Burna Boy Revisits Afrobeats Lacks Substance Remarks
Burna Boy Afrobeats lacks substance — a statement that stirred online debates — is now being reconsidered by the global star. After facing backlash, the artist has offered insight into what led to those comments and how his understanding has evolved.
Understanding the Burna Boy Afrobeats Lacks Substance Controversy
The artist’s original claim that Afrobeats lacks substance shocked fans. At the time, many took it as a criticism of the entire genre. However, he now admits he didn’t fully see the wider picture when he made that statement. His intention wasn’t to discredit the music but to point out how his sound didn’t quite fit into the Afrobeats label.
Burna Boy has always described his music as Afro-fusion—a mix of Afrobeats, reggae, hip-hop, and dancehall. He felt that the existing music categories didn’t match what he was creating, which led to his frustration. He now understands that the term Afrobeats serves as a global umbrella for African sounds and has helped artists gain international attention.
Growth Behind Burna Boy’s Words
Today, he recognizes that his past words may have caused confusion. “If I had understood how much Afrobeats meant to African unity and identity, I would’ve handled it better,” he shared. While he still sees his music as different, he no longer sees value in tearing down a genre that helped open doors for African artists globally.
The singer also admitted that he once viewed Afrobeats as a limiting label. But now, he sees it as a powerful platform that connects cultures and allows artists to share African stories with the world.
The Power of Labels and Identity in Music
By calling his music Afro-fusion, Burna Boy wasn’t rejecting Afrobeats but creating space for something new. Still, he now knows that unity under a shared name can strengthen the industry. His growth shows that artists must balance personal expression with cultural impact.
Afrobeats is more than a sound. It’s a movement, a voice, and a celebration of African identity. The evolving perspective from a top artist like Burna Boy reflects how labels can shape careers—and how they can also unite people across borders.
What’s Next for Burna Boy
Despite past controversy, Burna Boy continues to make waves. His new album, No Sign of Weakness, features global stars like Mick Jagger and Travis Scott. He’s also preparing for a major tour across Europe and North America.
The renewed appreciation for Afrobeats is clear in his recent tone. His journey serves as a reminder that understanding evolves—and that leaders in the music space have a role in shaping the future of African sound.
Read more about Burna Boy’s approach to Afro-fusion here.
