Burna Boy: TIME100 Honoree
Burna Boy, the Nigerian superstar, has been named in TIME100, the annual TIME Magazine list recognizing the most influential people in the world. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his significant role in elevating Afrobeats to its globally celebrated status. His unique sound, combining vibrant musicality with sharp lyricism, has not only brought him to the top of the music world but has also made him a groundbreaking artist. His inclusion in the TIME100 list is the culmination of his impressive career achievements.
Burna Boy’s journey to global recognition began in 2019 when he won Best International Act at the BET Awards, a feat he repeated at the 2020 BET Awards. This was followed by winning the Best African Act at the 2019 MTV Europe Music Awards and being announced as an Apple Music Up Next artist the same year. His fourth studio album, “African Giant,” won Album of the Year at the 2019 All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMMA), and was also nominated for Best World Music Album at the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards.
In 2020, Burna Boy garnered over 13 million monthly listeners on Spotify, the most by any African artist at the time, and performed over 200 times in different cities of the world. His music has transcended borders, appearing on the official soundtrack album of the award-winning Hollywood movie, “Queen & Slim,” and contributing to Beyoncé’s “The Lion King: The Gift” album.
In March 2021, Burna Boy made history as the first Nigerian artist to win in the ‘Best Global Music Album’ category at the Grammy Awards for his “Twice As Tall” album. His influence continues to grow, with 2023 marking another significant milestone as he became the first African artist to sell out a U.S. stadium. This year, he broke further barriers by being the first Afrobeats artist to sing at the Grammys.
Burna Boy’s journey is not just about personal success but also about the influence he exerts on a generation of young people from the continent. His music and collaborations, including his admiration for artists like 21 Savage, who remain grounded in their convictions, reflect his authenticity and commitment to staying true to his roots while making a global impact.
As a TIME100 honoree, Burna Boy has cemented his place in history as an influential figure in music and culture. His journey serves as an inspiration to many aspiring artists and a testament to the power of staying true to one’s artistic vision.