Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy has once again stirred conversation online after declaring that Fela Anikulapo Kuti, the late Afrobeat pioneer, is the only African musician greater than him.
The self-acclaimed “African Giant” made the statement during a recent livestream session with Australian content creator Playboymax, where he praised Fela’s unmatched influence on African music.
“He [Fela Kuti] is the king. He is the only one who is greater than me. He is the only one,” Burna Boy said during the live session.
His remark quickly went viral, sparking mixed reactions across social media. While some fans agreed with his confidence and recognition of Fela’s legacy, others criticized the statement as overly self-promotional.
Burna Boy, known for hits such as Last Last and City Boys, has consistently positioned himself as a global ambassador for African music. He has often credited Fela Kuti’s sound and message as a major inspiration for his artistry, though he has also stated in past interviews that Fela didn’t directly influence his musical style.
Despite the controversy, Burna Boy remains one of Africa’s most successful artists, with multiple international awards and sold-out concerts around the world. His latest statement, however, reignites a long-standing debate about who holds the crown among Africa’s greatest musicians.
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