Burna Boy, a Nigerian singer-songwriter and record producer, has an estimated net worth of $22 million. Known for his genre-blending Afro-fusion style, which mixes Afrobeats, dancehall, reggae, and hip-hop, Burna Boy—born Damini Ogulu—rose to fame with his 2012 single Like to Party. His debut album, L.I.F.E. (2013), helped establish him as a leading figure in African pop music. He gained global recognition with his 2018 album Outside and the hit single Ye, which became an anthem across Africa and internationally. Subsequent projects, including African Giant (2019) and Twice as Tall (2020), solidified his international status, with Twice as Tall winning the Grammy for Best Global Music Album, making him one of the first Nigerian solo artists to receive the honor. His later albums, such as Love, Damini (2022) and I Told Them… (2023), feature collaborations with global stars like Ed Sheeran, J Balvin, 21 Savage, and J. Cole, further expanding his worldwide appeal.
Early Life and Education
Damini Ogulu was born on July 2, 1991, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, to Bose, an academic and businesswoman, and Samuel Ogulu, a welding company manager. From a young age, he experimented with music using FL Studio. He attended Corona Secondary School in Agbara before moving to London for further education, studying at the University of Sussex and Oxford Brookes University. After returning to Nigeria, Burna Boy completed a year-long internship at Rhythm 93.7 FM, gaining early industry experience.
Studio Albums and Career Milestones
Burna Boy released his debut album, L.I.F.E. (2013), supported by singles including Like to Party, establishing him as a rising star in Nigerian pop. After leaving Aristokrat Records in 2014, he founded Spaceship Entertainment in 2015. That year, he released his second album, On a Spaceship, and the EP Redemption. His third album, Outside (2018), marked a global breakthrough, debuting at number three on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart and winning Album of the Year at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.
African Giant (2019) brought critical acclaim, an All Africa Music Award for Album of the Year, and a Grammy nomination. Twice as Tall (2020), executive produced by Sean “Diddy” Combs, debuted atop the Billboard World Albums chart and won the Grammy for Best Global Music Album. His sixth album, Love, Damini (2022), featured Ed Sheeran, J Balvin, and Popcaan, debuting at number 14 on the Billboard 200—the highest debut for an African album at that time. I Told Them… (2023) became his first UK Albums Chart number one and entered the US Billboard 200 Top 10, making him the first African artist to achieve this milestone.
Collaborations and Features
Burna Boy has collaborated with top international artists across genres. Highlights include Fall Out Boy (Sunshine Riptide), DJDS (Steel & Copper EP), Stormzy and Ed Sheeran (Own It), Master KG (Jerusalema remix), Sam Smith (My Oasis), Justin Bieber (Loved by You), Jon Bellion (I Feel It), and Beyoncé (Ja Ara E on The Lion King: The Gift soundtrack). His 2023 singles, Sittin’ on Top of the World and Big 7, gained international recognition, with a remix of the former featuring 21 Savage on I Told Them…. Burna Boy remains one of Africa’s most sought-after collaborators in global music.
Awards, Honors, and Influence
Burna Boy has won a Grammy and multiple BET, All Africa Music, Ghana Music, and Soundcity MVP Awards. In 2022, he received Nigeria’s Order of the Federal Republic in recognition of his contributions to music. Known for his socially conscious lyrics and commanding performances, he has played major venues such as Madison Square Garden and London Stadium, solidifying his status as one of Africa’s most successful music exports.
Personal Life
Burna Boy was in a relationship with British rapper and singer Stefflon Don from 2018 to 2022. In 2022, an incident at a Lagos nightclub involving his security team attracted media attention, although the details remain contentious. Despite controversies, he continues to be celebrated for his artistry, global influence, and role in bringing Afro-fusion to an international audience.
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