Next Digital, Africa’s homegrown digital media pioneer, today announced its role as JV Partner of Centili Group and the exclusive African broadcast partner for the launch of a revolutionary new global pay-per-view concert series, headlined by Grammy Award- winning superstar Burna Boy.
The historic event — set for March 2026 at Philadelphia’s World Café Live — will be streamed live via Next Digital’s continental media streaming partner platforms, ensuring that millions of fans across Africa experience the show simultaneously with global audiences. Viewers will also have access to an immersive Metaverse experience powered by Sansar, bringing Africa’s cultural power to the forefront of digital innovation.
Prince Malik Ado-Ibrahim, Founder and Executive Chairman of Next Digital, said:
“This collaboration is about more than technology — it’s about Africa owning its narrative. Burna Boy is a global ambassador of African music, and by delivering his historic performance directly to our people, we are proving that Africa can lead the digital entertainment revolution. With our partners, we are building a platform that ensures Africa is not just watching the future — we are shaping it.”
As part of its long-term partnership with Centili Group and Sansar, Next Digital will bring more global concerts, sports, and cultural experiences to the continent, while showcasing African creativity to billions of viewers worldwide.
About Next Digital
Next Digital, a wholly owned subsidiary of NextTV Nigeria, is dedicated to building inclusive digital platforms that amplify African culture, empower youth, and strengthen digital sovereignty. Operating across Africa with advanced satellite and streaming solutions, Next Digital is driving the continent’s role as a leader in global media and technology.
Burna Boy started his music career in Nigeria, but has since gone global, performing on the main stages of Coachella and the Grammys. His songs have been instrumental in the reemergence of Afrobeats on the global stage.
Across every song, album and feature, he’s given fans music that speaks to confidence, heartbreak, African pride, political unrest, Lagos chaos and luxury in equal measure. Whether he’s raging through “Last Last”, or gliding across “Bank On It”, his catalogue is focused and diverse.
So, I asked the listeners who matter most, the Outsiders, to rank forty of the very best Burna Boy songs.
Here are the 40 greatest burna boy songs of all time ranked by fans.
40. “Solid” feat. Blxst and Kehlani (2022)
Here, Burna Boy features American singers Blxst and Kehlani to deliver a romantic special.
“It’s a good vibe.” — Gboyega, Burna Boy fan since “Ye.”
Standout lyrics: “You the type I really vibe with / So I forever keep it solid.”
39. “Agbada” (2018)
Burna Boy put out this song following the release of his Outside album.
“I relate to this track on a level just a few can understand. This track has street tales that are basically my life’s soundtrack.” — Mike, Burna Boy fan since “Like to Party.”
Standout lyrics: “Tuck agbada inside trouser.”
38. “Hallelujah” (2017)
Burna Boy takes us to church here as he goes into praise and worship mode.
“I’m not even religious but I just like this song. It’s simple and the video is good too.” — Basit, Burna Boy fan since “Won Da Mo” featuring D’Banj.
Standout lyrics: “Mi affi give the most high praise / For the air I breathe.”
37. “Smoke” feat. Onosz (2011)
This is a freestyle Burna Boy did alongside Onosz on a sample of Bob Marley and the Wailers’ “No Woman No Cry.”
“I was still in secondary school, and I had not started smoking weed when I first heard this song, but it had that high feel to it. It’s a smoke session soundtrack. Top song.” — Bami, Burna Boy fan since Best of Burn Series, Vol. 1.
Standout lyrics: “How you like to smoke some weed, yeah, yeah.”
36. “Alone” (2022)
This Burna Boy song appeared on the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever album.
“We used it to do a memorial for one of my lecturers who died, and it has stuck since then. It just reminds me to always appreciate everything I have, because you never know how it feels till you lose something.” — Iyegbekosa, Burna Boy fan since “Ye.”
Standout lyrics: “Count every blessing, count every lesson / E fit no dey tomorrow, so I count every second.”
35. “Fa So LaTi Do” (2016)
This track is from his Redemption EP, which reunited him with old-time producer Leriq.
“Burna Boy was experimenting with sounds this period and this is the chillest vibe from him.” — Mide, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “If I get them drawers, baby / You gon’ wish I’m yours, baby.”
34. Big 7 (2023)
This is the second single from Burna Boy’s seventh album, I Told Them…, and it marks his latest nickname, Big 7.
“It gets me hyped.” — Williams, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “Been wavy since morning.”
33. “Jealousy” (2015)
Here, Burna Boy sings about the negative impact of jealousy and keeping it real despite thee evny of others.
“It’s his song that I can sing from start to finish. It’s simple and groovy.” — Joba, Burna Boy fan since “Tonight.”
Standout lyrics: “Olowo lo n sore olowo.”
32. “Pree Me” (2016)
This is the first single from Burna Boy’s Redemption EP.
“I really love this song. It came out around 2016, and that was the time I was down. I was depressed and was almost a junkie. I couldn’t even fit into the things my family did at home. This song was all I had.” — Tomnay, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “Lately I have been in my toes / Enemies been in a mission.”
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31. “Check and Balance” (2014)
This is a single Burna Boy released after the success of his “Don Gorgon” in 2014.
“I like this jam because dancehall Burna Boy is my favourite.” — Promise, Burna Boy fan since “Trumpet” featuring Davido.
Standout lyrics: “I’ve been looking I’ve been searching / Man a hustle man a working.”
30. “Devil in California” (2018)
This is Burna Boy in one of his best melancholic forms.
“Burna Boy is in his feelings. This is the Burna Boy I relate to the most whenever I’m in my feelings.” — Rinde, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “I’ve been living on the edge but I won’t fall off.”
29. “I Told Them” feat. GZA (2023)
Here, Burna Boy features GZA, a legendary rapper from the infamous rap group Wu-Tang Clan.
“I love ‘I Told Them’ because it resonates with my life.” — Kehinde, Burna Boy fan since “Run My Race”
Standout lyrics: “I told them I’m a genius / I had to show them what the meaning is.”
28. “City Vibration”
This is one of the few songs Burna Boy dedicates to his home city, Port Harcourt.
“It’s telling how Niger Delta militias took law into their own hands before Yar’Adua’s amnesty. The region that provides the most oil for the country is not in its best state, a sad reality of our society. This is his root. While I love how he has evolved across genres, I still want to vibe to the reggae-fusion version of Burna Boy.” — Oluwaseyi, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “Know say Niger Delta boys no trust no minister / That’s the reason why dem’a burst the cylinder.”
27. “Another Story” feat. M.anifest (2019)
This is one of Burna Boy and M.anifest’s two collaborations.
“I love the political message on this and the featured artist is perfect.” — Wisdom, Burna Boy fan since “Tonight.”
Standout lyrics: “Since 1960 dem dey play us wayo.”
26. “Rockstar” (2015)
This is Burna Boy’s final version of “Rockstar,” after he accused his former label, Aristokrat Records, of leaking an early version.
“There’s just something different about it. Plus, it came at a time when people weren’t really paying attention to Burna. Also, the calm production, visuals, and the South Africa era he was in back then made me like it.” — Olumide, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “I’m a rockstar, baby.”
25. “Yawa Dey” (2013)
This is one of the first singles Burna Boy released ahead of his debut album L.I.F.E.
“This is this early sound. I really fuck with his Aristokrat Records era music.” — Chibuzor, Burna Boy since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “Tell dem no be by force / As I drive waka pass, I dey do my thing.”
24. “23” (2020)
Apart from being a motivational song, “23” is a special nod to successful American basketballer Michael Jordan, who’s popularly known for wearing a number 23 jersey in his playing years.
“The delivery and flow is great, and the way his vocals conveyed the emotions of this song is really beautiful.” — Toyosi, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “Music make me feel I be Jordan.”
23. “Bank On It” (2020)
In this song, Burna Boy explores faith, perseverance and self-belief.
“This is my motivational song, telling me that I’m the shit. You can bank on me. I’ll never fail.” — Toyosi, Burna Boy fan since “Tonight.”
Standout lyrics: “Diferent type of evil available / And any one of them can kill you.”
22. “Giza” feat. Seyi Vibez (2023)
This is Burna Boy and Seyi Vibez’ s first collaboration.
“I love love street music and Seyi Vibez. Seeing Burna Boy work with him is big. They killed this song.” — Seun, Burna Boy since “Wetin Man Go Do.”
Standout lyrics: “Take a picture / Five hours ago for camera roll.”
21. “Killin Dem” feat. Zlatan (2018)
This is Burna Boy and Zlatan’s one and only song together.
“Anytime the beat drops, it’s a hit.” — Sayo, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “You’re not Ayefele, so what’s your excuse?”
20. “Last Last” (2022)
Coming out of a break-up with musician Steflon Don, Burna Boy sings about the inevitability of heartbreak.
“Around the time this song came out, one of my guys was going through heartbreak, and my friends and I trolled him with this song a lot. The song made me happy.” — Mikaelson, Burna Boy fan since “Gbona.”
Standout lyrics: “E don cast / Last last ), na everybody go chop breakfast.”
19. “Gwarn” (2017)
This is Burna Boy’s first collaboration with Ghanaian music producer Juls.
“The flows on the song are too seamless. He’s just going. The lyrics, the rhythm, the notes, highs and the lows are perfect.” — Chidinma, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “She said she love me something / Because when mi long something slide up in her.”
18. “Monsters You Made” feat. Chris Martin (2020)
Burna Boy collaborates with American singer Chris Martin, a member of the music band Coldplay.
“I like the song because of its Afrocentricism and its adoption of a revolutionary tone. It’s a protest song and a politically conscious track.” — Emerald, Burna Boy fan since L.I.F.E.
Standout lyrics: “So fuck dem classes in school / Fuck Mungo Park and the fools / That said they found river Niger / They’ve been lying to you / Ain’t no denying the truth / See what I’m tryin’ to do / Is draw the line for the mothers cryin’, we’re dying as youths.”
17. “Dangote” (2019)
Burna Boy sings about the daily struggles of Nigerians, from poverty to police brutality and the rat race.
“I really like it because it just felt different at the time and I found it very vibey.” — Maryam, Burna Boy fan since “Ye.”
Standout lyrics: “Dangote still dey find money.”
16. “Way Too Big” (2020)
Burna Boy praises himself, singing about how he has become a bigger-than-life figure in the Nigerian music industry and life generally.
“The way he moved on the beat is typical Burna Boy. For a song titled ‘Way Too Big,’ he brought a very high and contagious energy. It made me feel like a giant too. Lyrics on point as usual.” — Mark, Burna Boy fan since “Yawa Dey.”
Standout lyrics: “Way too big to be fucking with you.”
15. “Tonight” (2013)
This is one of the lead singles of his debut album, Leaving Impact Till Eternity (L.I.F.E.).
“It holds a special place in my heart. I fought so much for people to hear what I was hearing.” — Bamidele, Burns Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “Ah, àwọn jonzing wọn gbọdọ wọlé / O ri Tomiwa / Àwọn jonzing wọn gbọdọ wọlé.”
This song came out in 2013. Burna Boy and D’Banj were both Globacom ambassadors. It marks their only song together.
“This is one of his best songs ever. It hits just as hard as it did when it first came out.” — David, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “Awon temi cover mi, won da mo.”
8. “Gbona” (2019)
This is Burna Boy, saying to the world that he’s hot and in demand—he’s on fire.
“This song shows his skill level as a musician. So perfect. He has clearly mastered Fela’s Afrobeat, too. It’s clear in his fusion on this song.” — Deolu, Burna Boy fan since “Don Gorgon.”
Standout lyrics: “You no get money, you dey call police / Me I dey laugh you gan ni.”
7. “Ye” (2018)
This is aspirational music at its finest. This is Burna Boy’s breakout song to the global audience.
“This is the song that made me a Burna Boy fan.” — Bayo, Burna Boy fan since “Ye.”
Standout lyrics: “Plenty, plenty, plenty suffer we dey face, just to make sure money dey.”
6. “Anybody” (2019)
The language here may be a bit aggressive, but this is Burna Boy’s way of waking up anyone who’s still sleeping on his or her potentials.
“The groove on that song is just timeless. It mixes that old-school Afrobeats vibe with a fresh feel, and Burna Boy sounds so sure of himself on it. It’s like he’s speaking to everyone but still in his own world. Real Fela energy.” — Remi, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “Anybody wey no like to soji, knack am something ehnehn / Knack am something.”
5. “Onyeka (Baby)” (2020)
This is a love song that also gives a special nod to late Nigerian singer Onyeka Onwenu.
“Difficult choice. I had to settle on ‘Onyeka (Baby)’ for how it modernises the highlife love song. The lyrics are playful and packed with Nigerian music references. The melody is percussion-led and just playful. Every now and then, I return to his Grammy’s performance of the song, phoning in from the National Theatre accompanied by joyous-looking drummers.” — Dami, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “You know Osondi Owendi eh.”
4. “African Giant” (2019)
This is the opening track of the eponymous African Giant album.
“It makes me feel cocky.” — Braimoh, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “Many, many people don try am / You can’t test the African Giant.”
3. “Heaven’s Gate” feat. Lily Allen (2018)
This is one of the lead singles from Burna Boy’s Outside album, and it features U.K. singer Lily Allen.
“You listen to this and feel invincible. Lily Allen really complemented Burna Boy’s energy on the jam. The way he incorporated patois in the flow and the bold delivery was perfect too.” — Uba, Burna Boy fan since “Won Da Mo” featuring D’Banj.
Standout lyrics: “Anyway, I thought you was a gee, but you’re any snake.”
2. “Like To Party” (2013)
This is Burna Boy’s first mainstream hit—the one that introduced him to many fans.
“My sister put me on this bop the summer it came out, and it has never left my summer playlist ever since.” — Nancy, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “So, I’m here with girl. Them that likes to party / And move some body.”
1. “On The Low” (2019)
This is the second single from Burna Boy’s fourth studio album African Giant.
“It’s a really catchy tune. I had it on replay for weeks when it dropped. The video only served to solidify its place as my favourite from Burna Boy. The dance performance from the vixen tied the song together perfectly.” — Bobga, Burna Boy fan since “Like To Party.”
Standout lyrics: “You know I feel a vibe, you feel a Vibe / So, baby whine it pon me.”
Lagos, Nigeria, was a haven for music enthusiasts as it hosted a sensational four-day music festival. Nestled against the backdrop of its vibrant nightlife and rich cultural scene, Flytime Fest was a massive success, drawing 30,000 fans to its sold-out venue from December 22 to 25, with Gunna, Olamide, Davido, and Ayra Starr serving as the festival’s headliners.
Tyla, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Rema, Tiwa Savage, D’banj, Bnxn, Darkoo, Fireboy, Omah Lay, Fave, Ckay Odumodublvck, Shallipopi, Cobhams, and other performers were also on the bill. After the concert, Cecil Hammond, CEO of Flytime Promotions, reflected: “Gunna injected a new vibe for such a diverse and wide-reaching festival. It brings us so much joy to see Lagos as the new destination spot and Flytime is excited to be part of this transformation. Flytime Fest 2024 was another dream realized, and we can’t wait to see how much the movement will have grown by the time we return again in 2025.”
(Gunna performs at Flytime Fest in Lagos)
Gunna headlined the first night of Lagos’ Flytime Fest, a four-day music festival celebrating Africa and the African Diaspora that has previously hosted Megan Thee Stallion,Wizkid, Burna Boy, and more. Gunna hit the stage in front of a full crowd packing out Lagos’s Eko Convention Center, a premier entertainment venue in the bustling West African metropolis. After performing a slew of hits including “One of Wun,” “Drip Too Hard,” “Fukumean,” and “Yosemite,” the beat to “Jump” dropped as Tyla strutted out singing in a pilot’s cap, sequined mini skirt, and black bustier. “They ain’t never had a pretty girl from Joburg,” she purred as fans screamed.
Gunna headline set capped Flytime Fest’s Coca Cola Rhythm Unplugged concert that served as the festival’s first night. Rhythm Unplugged is a two-decade tradition that has helped break Nigerian talent like Tems and brought global acts like Ja Rule and Ashanti to the country.
As the show continued, the electrifying presence of Burna Boy took center stage, igniting a frenzy among fans who eagerly battled for the prime spots closest to the stage. His single, “Sittin’ On Top Of The World,” was met with full support from the crowd and was followed by Dave’s “Location,” “Last Last,” and an energetic performance of “Ye.” among others.
Day 2 saw Nigerian rap artist Olamide headline his three-hour long set that felt like a celebration of Nigerian music. The crowd was treated to surprise guest appearances from global superstars Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Fireboy DML,Wande Coal, Phyno, and Pheelz, turning the night into a spontaneous celebration of Afrobeats at its finest. The crowd went wild for Wizkid, who took his time and performed a slew of hits, including “Kese,” “Essence,” and Drake’s “One Dance.” Starting from the very middle of the stage on an enormous platform, he gradually moved closer to the audience with each song, to their inexplicable delight.
(Olamide performs at Flytime Fest in Lagos)
Olamide performed a medley of his chart-topping hits, including “Melo Melo,” “Durosoke,” “Triumphant” with Bella Schmurda,and the crowd-favorite “habibi.”
Davido took the stage on Day 3, delivering a set full of his biggest hits, including “Aye,” “Unavailable,” and “Kante,” his chart-topping collaboration with Fave. A mix of high-energy anthems and intimate moments kept the crowd on their feet, while Odumodublvck joined him onstage for a thrilling live rendition of “Funds.” To cap off the night, DJ Dope Caesar brought the crowd to a frenzy with her high-energy DJ set, ensuring the energy remained high long after the final act.
(Ayra Starr performs at Flytime Fest)
The final night of the festival was headlined by Ayra Starr, whose high-octane performance showcased hits like “Away” and “Sability,” along with tracks from her critically acclaimed album The Year I Turned 21. But it wasn’t just Ayra who got the crowd moving. Rema, one of the fastest rising stars in Afrobeats, made a surprise appearance, delivering pulse-pounding performances of “Ozeba” and “Azaman.” The surprises didn’t stop there – a rare duet between Tiwa Savage and Ayra Starr left fans speechless, showcasing the timeless appeal of Nigerian female talent
Flytime Fest 2024 also featured an emotional tribute to the history of the festival with a special photo collage celebrating Flytime’s 20-year journey. From its humble beginnings in 2004 to becoming a global phenomenon, the images reminded the audience of how far the Afrobeats movement has come and how much it has shaped the sound of modern music.
Flytime Festival will return for its twenty-first edition in December 2025.
Burna Boy’s seventh album, I Told Them, is the shiny new object everyone is all over since its release on August 25, 2023. We sat down, pressed play, and this is what we thought on first listen.
I Told Them starts with its titular track. After 24 seconds of instrumental and chants that give Caribbean bonfire vibes, Burna Boy, in his natural cocky state, begins to reiterate that he announced his own greatness even when people didn’t believe in him.
Towards the end of the 3:09 track, a kung-fu movie skit comes in, to indicate GZA’s presence on the song — his group, the Wu-Tang, is heavily associated with Chinese martial art culture. In a deep 16-bar delivery, GZA spits “I’m in a place where perception is developed / If you can’t walk in these shoes, then your feet would swell up / A medium by which thoughts are made clear / Beneath the surface, but only hurting the inner ear” to summarise why Odogwu grunts at the “little thanks” he gets from his fans.
Normal opens with a hyped Burna tearing through the beat, talking about counting money, being rich even before he signed to music labels, keeping few friends and how the perks of being a star are now normal to him. On Form plays next, and it’s groovy AF. Odogwu is obviously having fun, but his lyrics aren’t lighthearted; his current phase is just a start and anyone who dares to fuck with him should expect a dangerous reaction.
On track four, Burna hangs with 21 Savage who opens his verse with “I can help you shit on anyone you ever hated.” Who asked him? I guess it’s easy to do when you’re Sittin’ On Top Of The World.
Tested, Approved & Trusted is Burna giving a review of his game to a babe in three words. On the Dave-assisted Cheat On Me, Burna realises how he’s been cheating himself out of opportunities by putting others before himself. The seventh track is an interlude called Virgil — in honour of the late Virgil Abloh who Burna name-dropped on his 2021 single, Want It All. The song features a voice note from the iconic designer, analysing the art of traditional album promotion.
Big 7 comes after, banging with heavy hip-hop influence in sound and delivery. Burna Boy is intoxicated, living every day like a holiday and celebrating himself. Dey Play is a sarcastic statement to whoever isn’t on the same wavelength as him and his wealthy guys. Next is City Boys, an anthem he previewed on August 19, 2023, for young, rich boys living wildly in the city.
If this Burna album gets a Grammy nod, Seyi Vibez will join the list of new cats Odogwu has taken to the prestigious global awards, after Zlatan (African Giant) and Victony (Love, Damini). On Giza, he and the self-acclaimed Vibe Boy sing about smoking sativa and other hedonist pursuits.
Next, RZA, another founding member of the Wu-tang Clan, gives Burna the 12 Jewels — a list of important acquisitions every man should strive for — knowledge, wisdom, understanding, freedom, justice, equality, shelter, food, clothing, love, peace and happiness.
The album gets closer to its end on If I’m Lying, which goes acoustic as Burna Boy gives gratitude to his creator. He offers his shoulders to those crying and begs birds to stop flying, seas to stop flowing and trees to start dying if he’s not sincere about the things he says. Well… these things are scientifically impossible.
On the 14th track, Thanks featuring J. Cole, Burna Boy brings up his club incident of 2022 and the never-ending rumour about his mum dancing for Fela Kuti. He’s allowed to address these issues, but he insults us when he goes on reduce the huge love and pride the motherland shows him to rumours about him. We first heard Taliban II in July when Jamaican artist, Bryon Messia, brought Burna on it. Now, it’s the bonus and final track on I Told Them, as the well-rounded album completes its spin.
Burna Boy’s early hip-hop, reggae and dancehall influences are present in the sound and vocal delivery on this latest body of work. However, it becomes clearer that the afro-fusion narrative is more a means of standing out under the saturated umbrella of “afrobeats”, as Burna expands and penetrates different cultures. His “afro-fusion” comes from smoothly fusing elements of foreign genres with African classics, the same components that make up afrobeats. But, I Told Them is still a tale of fun, celebration, brilliance and I-told-you-I’m-the-fucking-best-ism at its best.
Burna Boy, a.k.a Odogwu, concluded the final lap of his year-long Love Damini tour at the GelreDome Arnhem stadium in Netherlands on July 23, 2023.
After breaking and setting records as the first African artist to sell out four stadia shows in less than a year, he took to social media to announce the end of the tour and a brand new single in the same tweet.
Love Damini Stadium Tour is Officially Over! Thank you to everyone that supported me and supported this tour. It means the World To Me. I appreciate you all! Till the Next One! New Music Out Friday‼️
According to Chuka Obi, who worked as a creative director on Burna Boy’s Twice As Tall album, all ‘Outsiders’ should get their plates, Damini is coming again with a fantastic feast. Here’s what we know about the coming album.
It’s out in August
Burna Boy’s new album arrives in August, although the exact date hasn’t been revealed yet. Would it be odd to note that Burna has put out his last three albums (African Giant, Twice As Tall and Love, Damini) between July and August of 2019, 2022 and 2022?
I’m beginning to think that Burna Boy doesn’t need rest, it’s rest that needs him. He just finished his tour a few days ago, and he’s already gearing to drop a new music project. You know what that means? Another international tour is just around the corner.
His 7th album
When this album joins his discography in August, it’ll become his seventh studio album. His eleventh music project if we include mixtapes like the 2011 Burn Notice (2011), the 2012 Burn Identity (and 2016’s Redemption and Steel And Copper with DJDS in 2019. Workrate >>>>
There is no title or tracklist yet
Trying to predict what the album title could be futile because Burna is unconventional. Burna Boy’s albums usually have between fifteen to twenty tracks. If he can’t perform it for almost an hour at his show, it’s not Burna album material.
Exciting features
There’s news of heavy international features from J. Cole and legendary Wu-tang members GZA and RZA. With these names on deck, Burna Boy might be rapping this time. You can hear J. Cole’s voice rapping on what seems to be their collabo in the background.
American producer Swizz Beat also previewed a song with Burna; it sounds like a summer bop. Time is going, they should drop the new album quickly, we can’t wait to hear it.
Since 2019, Burna Boy has featured only one Nigerian artist per album — Zlatan Ibile (African Giant) and Victony (Love, Damini). It’s been pointed out that he’s doing the same thing this time, too. We just have to wait and find out which Nigerian act it is.
The singles
Before Sittin’ On Top Of The World was released on June 1st, 2023, he played the song for RZA in a video he posted on social media (the linkup makes sense now after hearing the Wu-tang member is on the album). On June 22, Sittin’ On Top Of The World was re-released with a guest feature from American rapper, 21 Savage; we hope it makes the album. If not, maybe the Big 7 single coming out Friday, 28th of July, will.
Looks more like Hip-Hop than Afrobeats
We might be getting a Hip-Hop album from Burna Boy. All the signs are there; from the sounds of his latest single to the features from American rap titans. Also, he’s one of the few Nigerian artists that can’t be boxed in. Give Burna any style or genre of music; murder is the case. It’s not hard to tell African Giant is about to feed us ferocious rhymes and bars.
Everyone says AI is the future. After all, it can write a 5,000-word essay faster than any human being. But does AI have taste when it comes to afrobeats music? I reached out to ChatGPT — the Beyoncé of AIs — for its top ten greatest afrobeats albums of all time. While the list looks good, I don’t agree with a couple of things.
Let’s get into this ranking.
10. Once Upon a Time — Tiwa Savage, 2013
Tiwa Savage doesn’t get enough credit for how she has and continues to impact afrobeats. At a time when the Nigerian scene was a boys’ club, she came in and disrupted the system.
But while there was a lot of anticipation for her debut album, Once Upon a Time, after excellent back-to-back singles — from Kele Kele Love to Without My Heart — outside of a few standouts like Middle Passage, Folarin and Ileke, most of the non-singles on the album sounded like filler tracks. That being said, an excellent replacement for this album would be Tiwa’s 2020 masterpiece, Celia, which finally found the balance between vocalist and club-friendly Tiwa.
9. Get Squared — P-Square, 2005
Can we go back to the smooth R&B days when men were dramatic AF, break-dancing shirtless in the rain and singing about how they could treat every girl better than their current man? When they made Get Squared, Peter and Paul were knee-deep in their afro-R&B F-Boy bag. They served breakfast on Temptation, got breakfast in return on Omoge Mi, pulled up to the club in Bizzy Body and ended up with the popo on Oga Police. These men didn’t put Mary Slessor to shame with this album, and it definitely deserves to be on this list.
8. Baddest Guy Ever Liveth — Olamide, 2013
Forget conversations about any big three; Olamide has always been an afrobeats icon. Since his 2010 breakout with Eni Duro, Olamide has used his music as a bridge that connected audiences to the streets of Lagos. Olamide made street pop cool, and now, we have artistes like Naira Marley, Asake, Zinoleesky and Seyi Vibez.
Baddest Guy Ever Liveth is top three Olamide, and it’s not number three. With songs like Eleda Mi O, the fuji-inspired Anifowose and Durosoke, Olamide created an album that started his legacy as an afrobeats GOAT deserving of a spot on this list.
7. Mama Africa — Yemi Alade, 2016
Say what you want about Yemi Alade, but the woman knows her sound and audience. Fresh off the success of 2014’s King of Queens, which had her breakout hit, Johnny, Yemi Alade dropped Mama Africa in 2016 and became a Pan-African rockstar. While the album had bangers like Na Gode, Ferrari and Mama, the production sometimes feels repetitive, but how can anyone hate on that with Asake playing everywhere? Yemi Alade deserves her flowers for the colour she brings to afrobeats, and even Beyoncé agrees.
6. A Good Time — Davido, 2019
We all love Davido, but before A Good Time, I never saw him as an album artist, especially after listening to OBO: The Genesis. A Good Time works well because it’s a collection of singles compiled over two years. That being said, the singles, from If to Fall and Assurance, all slap. Davido should also get a lifetime supply of agege bread for putting Wurld, Naira Marley and Zlatan on one track. However, although Davido’s contribution to afrobeats remains goated, this album shouldn’t be on this list. If we were talking about the greatest songs, that’d be a different case.
An album title can describe many things: the emotions the artistes went through while creating it, how they want their audience to feel, or their view of the world. For Wizkid, his debut album Superstar was prophetic.
Guided by Banky W, the singer delivered one of the most impressive debut albums in Nigerian history. With hits like Love My Baby and Pakurumo, and deep cuts like Scatter the Floor and No Lele, Wizkid had the world in his hands and still has it over a decade later. That being said,Made in Lagos, a more cohesive and expansive work, is a better album and should’ve been on this list instead.
4. African Giant — Burna Boy, 2019
Whether or not African Giant is Burna Boy’s best album is up for debate. However, it’d be almost impossible to talk about the trajectory of afrobeats, especially for our generation, without mentioning the album that should’ve gotten Burna Boy his first Grammy.
From award bait collaborations with Damian Marley Jr, M.anifest and Angelique Kidjoe, to viral singles like Anybody, Killin Dem and Dangote, Burna Boy made a statement with African Giant, and the world listened.
3. Expensive Shit — Fela Kuti, 1975
This entry is how you know AI ain’t shit. Fela isn’t an afrobeats artiste, he made afrobeat music.
Afrobeat is a music genre that fuses West African musical styles, such as fuji and highlife, with jazz, soul and funk. The genre is mainly recorded with heavy live instrumentation and was made famous by Fela Kuti, a pioneer. Meanwhile, afrobeats is a term that groups African pop music genres with diverse influences, such as rap, reggae, soul and R&B.
Since Fela doesn’t make afrobeats, he shouldn’t be on this list.
2. Juju Music — King Sunny Ade, 1982
Honestly, I’d never listened to King Sunny Ade’s Juju Music until now — let me tell the truth and shame the devil. However, listening to the album for the first time was a major experience because I realised I knew most of the songs. Living in Lagos and attending events with my mum introduced me to jams like Ja Funmi, Ma Jaiye Oni, and 365 is My Number. King Sunny Ade’s music makes it hard to pick between sitting down to relax and standing up to bust a move. This is an incredible album. However, whether or not it’s an afrobeats album is up for discussion.
1. Zombie — Fela Kuti, 1977
Fela’s Zombie is an iconic album. With just four tracks that last almost an hour altogether, the album is an enjoyable political statement that reminds us that not much has changed since 1977; after all, the government is still fucking us over. But despite being a great album, I’d like to refer to my last Fela entry. Dear, this isn’t an afrobeats album; it’s afrobeat. So much for the “intelligence” part of Artificial Intelligence.
It’s one thing to be a fan of a musician, but being a stan? That’s another thing entirely. Stans are fans who are willing to actually throw hands because of their faves.
Source: Zikoko Memes
With stan culture taking over the +234 internet (and real-life) thanks to Wizkid FC, Savage Soldiers, Outsiders, 30 BG and Rebel Gang, we decided to talk to some stans about the most outrageous things they’ve done for their faves.
“My family doesn’t know I have a Wizkid tattoo”
– Kayinsola*, 23
Source: Zikoko Memes
I come from a very religious family that doesn’t even allow me or my sisters to have more than one piercing. But during Detty December in 2022, I randomly got a tattoo of Wizkid’s full name, “Ayodeji Balogun”, on my thigh. I don’t wear short skirts or shorts at home, so my parents haven’t seen it yet. I could lie that it’s my boyfriend’s name. At least, maybe they’d think I’m less of a nutjob if the person knows I exist. But they’d also ask to see this boyfriend, and I don’t have one.
I’ve been a Wizkid fan since my first year of secondary school when he dropped Holla At Your Boy. He’s the greatest Nigerian musician of all time. I don’t regret my tattoo, but I wish I’d gotten it after I japa. I know my parents will unalive me if they see it.
“I used ₦1.6m to cover my favourite rapper’s bill in the club”
– Buchi*, 31
Source: Zikoko Memes
For someone who isn’t rich, tell me why I cleared the table of one of my favourite musicians in the club. I’m a huge fan of Nigerian rap music from back in the day. I ran into one of my favourite rappers at the club in Enugu one night and was starstruck. He’d come into town to perform at a wedding, so he pulled up with his entourage to chill after. That’s how I told the club owner, my friend, to tell him not to worry, “Bills on me”.
By the time the bill came, omo, I was looking at about ₦1.6m. He came into an Enugu club with Lagos energy. I’ve never paid that type of money for anything. Even for my brother’s wedding, I only contributed ₦1m. Never again.
“I’m only on social media as a stan account”
– David*, 29
Source: Zikoko Memes
Tiwa Savage is my favourite musician and the only reason I have social media accounts. I don’t have a social media presence besides the LinkedIn and Facebook accounts I don’t even have access to anymore. But I run a stan account to share Tiwa’s articles, new songs, interviews, etc. Olorun Mi saved my life when I lost my brother, so since then, I’ve been a dedicated Savage Soldier. Everyone has hits, but no one serves vocals like my girl, and for that, I’ll drag anyone who says rubbish on Twitter.
“Most of my salary goes to K-Pop merch, and I’m okay with it”
– Hassana*, 25
Source: Zikoko Memes
There’s a massive K-Pop community here in Nigeria, and I’m very active in it. I discovered K-pop through a co-worker in 2019 and haven’t looked back since. I stream their albums and performances, but the most outrageous thing I do is buy and ship merch, especially from BLACKPINK. Dollar rates rising or not, I’ll always support my girls.
“I lied at work to go look for Burna Boy at Eko Hotel”
– Sheryl*, 30
Source: Zikoko Memes
I was obsessed with Burna Boy during my NYSC. I mean, I still love my boo now, but back then, I was actually obsessed. One day in 2014, I saw him post on his Instagram stories, and I recognised the pool in his background as the one at Eko Hotels. I wasn’t even sure if the post was recent, but see, I told my office HR my mother had collapsed and I needed to rush home. I hopped on a bus and ran to Eko Hotel. I just sat in the lobby for the rest of the day, hoping I’d run into him.
I remember watching that Korty video and laughing because it felt like a personal drag.
“I secured my Beyoncé Renaissance tickets before getting my visa”
-Jesse*, 30
Source: Zikoko Memes
My plans in life come second to Beyoncé’s plans for me, and that’s on period. As soon as she dropped the Renaissance tickets, I was in a queue to buy mine online for the UK show — since she’s not coming to Nigeria. It wasn’t until I’d paid for my ticket that I realised I hadn’t renewed my visa. I’ve applied and everything, but what if I don’t get it? I’m focusing on positive thoughts for now.
“I stopped talking to a girl because she said Wizkid was overrated”
– Nti*, 28
Source: Zikoko Memes
Imagine trying to get to know someone and they diss your favourite artiste? That’s what happened with a girl I was toasting two years ago. We met at a house party in Lagos, and I liked her vibe. Wizkid’s Come Closer came on shuffle as I was driving her for one of our hangouts, and unprovoked, this babe started insulting Wiz.
Granted, that song is somehow, but to call him overrated and a Wande Coal dupe? That was too much, so I ghosted her after that day. I didn’t need that negative energy around me.
Civic responsibility is not cosplay. When your brand claims to be politically conscious, you should show up when it counts.
As millions of Nigerians gathered at the polls to decide the country’s fate during the 2023 presidential elections, some singers who’ve built their identities around fixing Nigeria were nowhere to be found. It’s one thing to sing about the struggles Nigerians go through. It’s another thing to actually do something about it, especially when that thing is voting — or encouraging others to.
Following the events of 2020 — the year we protested for our lives while some people in government hoarded Indomeeen meant for COVID-19 palliatives — I wasn’t surprised when, as early as 6 a.m., most Nigerians were already at their polling units ready to exercise their civic duty and protect their mandate. One of those early birds was Nollywood actress, Omoni Oboli.
Omoni Oboli at her polling unit on the morning of the elections
Not too long after Omoni’s post on social media, Nollywood started showing up en masse with posts from actors like Jemima Osunde, Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha, Kate Henshaw, Rita Dominic, Toyin Abraham, Stan Nze, Adesua Etomi and Adunni Ade. These actors didn’t just show us they were voting, they also provided situation reports on their various polling units, encouraging their over 40 million combined followers to go out and vote.
But while Chioma Chukwuka was getting attacked by thugs trying to snatch ballot boxes and Omoni Oboli camped at her polling unit till 6 a.m. the next day, our self-proclaimed African Giant, Burna Boy, was nowhere to be found. And our best export since crude oil, Wizkid? Well, Machalla was in Ghana, attending the funeral of a music producer’s mum, which might be good enough reason to not be in the country, but to not talk about the election?
Wizkid, King Promise, Omar Sterling and members of R2bees spotted at the funeral of Killbeats’ mother, Agnes Addison happening today at Tema, Site15 pic.twitter.com/b0WktH2PLR
It’s easy to dismiss Burna Boy and Wizkid’s absence from the polls; they’re just two votes out of 93.4 million registered voters. But then there’s the question of their reach. These two men have a larger social audience than most Nollywood stars who showed up at the elections and talked about it combined.
Leading up to the 2023 elections, some of these actors and musicians like Falz, Davido, Ladipoe, M.I and Zlatan spoke about PVC collection, urging their fans to equip themselves with the only permissible weapon for the elections. Meanwhile, Burna and Wizkid refused to disrupt their perfectly curated social feeds with election information.
Other singers like Tiwa Savage, Don Jazzy and Rema were also quiet (Tiwa put up a post after voting had officially wrapped up wishing Nigeria a peaceful election). These musicians aren’t known to be silent on social issues. After all, Burna called out Coachella, and Wizkid also attacked Reekado Banks for attempting to promote music during #EndSars, all on Blue Ivy’s internet. So why keep quiet now?
Singling out Wizkid and Burna Boy is intentional, and their selection runs deeper than surface-level social media reach. Wizkid’s first international claim to fame and one of his biggest hits to date isn’t Essence; it’s Ojuelegba. The 2014 semi-autobiographical hit narrated Wizkid’s journey from shopping demos to becoming one of the biggest stars of his generation.
Ojuelegba wasn’t just Wizkid’s story; the song presented a certain level of hope that if this random guy could hustle his way out, then maybe it’s possible for the rest of us too.
Similarly, Burna Boy’s transition from “underrated” to international superstardom came in 2018 with a little song called Ye. Sampling Fela’s 1977 classic, Sorrow Tears and Blood, Ye positioned Burna as the voice of the people, a narrative he’s continued to push internationally from African Giant to Love, Damini.
These two, more Burna than Wizkid, have each benefited from posturing as messengers of the Nigerian experience — good and bad. So you can’t blame the people for expecting them to show up somehow when the going gets really tough.
In a very on-brand move, Wizkid has remained silent in the face of the warranted social media drag. Meanwhile, Burna has decided to be defensive and condescending — something we’ve gotten accustomed to.
Although I don’t have hard evidence to prove that celebrities showing up at the polls can influence voter turnout in Nigeria, it’s not far-fetched to imagine many people would’ve pulled up to the Ojuelegba polling unit in Lagos if they thought there was a slight chance their fave would be there.
That being said, going out to vote is a civic duty, and the decision shouldn’t be forced. But we should look at the bigger picture.
Music has held Nigerians together generation after generation, reflecting our collective struggles and hopes for the future. It was music Fela used to hold the military accountable during his time, and it was music that fueled the #EndSARS protests.
As Afrobeats dominates the “world” it’s been trying to reach for years, our faves must remember where the sound came from. There’ll be no “Afrobeats to the world” if Nigeria goes to shit. And when you claim to be about civic responsibility, you should show up when it counts.
Check here for live updates on the ongoing presidential and legislative elections.
It’s easy to remember 2013 as the year Instagram became a thing, while Blackberry, Ama Kip Kip shirts and carrot jeans faded away. But can we take a second to big up the music that dropped that year? From Tiwa Savage to Burna Boy, the hits flowed like unlimited Abacha funds, and we all had a good time. Somebody, please, take me back.
Baddest Guy Ever Liveth — Olamide
Remember when Olamide gave us albums yearly, and they all slapped? Good times. Baddest Guy Ever Liveth was Baddo’s third album in three years, and omo, it had zero skips.
Looking for owambe songs? Olamide gave us Eleda Mi O, Durosoke and Anifowose. Looking to scatter the club? There was Turn Up, Baddo Love and Yemi My Lover. This was one of the best albums of 2013 and one of Olamide’s best albums of all time.
Underrated song that should’ve been a hit:Dope Money with Phyno. Listening to two of Nigeria’s greatest rappers go back and forth on a sick beat will always do something for me. These two have such great chemistry it’s no surprise they’re still making songs together ten years later.
Leaving an Impact for Eternity (L.I.F.E.) — Burna Boy
After blowing up in 2012 with the smooth Like to Party and his round vintage glasses, Burna put his baby giant foot down with this album and hits like Run My Race, #YawaDey and Tonight. Even though he was just stepping into the spotlight, Burna moved with the confidence of an artiste who’d been doing this for over a decade.
Underrated song that should’ve been a hit: Jah’s Love is True with Wizkid. Forget BD’OR and Ginger. This is Burna and Wiz’s best collab. Argue with yourself, please.
Once Upon a Time — Tiwa Savage
No one was doing it like Tiwa Savage when Kele Kele Love dropped in 2010. The good sis came in, served us looks, vocals, choreography and ate everything up. No crumbs left.
Going toe to toe with the guys in the industry at the time, Tiwa dropped Once Upon a Time, and this album was fire. From the controversial Wanted to the Don Jazzy-assisted Eminado, Tiwa gave us left, right and centre. We need to give Ms Savage her flowers, please.
Underrated song that should’ve been a hit: Folarin. This song gave us a glimpse of Tiwa’s IDGAF attitude popular on songs like Koroba, 49-99 and Tiwa’s Vibe.
Blackmagic Version 2.0 — Blackmagic
Talking about alté music without mentioning Blackmagic should be a crime in Nigeria. This man did not drop Rainbow in 2011 to be forgotten by the new generation. Not many people got Blackmagic’s style of music at the time, but everyone can agree Repete was pure magic. Other songs like Confam with Sasha P and Pass You By with Oritse Femi helped position Blackmagic Version 2.0 as one of the best albums of 2013, no cap.
Underrated song that should’ve been a hit: Amnesia with M.I. This song was popular-ish, but the truth is, it should’ve been massive. Come on, guys, Blackmagic and M.I dragging their real and imaginary haters for filth? Inject it into my veins.
By 2013, Banky W had already claimed his position as the king of baby-making R&B music with 2008’s Capable and 2009’s The Banky W Experience — I know y’all remember Strong Ting. But as the generous king he is, Banky gave us another classic album in 2013, aptly titled R&BW. Extending his reign, the album had bangers like Yes/No, To My Unborn Child and Good Good Loving. Whew, what a time.
Underrated song that should’ve been a hit: Lowkey. This slow seductive song will remind you of the time Pastor Banky was deep in the world like the rest of us.
Desire — Iyanya
Iyanya finally hacked the Nigerian music industry in 2013, five years after winning the first edition of Project Fame and trying to win us over with vocals and romantic grammar. Kukure had everyone and their grandma doing the etigi dance, but Desire fully revamped Iyanya’s career with songs like Flavour, Sexy Mama with Wizkid and Your Waist with Emma Nyra.
Underrated song that should’ve been a hit: Somebody with Tiwa Savage. These two are vocal powerhouses, and it shows in this song. Iyanya even stops Tiwa at some point while she’s singing her ass off to remind her that vocals don’t sell in Nigeria.
Take Over — KCee
Considering how much I heard Limpopo in 2013, I’d be happy if I never listened to that song again. Kcee, the taller half of the early 2000s group, KC Presh, came back with a vengeance as a solo artist towards the end of 2012, and by 2013, he’d dropped an album, Take Over, and started his own label, with Harrysong as one of the artistes.
While Take Over didn’t follow up with hits as big as Limpopo, we got to know what Kcee and Wizkid would sound like as road safety officers on Pullover.
Underrated song that should’ve been a hit:Give It to Me with Flavour. If Limpopo had you whining your waist in 2013, best believe this Flavour collab would break your waist in 2023. Godspeed.
Words Aren’t Just Enough — Waje
Words Aren’t Just Enough, Waje’s debut album, came in 2013. This was five years after her vocals helped P-Square turn Do Me into a major hit, and three years after she made her mark with For a Minute. Whether it’s doing vocal harmonies with Tiwa Savage on Onye or reminding us that men are trash on I Wish, Waje made an album that deserved a lot more than it got back then.
Underrated song that should’ve been a hit:Grind with Burna Boy. I didn’t see this collaboration coming, but somehow, they made it work thanks to Leriq’s sick production. Add this song to your sex playlist, and thank me later.
The 2023 Grammy Awards came, saw, gave Tems her first Grammy, aired Burna Boy and failed to give Beyoncé her flowers… again.
Here’s a recap of all the moments that had us shook and the ones we’d very much like to forget.
Criminal: Beyonce losing “Album of the Year” for the fourth time
The most shocking moment of the night has to be when Beyoncé’s Renaissance lost the Album of the Year trophy to Harry Style’s Harry’s House. After putting out the most impactful and well-thought-out album of 2022 (still no visuals sha), everyone assumed this would be Beyoncé’s year to win the top prize, but the Grammys said:
Like Adele said in 2017, after winning Album of the Year, “What the f–k does she [Beyoncé] have to do to win album of the year?”
Say What?: Harry Styles saying, “This doesn’t happen to people like me very often”, after winning Album of the Year
As if beating out Beyoncé wasn’t bad enough, the As It Was singer went on to say things like this don’t happen to people like him. People like who, Harry? White men? British people? Straight men? Former One Direction members?
Boy, bye.
Best: Tems winning her first Grammy
If the world was ending, best believe I’ll carry Tems and her Grammy and leave the rest of you to deal with all the wahala. Tems showed us once again that she’s THAT girl when she took home the Grammy for Best Melodic Rap Performance alongside Future and Drake for their song, WAIT FOR U. Considering the year Tems has had, I knew she wouldn’t walk away empty-handed. Now, we have to get ready for the Oscars.
Not too bad: Burna Boy losing in both categories
I didn’t see Burna Boy losing in both the Global Music Performance and Global Music Album categories coming. Even if Love, Daminididn’t take home an award, I at least expected Last Last, a massive worldwide hit, to win in its nominated category.
Anyway, maybe this is what you get for insulting and kicking your fans.
Best: Aunty Viola Chinonye Davis winning her first Grammy and getting EGOT status
Viola Davis has had us in a chokehold since How to Get Away With Murder, so it’s time to pop champagne to celebrate her win. Not only did Aunty V win her first Grammy, but the award also makes her the third black woman and one of only 18 people to win an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony award. Talk about iconic.
I know that’s right: Lizzo shouting out Beyoncé during her speech for Record of the Year
Is it really the Grammys if one artiste doesn’t talk about how Beyoncé inspired their career? Adele did it in 2017, Megan Thee Stallion did it in 2021, and now, Lizzo. It’s the consistency for me. Grammys, we hope you’re hearing the crowd? The crowd is a lot. Many people are shouting.
Interesting: Samara Joy winning “Best New Artist” over Latto, Muni Long and Tobe Nwigwe
I didn’t know Samara Joy until today — apparently, she’s a jazz artiste. But she’s black, and one thing about me?
I.C.O.N.I.C: Beyoncé making history at the Grammys
Coming into the 2023 Grammys, Beyoncé already had 28 Grammy awards and the record for the most-awarded female musician of all time, but the good sis said, “Hold my cup”.
Winning Best Dance/Electronic Album, Best R&B Song, Best Dance/Electronic Recording and Best Traditional R&B Album, Beyoncé moved her total to 32 Grammys, surpassing classical music conductor Georg Solti’s record of 31 Grammys.
Quick question: Where is she putting all these Grammys, abeg?
Here for it: Mary J Blige, DJ Khaled and Rick Ross stanning Tems… as they should
Forget Solape, it’s high time we ask Temilade what she put in her stew.
Very very somehow: Jay Z joining DJ Khaled, Rick Ross, Lil Wayne and John Legend to perform God Did right after Beyoncé’s loss
DJ Khaled’s set for God Did would’ve been a great and timely performance to close the show if Beyoncé had won. But with the direction the show took, the song and performance felt off. God does many things, but I doubt Harry’s House winning over Renaissance was his handwork. I’ll find out on Sunday.
