Burna Boy, the Grammy‑winning Nigerian singer, recently clarified his relationship with the music of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti during a conversation with tennis legend Roger Federer. He explained that while Fela’s records were part of his formative years, he does not view them as a direct source of inspiration. Burna Boy noted that his first album was an R&B record by Joe, given to him as a tenth‑birthday gift, and that he later acquired a Fela album from his grandfather, Benson Idonjie, who managed Fela’s career. He also mentioned Lil Wayne’s *Tha Carter III* and Tupac’s *Makaveli* album as influential records from his childhood.
When asked which of these records had the biggest impact on him, Burna Boy replied that none had a significant influence, yet he acknowledged Fela as a major influence on his music. This may seem contradictory, since Burna Boy has sampled Fela’s music in several songs, including hits such as “Ye,” “My Money, My Baby,” and “Gbona.” Fela Kuti is widely regarded as a key figure in the development of Afrobeat—a genre that blends traditional Yoruba music, jazz, and funk. Burna Boy’s music often incorporates Afrobeat elements, leading many to assume he was directly inspired by Fela’s work.
Burna Boy’s clarification offers insight into the diverse musical influences that have shaped his career. As a prominent figure in African music, his comments highlight the complex, multifaceted nature of artistic inspiration. The conversation with Federer provides a unique perspective on Burna Boy’s musical background and his position within the broader context of African music. His success has helped popularize Afrobeat and African music globally, introducing a new generation of fans to the genre. His remarks on Fela Kuti’s influence serve as a reminder of the rich musical heritage underpinning his work and the ongoing evolution of African music.
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