In the vibrant world of Dancehall, where rhythm meets rivalry, a heated online feud between Stefflon Don and Jada Kingdom has escalated to shocking levels. The two talented artists, known for their fiery verses, are now engaged in a rap battle that has delved into personal accusations. Including claims of sacrificing family for fame. The drama has unfolded on social media, with diss tracks, warnings, and a desire to take the beef from the internet to the streets. The root of the dispute? Moreover, both Stefflon Don and Jada Kingdom reportedly share a romantic history with Nigerian superstar Burna Boy. However, over the past three days, their feud has played out on various social media platforms, accompanied by the release of petty diss tracks aimed at each other.
However, things took a dark turn when Kingdom dropped a fiery track titled “Steff Lazarus” on January 10. Accusing Stefflon Don of sacrificing her brother and father, and making other sensational claims. Stefflon Don, in response, vehemently denied all the allegations, addressing Kingdom as “Twinki” and expressing her lack of respect for the lies told in the diss track. Moreover, the 32-year-old rapper warned Kingdom about the dangerous game she was playing, urging her to come forward and face the consequences.
However, denouncing the “made-up stories” in Kingdom’s diss track, Stefflon Don called for a physical confrontation. Challenging her rival to step outside and fight. She criticized the lies being spread, emphasizing the impact on her son who would hear these false allegations. The Birmingham-bred artist questioned the ethics of making such claims for social media likes and urged Kingdom to spend time with her alleged new boo, Pardison Fontaine. Jada Kingdom, however, stood her ground during an Instagram Live session, asserting that she thoroughly researched and fact-checked the claims made in her song.
Moreover, she maintained that every statement was truthful and accused Stefflon Don of playing the victim card. As the feud continues to unfold, the Dancehall community watches with bated breath, torn between the entertainment value and the unsettling reality of personal accusations. The online drama has taken an unexpected turn into a realm where music clashes with personal lives, leaving fans wondering how this explosive saga will play out in the days to come. Let us know your thoughts on HNHH!
This time of the year is usually a season of new beginnings, but for singers Stefflon Don and Jada Kingdom, it has been a time for the airing of grievances. The two artists have spent the week exchanging shots at each other in a feud that has drawn in Nigerian superstar Burna Boy and spawned a never-ending stream of reactions from fans. So, here’s an explanation of the players and how it all went down.
Who Is Stefflon Don?
Stefflon Don is a British-Jamaican rapper and singer whose 2017 breakout included appearances on tracks with the likes of Lil Yachty and French Montana and a MOBO Awards win for Best Female artist. She was featured on the 2018 XXL Freshman cover, and has continued to release singles throughout the past few years. She dated Burna Boy from 2019-2021, which is relevant to her feud with Jada Kingdom.
Who Is Jada Kingdom?
Jada Kingdom is a Jamaican dancehall singer who has gained popularity over the past four years thanks to high-profile collabs with artists like Popcaan and Skillibeng, with her most recent EP, Love Experience, dropping early this week. Her debut album, Twinkle will likely release sometime this year. She was romantically connected with Burna Boy in 2023, but has more recently been linked with Pardison Fontaine after his break from Megan Thee Stallion.
Why Do Stefflon Don And Jada Kingdom Have Beef?
On Tuesday (January 9), Stefflon Don released a new song, “Dat A Dat,” in which she slags off an unidentified female rival, accusing her of substance abuse, high body count, and selling her body for favors like jet trips. While she does not name Jada Kingdom specifically, the implication is that their time with shared beau Burna Boy may have had some overlap.
In any case, hit dogs holler, and Jada Kingdom may have felt like Stefflon Don was calling her out. She released her own track later that day, called “London Bed,” and cut through any ambiguity by making the artwork a photo of Steff with her eyes Xed out. She appears to respond, calling out the Londoner to “buss a move an’ meet mi anyweh.”
Today, Steff woke up and chose violence, coming back with her own response song, “Deadgyal Walking.” Like Jada, she dispenses with any pleasantries, getting right to the point — which is that she doesn’t think much of her would-be rival. The disses continue in much the same vein as “Dat A Dat,” accusing Jada of being a… shall we say, “loose woman.”
While Jada has yet to respond to this latest diss track, she doesn’t seem too invested in the beef to begin with. She had already seemingly moved on Tuesday, dropping an unrelated single called “Big Buddy,” as if to suggest she has more important things to do. She also said during a live she wasn’t sweating Burna Boy, who she deems kind of a hoe.
Jada Kingdom wants to know if Stefflon don is talking bout her when she said she’ll “box” somebody. Clarifies she doesn’t beef over men so if that was a diss, Steff needs to come harder.
City Boy’s up or nah? Burna Boy might be one of the most beloved musicians in the world right now but he’s found himself in some trouble with the ladies, namely his Jada Kingdom and Stefflon Don. While the Nigerian artist was once openly dating Stefflon Don, he recently sang about his affinity for Jada Kingdom on Byron Messia’s “Taliban (Remix),” including a Birkin Bag that he purchased for her. Months later, it appears that Don and Jada Kingdom have taken their issues with one another on wax.
Earlier this week, Stefflon Don shared her new song, “Dat A Dat,” where she alleges that an unnamed woman slept with her partner. However, given Burna Boy’s alleged romance with Jada Kingdom, it didn’t take long for her to respond to Stefflon seemingly. Jada initially denied having any sort of romantic relationship with Burna Boy. However, after leaving several comments regarding Stefflon Don’s song, Kingdom called the beef weird. “It’s weird, because it’s behind a man… this n***a is for everybody. Last year she pass har remarks, I said nothing,” she said. Ultimately, Jada said that the only part about the song that concerned her surrounded the alleged threats made by Stefflon.
While Stefflon Don made her points heard on “Dat A Dat,” Jada Kingdom later took their issues to wax with a response record. Using Byron Messia’s “Taliban (Remix)” instrumental, she fired back with the release of “London Bed,” where she spits lines like “Buss a move an meet mi anyweh, you coward like puss yu nu bad from noweh.” At this point, we haven’t heard from Stefflon Don but Kingdom made her voice heard in this feud.
Despite Burna Boy being the focal point of this feud, Jada Kingdom is currently linked to Pardison Fontaine. After dropping the song, she explained on her IG story that she only responded “for my respect and for the culture.” She added, “she’s the only one beefing over a man I clearly don’t want.” So far, Burna Boy hasn’t chimed in on the matter but we suspect he’ll likely keep mum on the feud as long as it’s in the headlines.
so apparently Jada said: – Steff Brother is a p*do -She sucks dick up and down – She ppps pills and they’ve shitted on her face -Burna didn’t want to be a stepdad -Burna is a mama’s boy -Steff has to fuck to get features in Jamaica because she owes men money -Steff has a…
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 2024, 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.
Stefflon Don got a pretty big birthday surprise recently, and it even had fans digging up some potential tea here. Moreover, she recently got a new Rolls-Royce from a mystery man, and seemed incredibly appreciative of it on social media. “Deadly music video w/ @vict0ny drops Monday!” the “Run Through” MC wrote as the caption of a post briefly showing off the vehicle’s interior. “& To my man thank you to my man I loves youuuuuu [heart-covered smile emoji] [red heart emoji].” Of course, this begs the question for many fans online: who is this secret admirer of hers, and when are we going to find out who it is?
Furthermore, many fans theorized that this could’ve been a gift from her ex Burna Boy. The two broke up sometime in 2022, and since then, he has been romantically linked to Jada Kingdom. However, this didn’t stop fans from immediately assuming that the Afrobeat artist could’ve “spun the block” and gone back to Stefflon Don at some point. It’s important to note that, by any metric possible, there’s no real proof of this being the case. But since when have folks turned down spicy narratives?
Regardless, we know that Burna Boy in particular is no stranger to doing things his own way and eschewing what’s typically accepted in society. As such, maybe it’s fans who also see this quality in him that are assuming he could’ve gifted Stefflon Don this Rolls-Royce. For example, the Nigerian superstar turned down a $5 million offer to perform in Dubai because the contractors wouldn’t let him smoke weed. Many folks blasted this choice when it went viral online, but you can’t deny that his resolve and commitment to his values became quite clear.
Meanwhile, the Don caught some controversy earlier this year for penning a letter in support of Tory Lanez. That quickly vanished, though, as it became clear that not every letter came in an equally supportive manner. We’ll see whether we get any clarifications on this mystery man in the near future. For more news and the latest updates on Stefflon Don and Burna Boy, stick around on HNHH.
Today’s afrobeats scene is arguably in the best condition its been in a while simply because the new artists on the block are having as much success as the genre’s “older” generation. As Davido and Burna Boy saw viral moments through their releases this year, Rema and Asake enjoyed the same for themselves. The success isn’t only reserved for the men in the genre. Names like Ayra Starr, Tyla, Teni, and Tems are more than deserving of their place in the spotlight. In fact, it’s demanded.
As for 2023, afrobeats welcomed back artists who’d been absent from the scene for some time. Davido returned to release one of the best albums of the year with Timeless while Mr Eazi took on the role of The Evil Genius for his long-awaited debut. Other acts wasted no time getting back to work after releasing their previous projects. Asake (Work Of Art), Adekunle Gold (Tequila Ever After), and Blaqbonez (Emeka Must Shine) are examples of artists who make quick returns to the scene. Outside of these aforementioned names are artists who’ve established themselves immensely talents who found away to the top of afrobeats in 2023.
With that being said here are the ten best afrobeats albums of 2023 in alphabetical order:
Adekunle Gold — Tequila Ever After
Def Jam Recordings
This year seemed to be the year of quick returns for a few afrobeats artists. Burna Boy and Asake are among those who returned with projects after a short break and Adekunle Gold also joined that list this year with his fifth album Tequila Ever After. It’s always a joy to watch artists find the fun in their music again, and that’s exactly what happened with Adekunle Gold on this album. The album uses vibrant production as its canvas as Adekunle paints with moments of falling in love, dancing under the spotlight, and simply enjoying what life has blessed him with. It’s a toast to now and forever as well as motivation to find a level of enjoyment in your life comparable to what Adekunle indulges in. – W.O.
Asake — Work Of Art
YBNL Nation/Empire Distribution
After establishing himself as one of the best newcomers in afrobeats in 2022, Asake used 2023 to prove that his success is far from a moment, but rather, the starting moments of a long-lasting career. His second album Work Of Art, arrived just nine months after his stellar debut Mr. Money With The Vibe and it exercises the same winning formula that put Asake in the spotlight. The Nigerian star returns as triumphant, spiritual, and grateful as ever, and with Work Of Art, we get a slightly altered painting that is altered enough to be something new worth paying attention to, all while using the same paintbrush and colors. In the end, this formula provided records like the Grammy-nominated “Amapiano” and the fan-favorite “Lonely At The Top” that will go down as one of the best offerings in Asake’s discography. – W.O.
Blaqbonez — Emeka Must Shine
Chocolate City Music
Behind giants like Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy lives an immensely talented class of young afrobeats artists who represent the genre’s stars of tomorrow. Nigerian’s own Blaqbonez, born Emeka Akumefule, in that class, an honor he proved he was worthy of with the 2022 release of Young Preacher. Blaqbonez doubles down on that with Emeka Must Shine, his third album in as many years. The project that bears his legal name is one that Blaqbonez uses to showcase his elevation and versatility as an artist. Introspection lives through “Road Runners” as much as his free spirit and desire to enjoy life do on “Like Ice Spice” and “6 Bizness Days.” It’s these unique aspects and Blaqbonez’s ability to tie them together in a cohesive manner that allow him to shine, just like his third album’s title says he must do. – W.O.
Burna Boy — I Told Them…
Atlantic
Burna Boy has never really favored humility, but when you’ve spent the bulk of your career proving your doubters wrong, how could you favor it? When success as an afrobeats artist was doubted, he proved them wrong. When he was told global stardom was out of reach, he did all he could to grab it. When he was denied awards, he found a way to give an acceptance speech with an award in hand. Burna Boy relishes in his accomplishments on his sixth album I Told Them…, and though there isn’t a stark difference or a new approach for this project, moments like “City Boys,” “Dey Play,” and “Tested, Approved & Trusted” highlight the Burna Boy we love. On the flip side, “Sittin’ On Top Of The World” and “Big 7” capture the global ambassador Burna strives to be. There’s no doubting Burna’s success, but in case you decide to, I Told Them… is proof of the progress. – W.O.
Crayon — Trench To Triumph
Mavin Global Holdings Ltd./Blowtime Entertainment
Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records contains a roster of talent that many labels would be envious of. The label’s most recognizable faces are Rema and Ayra Starr, but in 2023, Crayon emerged as an eligible candidate to complete a “big three” within the label thanks to his debut album Trench To Triumph. A true rags to riches story, as its title suggests, Crayon displays his spirituality, past struggles, current impressive talents, and future potential all within the project’s 13 songs. Whether it be afrobeats with “Trench Kid” and the semi-viral “Ngozi” or amapiano with “Ijo Laba” and “The One (Chop Life),” Crayon uses it all to paint the world he came from. You may not have expected Crayon to have one of afrobeats’ best albums in 2023, but going forward, that should be the expectation in future years. – W.O.
Davido — Timeless
Sony
Davido’s absence from the afrobeats world over the past couple of years, though it was respected, was surely felt by fans. So with the arrival of his fourth album Timeless, the expectation was that he would fit right into the genre’s newly-mainstream landscape while showing why he’s on the Mount Rushmore of the genre. To the surprise of no one, that’s exactly what happened. Timeless arrived as Davido’s best album to date and it’s thanks to the singer’s theme of conquering all things in his way on the album. Whether it be those who want to bring him down or unfortunate events in his life, Davido stands tall “over dem” on Timeless. – W.O.
L.A.X. — No Bad Vibes
Rasaki Music Ltd/EMPIRE
Staying true to his name, a slight acronym for Live And Excel, Nigerian singer L.A.X. took a clear step upward with his third album No Bad Vibes. Born from months of touring and the recognition that a project that embodied his growth was needed came twelve that capture the dance-friendly nature of African music through sweet offerings with features from Ayra Starr, Black Sherif, Konshens, and more. Afrobeats, afropop, and amapiano are the means he uses to achieve his mission of ensuring its great vibes from start to finish on No Bad Vibes. “Zaza” is the infectious dancefloor warmup while “Rora” is where you let go and be free and “Options” grants the slow, intimate embrace of a loved one. L.A.X. covered the bases with No Bad Vibes and he didn’t waste a beat doing so. – W.O.
Mr Eazi — The Evil Genius
emPawa Africa Limited
Mr Eazi was one of a few faces that represented afrobeats during its rise in the 2010s. Releases like “Skin Tight,” “Leg Over,” and “Pour Me Water,” stood out amongst the field and Eazi’s consistency was heralded just as much as the music itself. With all that being said, it’s a bit shocking that it wasn’t until 2023 that Mr Eazi delivered his official debut album. The Evil Genius and its 16 tracks combine everything we’ve come to love about Mr Eazi and his music. He doesn’t sound a decade older, but the experience and wisdom gained in those 10 years are entwined in The Evil Genius. Highlife, afropop, and other genres under the afrobeats soundtrack breathe vibrant life into an incredibly personal album that dives into love, betrayal, loneliness, and family. It was a long time coming for Mr Eazi, but as the saying goes, better late than never. – W.O.
NSG — Area Boyz
NSG Entertainment
A decade into their career, NSG celebrated the milestone by releasing their debut album Area Boyz. The Nigerian and Ghanaian six-member group out of East London delivered an album that deserved to bask in the sunlight of the summer. Bass-knocking records like “Azonto,” “Zombie,” and “Seihor” set the temperature for explosive moments on the album like “Stevie Wonder” and “Nella Rose.” In addition to that, NSG finds moments to show off their timid side through offerings like “Tonight” and “Toxic Love.” Nineteen tracks deep and NSG used them all to show their versatility and growth over their decade-long career. Ten years is a mark few make it to and it’s surely a reason to celebrate, Area Boyz just makes the moment much sweeter. – W.O.
Teni — Tears Of The Sun
Sugar Mummy Records
Nigerian singer Teni is living proof of the beauty behind seeking out the silver linings during the down times in life. Her second album Tears Of The Sun embodies that to a tee with 16 celebratory records that are as bright as the sun in the album’s title. You’re welcome to dance through songs like “Control” while “YBGFA (Young Black Girl From Africa)” offers inspiration to those who look up to her and “Holy Matrimony” supplies a dose of moving spirituality. On Tears Of The Sun, Teni rides the wave of optimism with ease and does it authentically. As a result, Tears Of The Sun lands as a moving album that’ll brighten your day and put you in a nice groove. – W.O.
Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
On November 10, the highly-anticipated 2024 Grammy nominations were announced. As artists and fans held their breaths, many impressive names and projects were revealed to be up for the gold. However, the 2024 Grammys will also include three new categories, including Best African Music Performance. In previous years, African acts like Femi Kuti and Angélique Kidjo were up against other Global acts in the Best Global Music Performance.
This time, the category has been set to highlight the amazing musical talents straight out of the African continent. As expected, the Grammy-winning Burna Boy makes an appearance in the new category. After all, his most recent album, I Told Them…has been lauded by fans and critics alike. Nonetheless, some new faces have now received their first-ever Grammy nods this year. From Afrobeats maestro Davido to the South African starlet Tyla shaking things up, here are the nominees for Best African Music Performance for the 2024 Grammys.
Evidently, Asake is arguably the biggest breakout act out of Africa this decade so far. The Lagos-born singer, songwriter, and dancer has come a long way. From studying theatre at his alma mater, Obafemi Awolowo University, to lighting up major stages, including the O2 arena, he has become an unstoppable force. Today, he’s one of the most recognizable faces in Afrobeats and has received widespread acclaim for performing in his native tongue, Yoruba. His first-time Grammy nod comes as no surprise.
In 2022, Asake signed to Nigerian musical icon, Olamide’s record label, YBNL Nation. Soon after, he began to make serious waves. His second album, Work Of Art, released less than a year after his debut, houses the track “Amapiano.” The upbeat single, which features Olamide, was released to a positive reception and is one of the standout songs from the project. Furthermore, it’s a nod to the genre of the same name created in South Africa. With “Amapiano,” both Asake and Olamide have received their first-ever Grammy nominations.
“City Boys” – Burna Boy
In 2021, Burna Boy took home the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album for his fifth studio album, Twice As Tall. Fast forward to the 2024 Grammys, and he’s earned an impressive four nods. His nomination for Best African Music Performance is for his lauded Afro-fusion single, “City Boys.” The party staple has a slick, bass-heavy beat, and samples the single, “Birthday Sex” by Jeremih. The use of the sample garnered criticism after Burna Boy’s controversial comments about Black Americans but undoubtedly contributed to its success. Overall, “City Boys” has quickly become an anthem among fans, who join the star in professing their love for women, money, champagne, and marijuana.
Davido’s Grammy nods have been a long time coming, and fans can’t help but celebrate the star’s success. His 2017 record, “Fall,” was the first ever African record to receive a Gold certification in the United States. It also didn’t take long for his other record, “If,” to achieve the same feat. Evidently, his success was only a matter of time, and at the 2024 Grammys, the Nigerian Afrobeats legend will be up for three awards.
His nomination for Best African Music Performance is for his worldwide hit, “UNAVAILABLE,” which features South African producer, Musa Keys. The impressive, anthemic dance track is a declaration of a life of peace. After a series of highs and lows in his life, the star has retreated greatly from the limelight, preferring to make his music and steer clear of drama. The single’s catchy chorus has made it a party staple and even led to multiple, delicious remixes, featuring Latto and Sean Paul.
“Rush” – Ayra Starr
Nigerian superstar Ayra Starr burst onto the scene with the conviction to be the best. Clearly, she is on the right track, as she becomes the first Nigerian female artist to earn the nod for Best African Music Performance. Her 2022 single, “Rush,” was a hit upon release in her native Nigeria. However, by 2023, the song began to make waves on TikTok.
The 21-year-old singer and songwriter has been dominating the music scene since she first emerged in 2021. Since then, she has collaborated with many notable international acts, including Kelly Rowland, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, and fellow Grammy-nominee, Tyla. Known for her powerful vocals, eclectic, sexy fashion choices, and charming personality, it didn’t take much time for Ayra Starr to capture the hearts of millions. “Rush” has since charted in numerous countries, particularly reaching a peak of 24 on the UK Singles Chart.
“Water” – Tyla
The South African starlet Tyla has been making waves for quite some time now. However, she broke the glass ceiling with her worldwide hit, “Water,” and also broke records along the way. She and Musa Keys are the South African artists that are up for the Best African Music Performance at the 2024 Grammys. “Water” became a viral sensation on TikTok thanks to its impressive choreography, which features sensuous waist and hip movements.
Tyla is now the youngest South African to ever chart on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching a peak of 21. Furthermore, she is the first South African solo act in 55 years to enter the chart as well. As aforementioned, “Water” took over radio around the world, and has charted in several countries, reaching an impressive peak at the fourth spot on the UK Singles Chart. It also remarkably topped the New Zealand charts.
Nigerian music sensations Burna Boy and Tems have become entangled in legal troubles as they navigated foreign lands. These incidents shed light on the challenges artists face when traveling abroad and the stringent consequences for diverging from foreign country laws. Burna Boy’s Bag Fumbled Burna Boy, known for his unfiltered lyrics, dropped a bombshell in […]
Burna Boy’s The I Told Them… Tour kicked off in Los Angeles over the weekend. Following the sold out stadium show, the tour is set to ignite Rogers Arena in Vancouver, BC, on Tuesday, Nov. 7, before embarking on a thrilling journey across North America. Stops in Houston, Chicago, Toronto, and more are on the itinerary before the tour concludes at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, FL, on March 12.
You can see the opening night images and the upcoming tour dates below.
Over the past few years, as Nigerian pop music — also known as Afrobeats, perhaps a bit reductively — has grown more popular stateside, the artist who has emerged as the central focus for the movement is Burna Boy. Amid a constellation of rising stars such as Asake, Davido, Rema, and Wizkid, his has been the one that burns the brightest. From a semi-coincidental US breakout to becoming the first Nigerian musician to headline an American stadium tour (more on that later), Burna has become the most recognizable face of the genre and its unofficial ambassador from his homeland to the “land of opportunity.”
Of course, I knew all this going into the Los Angeles stop of his I Told Them… Tour Friday at BMO Stadium (home of the Los Angeles FC and Angel City FC soccer teams). But I was still unprepared for the show of sheer enthusiasm from the massive crowd at the recently renamed stadium. While the crowd itself was visibly smaller than the venue’s capacity of 22,000 seats, its energy filled the space, making the misty late-night show feel like the crowded arena show it probably should have been (for the record, the nearby Crypto.com Arena seats 20,000).
While I was perfectly prepared to jibe at the African Giant’s self-aggrandizing decision to pursue the eyebrow-raising “first artist” headlines over the more pragmatic decision to sell out an ostensibly smaller venue (not to mention, the seating shell game used to achieve those headlines), by the time Burna was three songs into his setlist, I was not only converted but I also fully believed that Burna is the perfect ambassador for Afrobeats in the US.
Some of this is down to background info. Having written about the artist for the past five years, I’ve gleaned some insights into his politics, including a belief in the small-but-growing “One Africa” movement, and his insistence on fighting to clarify the Afrobeats moniker. Burna staunchly rejects the classification, preferring the term “Afro-fusion,” which he believes is both more accurate and less confusing, considering his countryman Fela Kuti pioneered a genre called Afrobeat (no “S”) over 40 years ago.
And while he believes that Africa, the continent, should be united under one banner — sort of the way the EU is made up of several different countries using similar trade and financial laws — he is careful to note that “Afrobeats” paints with a broad brush that doesn’t accurately distinguish between contemporary African music such as Amapiano, Coupé-Décalé, Ethio-jazz, Gqom, Makossa, Sungura, and more. There are so many different sub-genres, instruments, languages, and cultures, that the term Afrobeats can truly be seen as reductive (and often is, outside of Nigeria).
But the main aspect of Burna’s performance that makes him such a perfect ambassador for Afro-fusion is, naturally, the music, and the ease and confidence with which he performs it. While the music itself often expresses a joy that can’t be easily put into words (and certainly not in less than these 800 characters), what I can say is I’ve never seen any artist appear to enjoy themselves onstage as much as Burna. Longtime readers will know: that’s a LOT of artists.
Both his ear-to-ear grin and his lighthearted, sometimes goofy dancing are infectious. Security gave up trying to keep concertgoers out of the aisles almost immediately on Friday, recognizing quickly that maintaining neat little lines would not only be impossible but ill-advised. You’ve probably seen how energetic some African dances can get; folks all around dipped and swayed and dropped down with the sort of urgency and stamina that would even make Megan Thee Stallion’s adamantium knees cry out for assistance.
Meanwhile, despite Burna’s lyrics mostly being in the pidgin Yoruba spoken among natives of the region, the crowd seemed to know every word, singing along like they were his real background vocalists (both sounded spectacular). He exhibited immaculate crowd control with call-and-response segments that brought the spirits of the ancestors out of the audience — even those without African ancestry (a group of SWANA guys behind me were having so much fun dancing in the aisle, it seemed like Burna’s dream of a united Africa was much closer than it might be in reality).
And even after the set lulled an hour in when Burna played most of his slow songs back-to-back (this after starting after 10 pm), he snatched the crowd back to wakefulness with joyous anthems like “It’s Plenty” and his breakout hit “Ye” before closing with his biggest hit to date, “Last Last.” That’s a guy who knows how to finish a show (confetti rain, band vamps, the whole shebang). With Burna Boy introducing more and more of the population to the music of his homeland, it makes perfect sense why Afrobeats is taking over the world.
Burna Boy is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
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