Grammy-winning Nigerian superstar, Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has sparked fresh debate across social media after declaring that Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, is the only African artist greater than him.
During a recent livestream chat with popular Australian streamer, PlayboyMax, the Last Last hitmaker confidently asserted his place in African music history, crediting Fela as the ultimate pioneer while positioning himself right next in line.
“He [Fela Kuti] is the king. He is the only one [African artist] who is greater than me. He is the only one,” Burna Boy said, proudly reaffirming his status as a global icon.
The statement has since ignited mixed reactions among fans and critics. While some hailed Burna Boy’s confidence and acknowledged his global impact, others accused him of arrogance, insisting that many African legends including Angelique Kidjo, Youssou N’Dour, Miriam Makeba, and King Sunny Ade also deserve recognition.
Burna Boy, known for blending Fela’s Afrobeat roots with contemporary sounds of Afrofusion, has often drawn comparisons to the late icon. Over the years, he has repeatedly paid homage to Fela’s influence on his artistry and stage performance, citing him as his greatest inspiration.
Since his global breakout with Ye in 2018, Burna Boy has consistently redefined African music on the world stage, selling out stadiums, winning a Grammy, and earning multiple international nominations. His albums, including African Giant, Twice As Tall, and I Told Them, have positioned him as one of the continent’s most accomplished exports.
Still, Burna Boy’s latest declaration has reignited a long-running debate about who truly stands atop Africa’s music legacy with many agreeing that, love him or hate him, Burna Boy’s confidence is part of what makes him one of Africa’s most dominant voices of the modern era.
