Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has sparked debate online after advising his colleagues to set their sights on international success rather than celebrate local achievements.
In a series of posts shared via his Instagram story on Monday, the Afro-fusion star downplayed the value of musical success within Nigeria, particularly in terms of streaming revenue. According to Burna Boy, artists should not be excited about topping local charts, as the financial returns pale in comparison to global platforms.
“1,000,000 Nigerian streams = $300/$400,” he wrote. “1,000,000 UK streams = £3000/£4000, 1,000,000 US streams = $3000/$4000, 1,000,000 Euro streams = €3000/€4000.”
He added, “Your song being number 1 on any streaming platform in Nigeria is not something to celebrate. Aim higher or do other businesses on the side. I type with love. #NoSignOfWeakness.”
The “Last Last” singer also cautioned artists against relying too heavily on social media hype, stating that Twitter polls and Nigerian fans online often fail to translate into physical turnout at concerts or international relevance.
“Dear artists, don’t be fooled by Twitter polls or Nigerian social media fans. They won’t fill a stadium for you anywhere in the world,” he wrote.
Burna Boy, who rose to fame in 2012 with his breakout hit “Like to Party,” has since become one of the most successful African artists globally, earning a Grammy Award and performing on some of the biggest stages worldwide. His comments are the latest in a string of bold statements from the singer, who is known for challenging the status quo within the Nigerian music industry.
While his remarks have stirred mixed reactions online, many fans and fellow musicians acknowledge the harsh realities of revenue disparities in music streaming across different regions. However, critics argue that Burna Boy’s tone undermines the cultural and symbolic importance of local support and success.
His statement comes shortly after his claim that he is now wealthier than some of the legends he once looked up to, further fueling conversation about fame, fortune, and the changing face of African music on the global stage.
