Award-winning Nigerian musician, Burna Boy. Picture: Instagram.
The global resonance of African music continues to captivate audiences worldwide, with its vibrant rhythms and unique fusion of genres.
Among the artists leading this movement is Grammy Award-winning artist, Burna Boy (real name Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu).
To celebrate the fifth anniversary of his critically acclaimed album, “African Giant”, the Nigerian musician will give a special performance on YouTube Music Nights on Friday, July 26.
Through a blend of performance videos, live streams and shorts content, this series of music showcases on the online video sharing platform empowers artists to showcase their craft and get closer to fans.
“The YouTube Music Nights program places global superstar artists on intimate stages, creating an electrifying, money-can’t-buy experience and live video content that celebrates the unique connection between artists and their fans,” a statement explained.
“YouTube Music Nights presents Burna Boy” will be filmed in the UK and will be live streamed on his channel for fans around the world to enjoy.
Burna Boy, who boasts 5 million subscribers on YouTube, said: “This album holds a special place in my heart as it represents a pivotal moment in my career and a powerful statement of African pride”.
He added that performing these songs for fans is a reminder of his journey so far and the cultural impact that he has made together with his followers.
“I’m grateful to YouTube Music for helping us create this memorable event and to all my fans for their unwavering support. Here’s to many more years of making music that resonates and inspires.”
Meanwhile, head of music at YouTube in Africa, Addy Awofisayo, added that the event exemplifies the platform’s commitment to showcasing the best global music and connects artists with fans in unique and meaningful ways.
“Burna Boy’s artistry and impact are undeniable and we can’t wait for the world to experience this special performance,” he said.
With his fusion of dancehall, reggae, Afrobeats and pop, Burna Boy is one of Africa’s most celebrated stars.
He released his full-length debut offering, “L.I.F.E”, in 2013 and followed it with several albums over the next five years.
The African artist has also collaborated with top artists such as J Hus, Fall Out Boy and Lily Allen.
Meanwhile, in 2019, “African Giant” marked his international breakthrough, earning him a nomination for Best World Music Album at the 62nd Grammy Awards.
His follow-up album, “Twice as Tall” (2020), reached #54 on the Billboard 200 and #11 in the UK Album Chart, winning him the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album.
Burna Boy continued his winning streak with “Love, Damini” (2022) and earned his first #1 in the UK with his latest album, “I Told Them...”, in 2023.
He has also made history by becoming the first Nigerian artist to sell out the prestigious Madison Square Garden in New York and the O2 Arena in London.
∎ Catch “YouTube Music Nights presents Burna Boy” on his YouTube channel on Friday, July 26, at 7pm, SA time.