Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, professionally known as Burna Boy, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer who has risen to global stardom with his unique blend of Afrobeats, dancehall, reggae, and hip-hop, a style he dubs "Afro-fusion." A self-proclaimed "African Giant," he has been instrumental in bringing African music to the forefront of the international stage.
Born on July 2, 1991, in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Burna Boy's musical roots run deep. His grandfather, Benson Idonije, was the first manager of the legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti. This early exposure to Nigeria's rich musical heritage profoundly influenced his artistic development. His mother, Bose Ogulu, a linguist and academic, now serves as his manager, playing a pivotal role in his career.
Burna Boy's journey in music began in earnest after he returned to Nigeria from his studies in London. He gained initial recognition with his 2012 single "Like to Party" from his debut album L.I.F.E (Leaving an Impact for Eternity), released in 2013. The album was a critical success in Nigeria, establishing him as a promising new voice.
TaTaTa Ft Travis Scott @trvisXX Out Now!!!https://t.co/B3AjU1vfOU pic.twitter.com/NnRbHEbAg2
— Burna Boy (@burnaboy) May 21, 2025
His international breakthrough came with his third studio album, Outside, released in 2018. The album featured the sleeper hit "Ye," which garnered significant international attention and became an anthem for a new generation of Africans. This success was further amplified by his 2019 album, African Giant. A bold and politically charged project, it earned him a Grammy nomination for Best World Music Album and solidified his status as a global music icon.
In 2020, Burna Boy reached the pinnacle of his career to date, winning the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album for his fifth studio album, *Twice as Tall*. Executive produced by American music mogul Diddy, the album was a seamless fusion of African sounds with global sensibilities, featuring collaborations with artists like Stormzy, Chris Martin of Coldplay, and Youssou N'Dour.
Known for his charismatic stage presence and powerful vocals, Burna Boy has sold out iconic venues worldwide, including Madison Square Garden in New York City, a historic achievement for an African artist.
He continues to be a dominant force in the music industry, celebrated for his authenticity, musical innovation, and his unwavering commitment to celebrating and exporting African culture to the world.
