Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy has made it clear that he doesn’t see music as a job; it’s a lifestyle.
The self-proclaimed ‘African Giant’ shared this during a candid conversation with BBC Radio 1Xtra, where he opened up about his deep connection with music and why he feels no need to take time off from it.
Burna Boy, born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, explained that his love for music goes far beyond professional obligations. According to him, performing and creating music isn’t something he does for work; it’s something he lives for.
“I love my job,” he said during the interview. “But honestly, I don’t even consider it a job. I see it as my life.”
He emphasised that music is not a task he clocks in and out of, nor is it something he needs a break from. For Burna Boy, music is as natural as breathing, and stepping away from it feels unnecessary.
When asked if he ever considers going on vacation, Burna Boy responded with a laugh. He believes that people only take vacations when they need a break from stressful or physically demanding work, not from doing what they love.
“Why do I need a vacation from life?” he asked. “It’s not like I’m a bricklayer or a labourer. That’s the kind of work you need to rest from, not when you’re Burna Boy.”
He added that if he weren’t already a music artist, he would still choose to live the same way. For him, being on stage, creating songs, and touring the world doesn’t feel like a duty. It feels like a dream he’s living every day.
The ‘Odogwu’ crooner also shared that unless something significant changed in his life, like becoming a parent or growing older, he sees no reason to take time off from music.
“I don’t even have a kid,” he pointed out. “So, there’s really nothing I’m vacationing for.”
He noted that the only time he might consider slowing down is when age or family responsibilities demand it. But for now, his focus remains on music and everything that comes with it.
Burna Boy’s comments shine a light on the passion and commitment that drive his music career. Since breaking onto the global scene, he has consistently released chart-topping hits and sold-out shows across continents. His dedication is evident in both his performances and the quality of his work.
His Grammy win for Twice as Tall and nominations for several other awards reflect the hard work he puts into his craft. Still, he doesn’t view any of it as stressful or exhausting, but only as fulfilling.
For Burna Boy, music isn’t about fame, awards, or commercial success alone. It’s about expression, culture, and living a meaningful life. He has often used his songs to speak on social issues, connect with his African roots, and celebrate black excellence.
He believes that when you’re truly passionate about something, it doesn’t wear you out; it energises you.
Closing the interview, Burna Boy stressed that if he were given a second chance at life, he would still choose the same path.
“My job is literally a lifestyle,” he said. “It’s what I would wish to do if I wasn’t already doing it.”
In a world where burnout is common and many people crave time off from their daily grind, Burna Boy’s perspective offers a refreshing take. To him, music isn’t something to escape from; it’s something to embrace fully.
And that, perhaps, is the secret to his staying power in the music industry.
Read Also: Burna Boy: ‘I’m getting older, it’s time to have my kids’
