Nigerian superstar Burna Boy is making history again, this time landing a spot on the prestigious TIME Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People of 2024” list.
This recognition places Burna Boy, real name Damini Ogulu, among global icons across various fields. The “Icons” category honours his role in catapulting Afrobeats onto the world stage.
Music legend Angelique Kidjo penned the tribute for Burna Boy, crediting him with “making the vision [of global African music acceptance] a reality.”
Kidjo highlighted Burna Boy’s unique sound, rooted in Nigerian folk traditions and carrying on the legacy of Fela Kuti. She emphasised his status as a role model for aspiring African musicians.
“He is history in the making. Now a whole generation of young people from the continent is looking up to him,” stated Kidjo.
This achievement adds to Burna Boy’s string of firsts. In 2023, he became the first African artist to sell out a US stadium, and in 2024, the first Afrobeats artist to perform at the Grammys.
He joins fellow Nigerians, Skepta and Damson Idris, who were also recognised on the list this year.
Since 1999, TIME’s “100 Most Influential People” list has honoured individuals who leave a significant mark on the world.
Burna Boy’s inclusion marks a win not just for him personally, but for Afrobeats music as a whole, solidifying its growing influence on the global music scene.
Ezinwanne Onwuka, senior staff reporter and columnist with WAP is a Nigerian-based writer and content developer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Her interests include reading, writing, researching and graphic designing.
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