Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy has sparked debate after revealing that he was not directly inspired by Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, despite acknowledging the legend’s influence on his music journey.
In a recent conversation with tennis icon Roger Federer, Burna Boy reflected on the albums that shaped his childhood, listing Joe’s R&B record, Lil Wayne’s Tha Carter III, and Tupac’s Makaveli among his earliest musical experiences. He noted that his first album was a gift from his parents on his 10th birthday, while Fela’s records came from his grandfather, Benson Idonije, who was Fela’s first manager.
“Fela was a big influence on me,” Burna Boy admitted, but when Federer asked which album had the biggest impact, he replied, “Honestly, none”.
The statement has stirred reactions online, with many fans surprised by the claim, especially given Burna Boy’s frequent sampling of Fela’s music and themes in hits like Ye, My Money, My Baby, and Gbona. His stage performances, political commentary, and Afrobeat-infused sound have often drawn comparisons to Fela’s legacy.
Also Read: Port Harcourt Content Creator MC Dave Ties The Knot
While some critics view the comment as dismissive, others argue that Burna Boy is simply asserting his artistic independence and redefining what influence means in his creative process.
The interview also touched on Burna’s love for football, his admiration for players like JJ Okocha and Victor Osimhen, and his playful jab at Nigeria’s national team, the Super Eagles.
As one of Africa’s most prominent music exports, Burna Boy continues to challenge expectations, both musically and personally.
