Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, Burna Boy, has rejected suggestions that his artistry was inspired by Afrobeat legend, Fela Kuti.
In a recent discussion with tennis icon Roger Federer, the African Giant star explained that although Fela’s albums were part of the music that shaped his early years, they were not a source of inspiration for him.
Burna Boy disclosed that the very first album he owned was by R&B singer Joe, gifted to him for his 10th birthday.
He further revealed that it was his grandfather, Benson Idonjie—Fela’s first manager—who gave him one of Fela’s records.
The singer also mentioned that Lil Wayne’s Tha Carter III and Tupac’s Makaveli were among the significant soundtracks of his childhood.
When Federer asked which of those albums had the greatest influence, Burna Boy responded, “Honestly, none,” but clarified, “Fela was a big influence on me.”
His declaration that Fela did not inspire him surprised many, especially given that Burna Boy has sampled the Afrobeat pioneer in a number of his hits, such as Ye, My Money, My Baby, and Gbona.
