It is no news that popular Nigerian singer Burna Boy is being compared to Fela. Burna Boy spoke to GQ MAgazine about his career so far.
Burna boy who told GQ that he has come to terms with the fact that many people outside Nigeria don’t always understand his music; mainly because he sings with pidgin and Yoruba.
Burna Boy featured in the popular GQ Magazine where he spoke about his career, being compared to Fela, and more.
The Grammy-award Nominee also noted that he’d truly prefer if his work is responded to based on something deeper than sales, streams, and fluctuating chart positions.
“I don’t really have high regard for numbers, because numbers have no feelings, they have no soul, whereas I do,” he said.
“My ‘numbers’ is (are) the people who have actually felt the feeling that the music is supposed to carry across and in the process received the message,” he noted.
He was asked about being compared to Fela, and he said: “I don’t think anybody in their right mind would compare me to Fela.”
“Fela is my inspiration and my childhood hero, so if you think comparing me to Fela is honourable, it’s actually not.”
“It actually makes me feel weird. Fela was Fela, and if it wasn’t for Fela, there probably wouldn’t be any me, so I don’t understand the comparison.” Burna Boy said.
Burna boy was also asked if he talks to his grandfather about Fela, he replied: “Every time. Almost every other day.”
Burna Boy’s grandfather was Fela’s manager early in the musician’s career; he helped Fela to form his first band.
Furthermore, Burna Boy was asked about his career and the lessons he’s learnt on his journey, he replied: “Unlike a lot of other people, I’ve had to go through never-ending steps to get here, whereas other people have taken the elevator up.”
