boy—BIG7—a voice for positivity, peace, and prosperity, charting his course in the ever-evolving world of music.
