Nigerian sensation Burna Boy has once again taken the music scene by storm with the release of his highly anticipated album, I Told Them. This 15-track masterpiece is a blend of Afrobeat rhythms, R&B melodies, and hip-hop influences, showcasing Burna Boy’s signature style that has continued to shake up the world. In the past few weeks, Burna Boy’s built up the anticipation with a handful of singles. He held down the summer with the release of “Talibans II” alongside Byron Messia and shared the 21 Savage-assisted banger, “Sittin On Top Of The World.”
I Told Them finds Burna Boy diving deeper into hip-hop influences more so than in the past. In addition to 21 Savage, he enlisted J. Cole who appears on “Thanks,” which is apparently one of two collaborations they have together. Additionally, he called on British rap titan Dave, who he previously collaborated with on “Location,” for their new collab, “Cheat On Me.” However, it doesn’t stop there. The Wu-Tang Clan’s presence is felt across the project as both RZA and GZA appear on the project on “12 Jewels” and the title track, respectively.
In the past few years, Burna Boy’s helped usher African sounds into the United States. His consistency transformed him into a trailblazer in the music industry, one that has undoubtedly played a role in major labels’ newfound interest in Afrobeats. Since the release of projects like African Giant and Twice As Tall, Burna Boy has continued to elevate his career through his global appeal, especially with his ability to integrate different sounds into his own.
During a recent interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music, Burna Boy explained the significance of the title. “This one is for the part of my own home and the people in my own home who didn’t believe or doubt it, or still doubt, or any type of thing. And not just them, it’s like everyone that ever heard me speak in the past or when I’d first started,” he explained. “You can go back to my old tweets and stuff. I basically predicted everything that’s happening now. So this is basically that. It’s fun to tell people something is true, and they doubt, and then they end up seeing it. There’s no greater feeling.” Check out the project above.
The latest criticisms against Latto have been all about the Atlanta-based artist seemingly taking a little too much inspiration from her contemporaries, such as Ice Spice and Sexyy Red. She doesn’t seem too bothered by the hate, especially given the success the 24-year-old has found with all of her recent releases. She and K-Pop sensation Jungkook broke countless records with their “Seven” collab, and not long before that she and Cardi B gave us the Song of the Summer with “Put It On Da Floor Again.”
This New Music Friday (August 18), Latto is back with more heat. She hopped on the remix of Davido and Musa Keys’ “UNAVAILABLE,” which first arrived on the Afrobeats artist’s Timeless LP at the end of March. It’s since racked up over 65M streams on Spotify, as well as a Major Lazer remix. For her part, the 777 hitmaker joined the rapper and producer to spit about taking note of the toxicity she deals with from others in her life.
Davido & Musa Keys’ “UNAVAILABLE [Remix]” Gets the Latto Treatment
“Unavailable, unapproachable, out of reach / I got ninety-nine problems and it’s never me,” the blonde beauty‘s verse begins. “Out here dragging that wagon like a f**king G / You took everything from me but accountability, tuh,” she continues before turning up the heat a notch. “To have Latto, an incredible artist who we all love jump on the record, bringing her incredible energy to this song is pretty special and I can’t wait to see everyone having a good time all year round to this song,” Davido said of his experience working with her, as per Uproxx.
Check out the bars that Latto brought to Davido and Musa Keys’ “UNAVAILABLE [Remix]” above. Make sure to add it to your Spotify/Apple Music playlist if you’re feeling the new collab. To see what the rappers got to cooking up (literally) during their time in the studio together, click the link below.
Unavailable, unapproachable, out of reach I got ninety-nine problems and it’s never me Out here dragging that wagon like a f**king G You took everything from me but accountability, tuh
Burna Boy’s career can be likened to a spark becoming a flame that burns with the intensity of a true artist. Born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, Burna Boy spent his early years in Nigeria. He honed his musical talents there and absorbed the cultural richness that would later influence his music. His pursuit of musical mastery led him to accumulate an impressive $22 million net worth in 2023, according to Fresherslive.
Blazing New Trails: Burna Boy’s Fiery Accomplishments
Singer, songwriter and producer Burna Boy performs on stage at Lowlands, Biddinghuizen, Netherlands 21st August 2022(Photo by Paul Bergen/Redferns)
Burna Boy’s entrance into the music scene was anything but timid. With a fusion of reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeats, he crafted his own brand of music. This gained him fame with tracks like “Ye” from his third studio album Outside. His efforts were also recognized globally with his fourth album, African Giant. This acclaimed work, nominated for a Grammy, highlighted his broadening appeal. It also established him as an international force in the music industry. Burna Boy then took the torch and ran with it, further solidifying his prominence with his Grammy-winning album, Twice as Tall.
Ember Within: Burna Boy’s Personal Highlights
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 27: (L-R) Lil Durk and Burna Boy attend the BET Awards 2021. At Microsoft Theater on June 27, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for BET)
Behind the fiery persona, Burna Boy’s personal life is imbued with richness and depth. Steeped in the traditions of his homeland, he takes great pride in his Nigerian roots. Burna often incorporates local dialects into his music, bringing Nigerian culture to an international stage. Despite being a global star, he’s retained a strong sense of self and his African heritage. His songs are a form of self-expression and a beacon of cultural pride. They showcase the beauty and diversity of Africa to the world.
Burna Boy performs live prior the UEFA Champions League final match. Between Manchester City FC and FC Internazionale at Ataturk Olympic Stadium, Istanbul, Turkey on June 10, 2023. (Photo by Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Outside the recording studio, Burna Boy’s impact is also felt in his humanitarian efforts. He’s contributed considerably to various causes, notably aiding in the fight against SARS and advocating for justice and equality. His REACH NG initiative, launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, delivered food and other essentials to families in need throughout Nigeria. This commitment to philanthropy further illustrates Burna Boy’s dedication to uplifting his community and his desire to use his influence for meaningful change. His financial and emotional investments in these causes amplify the true essence of his character.
Crescendo: Burna Boy’s Fiery Legacy
LONDON, ENGLAND – JUNE 03: Burna Boy performs at London Stadium on June 03, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Burak Cingi/Redferns)
The flame that is Burna Boy continues to burn bright, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of music. He’s more than just a musician – he is a symbol of cultural pride, a philanthropist, and an influencer of global proportions. From a hopeful artist in Nigeria to a globally recognized icon with a net worth of $22 million, his journey encapsulates the essence of perseverance and passion. It’s also a melody of resilience, creativity, and ambition that reverberates far beyond the confines of music.
Burna Boy’s story serves as an inspiration, a reminder of the power of music as a cultural messenger, and a testament to the heights one can achieve when talent is combined with tenacity. Overall, through his music and actions, Burna Boy continues to stoke the embers of inspiration for the coming generation of artists.
J Hus has finally announced the release date for his highly anticipated third studio album, Beautiful And Brutal Yard, due out on July 14. Beautiful And Brutal Yard contains Naira Marley, Jorja Smith, Burna Boy, Popcaan, as well as the previously released “Who Told You” featuring Drake. J Hus may be only 28 years old, but his music has proven to be influential on the UK scene and impactful on a global scale. The Afroswing subgenre that he helped pioneer propelled modern afrobeats into becoming one of the biggest sounds in pop music, completely reshaping the UK rap scene.
One of the UK’s most versatile artists, J Hus’s albums combine an eclectic mix of genres, including afro swing, dancehall, hip hop, and UK garage. So far, there have been two singles from Beautiful and Brutal Yard: the pulsing “It’s Crazy” and the groovy “Who Told You.” Based on what we have heard so far, it is safe to assume that Hus’s new album will be varied and not at all disappointing.
To commemorate J Hus’s return and forthcoming release, we compiled a list ranking his top 5 best songs. Drawing from his two previous studio albums, which are both widely considered classics, the selections are ranked from least greatest to greatest. Take a look at the list below.
5. “Helicopter” feat. iceé tgm (2020)
“Helicopter” is one of many highlights from J Hus’s previous album, 2020’s Big Conspiracy. The song ominously builds into a TSB-produced blend of hip-hop and afrobeats. In the lyrics, Hus paints vivid images of feds in a helicopter. He even gets metaphorical when he raps, “I’ve seen pigs fly but I’ve never seen a unicorn.” The minimal production of “Helicopter” goes along with the depictions in the song’s content. Iceé tgm, J Hus’s sister who also appears on Big Conspiracy’s title track, dazzles with a catchy chorus.
4. “Deeper Than Rap” (2020)
“Deeper Than Rap” is possibly J Hus’s best rap performance ever. He may be known for his melodic Afroswing anthems and catchy road raps, but this song sees him being more vulnerable than ever. Over a soothing yet epic instrumental, J Hus is at his most introspective as he reflects on his time in prison. He also speaks to subjects of systemic racism, colorism, and his own internal struggles.
3. “Play Play” feat. Burna Boy (2020)
J Hus and Burna Boy have collaborated numerous times, including on “Good Time,” “Sekkle Down,” and “Cloak & Dagger.” While they have a history of making a banger every time they link, “Play Play” is easily their greatest collaboration. It may be more relaxed than their previous tracks, but the song’s slow rhythm plays to both of their strengths.
Over a Jae5-produced beat that feels like summer, Burna Boy provides his catchy choruses that never fail to get stuck in one’s head. In his verses, J Hus weaves in metaphors that allude to weapons in a sexual manner, a concept that Burna Boy also sticks to. It makes for clever wordplay and results in an irresistible hit. Songs like this set high hopes for J Hus and Burna Boy’s forthcoming collaboration. “Play Play” is one of the major hits from Big Conspiracy, currently certified gold and peaking at No. 7 on the UK R&B charts.
2. “Did You See” (2017)
“Did You See” is easily J Hus’s biggest hit and just might be the biggest song to come from the entire Afroswing movement. The simple yet bouncy rhythm established the chemistry between J Hus and Jae5. It allows Hus to shine with his wit and charisma. J Hus floats over the instrumental, rapping melodically about his effortless swag with unique slang. On the hook, he boasts, “Did you see what I done? Came in a black Benz, left in a white one.”
Almost every part of the song is catchy and is almost impossible not to dance or sing along to when it comes on. “Did You See” has become a UK classic and one of the most impactful songs of the Afroswing subgenre. It is an undeniable hit that remains J Hus’s biggest song to date, peaking at No. 9 on the overall UK charts. It is now certified 3x platinum.
“Common Sense” is the ultimate intro to J Hus’s debut album of the same name. Jae5 handles the vintage yet modern-sounding hip-hop beat that allows for J Hus to make his grand entrance. J Hus switches between rapping and singing, showing his versatility. He changes between flows, sounding hungrier than ever. While it may not be the signature melodic Afroswing sound that he is known for, “Common Sense” is still quintessentially J Hus. The bars are humorous and braggadocious. “Common Sense” introduced the world to J Hus’s unique rapping style and culture that has since taken over the UK. The song peaked at No. 12 on the UK R&B charts and is currently certified silver.
Fresh off their collaborative single, “Sprinter,” UK rappers Dave and Central Cee released a surprise collaborative EP, Split Decision. The four-song project features the aforementioned “Sprinter” as well as “Our 25th Birthday,” which continues Dave’s “birthday” song series. Central Cee is one of the most notable rising artists in the UK Drill scene, while Dave has established himself as one of the UK’s biggest rap superstars. With two critically acclaimed studio albums under his belt, he has earned the Mercury Prize and multiple BRIT Awards. Highly regarded as one of the best rappers in the UK, Dave has a knack for collaboration, of which this new Split Decision EP is a prime example. He has worked with some of the biggest UK and Afrobeats artists and has worked with Drake.
This is a list of Dave’s best collaborations, including his own songs with other artists and tracks on which he is featured. Many of these consist of Dave and other rappers from the UK. Others include songs with famous Afrobeats artists. Take a look at the list below, ranked from least to greatest.
7. Avelino feat. Dave – “Cassius Clay” (2019)
Before working together on “Cassius Clay,”Dave and Avelino previously teamed up in 2017 for “U Can Stand Up / Royal.” The two acclaimed lyricists have mutual respect, as Dave once called Avelino “one of the best rappers [he’s] ever seen.” Over the captivating yet intense instrumental, Avelino sets the bar incredibly high by spitting one of his all-time best verses.
With immaculate wordplay, compelling metaphors, and various flows, following a verse as impressive as Avelino’s is hard. Immediately after the two-minute verse, Dave’s approach is more relaxed but still lyrically potent. He raps, “Lately I see a lot of man tryna play me / I ain’t an escort but it’s f*ck you, pay me.” Each verse is of the highest quality, making “Cassius Clay” one of Dave’s best collaborations with another rapper.
6. Dave & AJ Tracey – “Thiago Silva” (2016)
Before Dave and AJ Tracey would become two of the UK’s biggest rappers, they teamed up for “Thiago Silva,” which is historic for several reasons. Dave and AJ Tracey make UK hip hop, but “Thiago Silva” is a grime song, sampling Ruff Sqwad’s classic “Pied Piper” riddim. The two were part of a new generation of up-and-coming UK artists that made a classic grime track.
Dave and AJ Tracey trade verses back and forth on the song, showing their undeniable chemistry. Though the two moved away from making grime music, “Thiago Silva” is still historic. The song is well-known for its role in Dave’s live performances, where he invites fans, including me, onstage to perform AJ’s lyrics with him. The song notably went viral after Dave’s 2019 Glastonbury performance after he pulled a fan onstage.
In addition to his collaborations with other rappers, some of Dave’s best and biggest songs are collaborations with Afrobeats artists. “System” from his second album, 2021’s We’re All Alone In This Together, features Wizkid. The song’s festive production from P2J and melodic vocals from Wizkid make for a perfect summer song. In a verse, rhyming letters can often be too basic, but Dave utilizes abbreviations to make some killer punchlines. He raps, “She wanna do SMS / Not save my soul, that’s spend my savings.”
4. Dave feat. Burna Boy – “Location” (2019)
Before teaming up with Wizkid for “System,” Dave and Burna Boy created magic with “Location.” The Fraser T. Smith and Jae5-produced single is both Dave and Burna Boy’s biggest song to date. It currently sits at 4x Platinum status in the UK. The song sees the two reveling in their successes, making for a triumphant hit.
3. Giggs feat. Dave – “Straight Murder (Giggs & David)” (2020)
In 2017, Giggs’s song “Peligro” featured a show-stealing verse from Dave. Three years later, the two teamed up once again for another hook-less track. In comparison to “Peligro,” “Straight Murder (Giggs & David)” surpasses it in every way. The track is even stronger than their first collaboration as Dave spits his greatest guest verse.
While not outshining Dave, Giggs does not slouch, as his verse on “Straight Murder” is one of his best. Over a menacing instrumental, Dave raps for almost three minutes, firing some of his toughest punchlines. One of his coldest lines on the song is when he raps, “Mice, talking heavy, I’ll do my man like George and Lennie.” Giggs’s verse also almost reaches the three-minute mark, delivering his signature pause-and-resume flow with humorous pop culture references.
“Clash” is an all-star collaboration between Dave and Stormzy, two of the UK’s biggest names. Over a fiery UK drill instrumental, Dave floats over the beat with a laidback flow, while Stormzy’s verse is extremely animated. The song gets exciting when the beat suddenly changes during Stormzy’s verse, leading to a back-and-forth between the two. During this trade-off, Dave raps one of his most famous lines: “Don’t get caught for pus, don’t die for nyash.” “Clash” marks the meeting of two of the UK’s most prominent rappers and is also one of Dave’s biggest hits.
1. Dave feat. Fredo, Meekz, Ghetts & Giggs – “In The Fire” (2021)
“In The Fire” is an unprecedented posse cut between newcomers and legends alike. The song’s gospel-sampling instrumental is so gorgeous that it might give the listener chills. The beat is a highlight, but Dave recruits young talent and respected legends in the UK scene. In all five verses, each rapper takes a unique approach to being “tried in the fire,” rapping about how they overcame their respective struggles. The song is full of lyrical gems.
Frequent Dave collaborator Fredo ends the first verse rapping about escaping through the fire escape right before Meekz raps, “Before my entrance, I took the fire exit.” The song gets even more exciting when the beat changes percussion for UK legend Ghetts’s stunning verse. He continues with the theme of making it through the fire, rapping, “So accustomed to the fire, I get shivers when I’m naked in the sauna.” Giggs joins the track for another highlight right before Dave closes the song.
The four features set the standard for Dave, but he keeps up with ease. He raps, “You can hide or glide, I could’ve been deported / That’s the definition of a ‘Fight-or-flight.’” There have not been many posse cuts of multiple generations of UK rappers, making Dave’s “In The Fire” so historic.
Nigeria’s music scene has blossomed immensely in recent years, and young talent Rema is a star that shines brightly.
Rema Net Worth
As of 2023, according to Clacified, Rema’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million.
Understanding The Net Worth
BARCELONA, SPAIN – JUNE 01: Nigerian rapper Rema performs in concert during the day 2 of Primavera Sound Barcelona 2023 on June 01, 2023 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Xavi Torrent/Redferns)
Born Divine Ikubor, Rema emerged from Benin City, Nigeria, and swiftly climbed the ranks of the music industry. His blend of Afrobeats, pop, and trap music has captivated audiences globally, contributing to his burgeoning net worth.
Rema’s entrance into the industry started with signing with Jonzing World, a subsidiary of Marvin Records, in 2019. His eponymous debut EP, released the same year, introduced him to the world, setting a strong foundation for his increasing wealth.
The artist’s net worth has grown alongside his popularity. His signature sound, catchy hooks, and unique style have led to several chart-topping hits. This success has resulted in lucrative performance bookings, brand endorsements, and streaming revenue.
Rema and Freestyle, his first two EPs, gave him significant recognition, along with Bad Commando. Barack Obama even included Rema’s hit single, “Iron Man” on his 2019 summer playlist, demonstrating his international appeal and potential for increased earnings.
Rema’s Brand Endorsements And Investments
MIAMI, FLORIDA – MAY 28: Rema performs onstage during day two of Afro Nation Miami 2023 at LoanDepot Park on May 28, 2023 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Jason Koerner/Getty Images)
Brand endorsements are a significant income source for the rapper. Reputable brands have called on Rema’s star power for marketing campaigns, like Pepsi, who enlisted him as one of its brand ambassadors in 2020. Such partnerships have contributed to the growth of Rema’s net worth.
Moreover, he has shown business acumen by investing his earnings wisely. Although specific details about his investments are not publicly known, his financial growth indicates strategic money management.
As with many stars, Rema’s lifestyle reflects his success. His unique style, including his trendy outfits, further showcases his wealth, along with his love for sneakers.
However, Rema is also recognized for his philanthropy. He frequently gives back to his community, reflecting a commitment to using his wealth for positive impact.
Nigerian musician Rema performs during the half time show of the NBA All-Star game between Team Giannis and Team LeBron at the Vivint arena in Salt Lake City, Utah, February 19, 2023. (Photo by Patrick T. Fallon / AFP) (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images)
Considering the rapper’s upward trajectory, it’s likely his net worth will continue to grow. His music has global appeal, and his creative versatility ensures his relevance in a rapidly evolving industry.
In 2021, Rema released his debut album, Rave & Roses, which has further solidified his standing in the music world. As he continues to explore different sounds and collaborations, Rema’s net worth promises to reflect his rising star.
Conclusion/TLDR
In conclusion, Rema’s journey in the music industry has been both exciting and lucrative. At just 22 years old, the artist has a net worth of $1 million, and it’s only the beginning. His talent, creativity, and business ventures hint at an even brighter and wealthier future.
Afro Nation is a relatively new festival but it’s already expanding rapidly — just like the genre it aims to highlight. While the first edition took place in Portugal in 2022, Afro Nation just held its first stateside event in Miami ahead of its return to Europe this summer. Ahead of this weekend’s festivities in Miami, Afro Nation has revealed its next expansion. On August 19 and 29, Afro Nation is taking over the former site of the Brewster-Douglass public housing projects in Detroit, Michigan for its third event of the year.
As with its prior show in Miami, AND will be headlined by Burna Boy, although Wizkid will be replaced with Davido, while they’ll be supported by US stars like Ari Lennox, Coi Leray, Latto, and Masego, as well as rising Nigerian stars Kizz Daniel and sibling duo P-Square. And just like prior iterations, the Detroit event will have an Amapiano stage to showcase some of the South African dance genre’s flourishing DJs along with a comedy show, block party, discussions and panels, and something called a Motown special, paying homage to the city’s musical roots.
Tickets are due to go on sale on Friday, June 2. You can get more information at Afro Nation’s Detroit website.
Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
