Burna Boy Declares Himself Second-Greatest African Musician After Fela Kuti

Burna Boy

Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy has stirred conversations online after declaring himself the second-greatest African musician of all time, naming only Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti as greater.

The self-acclaimed “African Giant” made the bold statement during a casual livestream session with Australian influencer Playboymax.

“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 confidently stated.

His claim quickly sparked reactions across social media. While many applauded his confidence and achievements, others criticized the remark as dismissive of other African legends who helped shape the continent’s musical history.

Burna Boy, born Damini Ogulu, has nonetheless earned his place among Africa’s most influential musicians. His 2020 album Twice as Tall won the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album, making him the first Nigerian artist to win in that category.

He has also achieved several global milestones, including headlining Madison Square Garden, selling out London’s O2 Arena, and surpassing four billion streams worldwide.

With timeless hits such as “Ye,” “On the Low,” and “Last Last,” Burna Boy continues to dominate international stages and solidify his influence in the modern Afrobeat movement.