Burna Boy: I’m BIG7, not Fela  

Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ogulu, has made it clear he wants no part in comparisons to Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti.

In a bold Instagram post on Monday, Burna Boy declared, “I’m not Fela, I’m BIG7.” This statement came amid his broader reflections on integrity and authenticity, topics he addressed passionately as 2024 nears its end.

Standing apart from Fela Kuti

Burna Boy has often been linked to Fela Kuti due to his Afrobeat influence and outspoken personality. However, in his latest remarks, the self-styled “African Giant” distanced himself from the legendary musician, emphasizing his unique identity. By adopting the moniker “BIG7,” Burna Boy signals his focus on carving his own path in music and beyond.

Call for positivity

In his social media post, Burna Boy emphasized themes of “positivity, peace, and prosperity.” While his message carried an uplifting tone, he didn’t shy away from adding a sharp edge. In a striking declaration, he said, “Honestly, I’d rather kill you than die for you.” The bold remark, while controversial, underscores his emphasis on self-preservation and staying true to his principles.

Criticism of dishonesty

The award-winning musician took direct aim at what he sees as a culture of dishonesty, particularly on social media. Without naming specific individuals, Burna Boy pointed out instances of people flaunting lifestyles that don’t match reality.

He criticized those who falsely claim ownership of luxury properties, stating, “If you ever lied about buying Sujimoto’s house in Banana Island when you only rented it, do better in 2025.” He also called out similar behavior regarding another property, saying, “If you ever lied about Elele’s house being yours, do better in 2025.”

Burna Boy extended his critique to those boasting about counterfeit luxury items. He highlighted fake watches, warning, “If you have an aftermarket ‘rainbow Daytona,’ please stop telling people it’s real. Do better in 2025.”

Advocating for honesty

Burna Boy’s message was clear: honesty should take center stage in the new year. “It should be a criminal offence to tell as many lies as certain men. The list can go on and on,” he added. This blunt statement reflects his frustration with the growing prevalence of dishonesty in society, particularly among influencers and public figures.

Potential interview with Ebuka

In a lighter moment, he hinted at the possibility of an interview with renowned Nigerian media personality Ebuka Obi-Uchendu. While expressing his general dislike for interviews, he wrote, “Ebuka still dey do all those interviews? I no like interview at all, but I go like run 1.” This suggests fans may soon get a deeper insight into Burna Boy’s thoughts and experiences, potentially offering more candid revelations.

A Complex figure

Burna Boy’s post underscores his complexity as a public figure. He is unapologetically authentic, blending positivity with sharp critiques of societal norms. Even if it sparks controversy, his willingness to speak his mind has solidified his position as a leading voice in African music and culture.

As 2025 approaches, his message serves as both a challenge and a call to action. By urging people to embrace honesty and integrity, he sets a standard for himself, his fans, and his peers. Whether through his music or his outspoken remarks, Burna Boy continues to make waves, shaping conversations about culture, identity, and authenticity.

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