It is indeed a fact that Burna Boy, Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, is a prominent Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his standing as the African Giant of Afrobeats. His rise to global prominence is a story of early ambition, a deep-rooted connection to African music, and a relentless drive to push boundaries.
During his formative years, he moved to London to further his education but continued to nurture his passion for music by forming a band and performing at local events. His experiences as a DJ and MC laid the foundation for the career that would eventually lead him to international stardom.
Here are some interesting facts about him that you may not know:
1. He started music early
Burna Boy began his musical career at the age of 10, using a music production software called Fruity Loops or FL Studio to create his songs before he moved to London for school. He also formed a band during his school years and performed at local events as a DJ and MC.
2. He wasn't always called Burna Boy
His initial musical moniker was Shotgun, which he later abandoned in favour of Burna Boy. During an interview with Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show, the singer disclosed, “When I was a kid, I used to draw comic books, I know I don’t look like it but I copied different superheroes like Spiderman, Superman and others. At a point I just wanted my own character, I wanted to be my own superhero where I could draw me as a superhero with the cape. I was trying to come up with a name and all I could think of was Burna Boy.”
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3. He was heavily influenced by Fela Kuti
His grandfather, Benson Idah, was a notable figure in the music industry, having managed the legendary Fela Kuti. This family connection deeply influenced Burna Boy's musical style and aspirations.
4. Burna Boy came from a well-off background
Contrary to his lyrics of overcoming hardship, Burna Boy was born into a wealthy family. His father owned a welding company, and his mother was successful in business and education. He attended private schools in Nigeria and studied media technology at the University of Sussex and media communications at Oxford Brookes University.
5. He is a Grammy Winner
Burna Boy won his first Grammy Award in 2021 for Best Global Music Album for Twice as Tall and has received multiple nominations since then.
6. He was the first Nigerian to headline Madison Square Garden
He made history as the first Nigerian artist to headline Madison Square Garden in April 2022 and has performed at major venues like Coachella and the Hollywood Bowl.
7. Space Puffs Cereals
In October 2018, Burna Boy released a limited edition of cereals called Space Puffs cereals. The cereals were sold during a pop-up event in London.
8. His mother is his manager
It is a well known fact that Burna Boy’s mother, Bose Ogulu, manages him and has been instrumental in shaping his career. She is also an accomplished businesswoman with a background in education.
9. Burna Boy's Music Company
Burna Boy and his mom, Bose Ogulu, started a music company called Spaceship Collective. Burna Boy's sister, Nissi, is also part of the company, and their mom is the boss. Other people who work there include Ronami Ogulu, who helps with creative ideas and branding, and the music producers LeriQ and Telz.
10. Burna Boy is a strong voice for change in Nigeria
For a fact, Burna Boy's music sometimes speaks out against political issues like bad government and police brutality. Songs like Another Story and Monsters You Made have helped spark important conversations about the government. He also released 20.10.10, which spoke about the END SARS massacre of 2020.
11. Burna Boy has a day in Boston
Lastly, and more recently, Burna Boy has a day dedicated to him in Boston on March 2.
