Global music sensation and Port Harcourt-born superstar, Burna Boy, has publicly apologized for controversial comments he made about Afrobeats, admitting that he now understands the value of the genre and its unifying identity.
In 2023, the Grammy-winning artist stirred controversy after stating in an Apple Music interview that Afrobeats “lacks substance” and that many artists in the genre had “almost no real-life experiences.” The comments sparked backlash across Africa and the diaspora.
However, in a recent conversation with BBC 1Xtra’s Eddie Kadi, Burna Boy—real name Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu—admitted that the reaction helped him see things differently.
“I got the point of the Afrobeats tag in that moment,” he said. “I totally get it and I apologise for that confusion.”
He attributed his earlier comments to being in a “dark place mentally” and said he wasn’t in the best state of mind when he made those statements.
Now, the African Giant says he fully embraces the Afrobeats label, even leaning into it on his latest album, No Sign of Weakness, released last week.
“I learnt to embrace the fact that I will always be different,” he said. “I’m not going to be the favourite but I’m going to be the best.”
Beyond the album, Burna Boy recently performed at the Wireless Festival and emphasized that live performance remains his biggest passion. Inspired by legendary acts like The Rolling Stones and Coldplay, he said, “I want to be able to do this until I die.”
He also revealed an exciting collaboration with rock legend Mick Jagger on a new track titled “Empty Chairs.” Describing the experience as “one of the best” of his career, Burna said the Rolling Stones frontman deeply connected with the song’s message.
Burna Boy is currently on a European and North American tour, which will run until the end of the year, continuing to wave the Afrobeats flag on global stages.
Based on reporting by the BBC. Edited for clarity and style.
