Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Burna Boy has clarified the role Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti played in shaping his music.
In a recent conversation with tennis superstar Roger Federer, posted on X Thursday, the African Giant explained that while Fela’s albums were a significant part of his musical upbringing, they didn’t directly inspire him to create his own songs.
“Well, Fela was a big influence on me,” Burna Boy said.
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When Federer asked about the “GOAT” albums in his life, Burna Boy listed several: “I’m just going to name a few, right? First album, I got the Joe album for my 10th birthday gift. I got all Fela albums from my granddad. So every Fela album is a GOAT album. Lil Wayne’s The Carter III. Tupac’s, the Machiavelli album.”
Federer then asked, “What inspired you the most?”
Burna Boy replied, “Honestly, none.”
Surprised, Federer said, “Really?”
Burna responded, “No, I promise you.”
His statement surprised many fans, given that he has sampled Fela Kuti in several of his own tracks, including popular songs like Ye, My Money, My Baby, and Gbona.
