In recent news, Burna Boy, the celebrated Nigerian singer and Grammy-award-winning artist, has finally addressed the title of “new cat” bestowed upon him by fellow musician Davido.
Despite having been a part of the music scene since the release of his debut studio album L.I.F.E. in 2013, Burna Boy remains unfazed by the newcomer label.
Instead, he views it as an advantage, believing that being perceived as a new artist allows him more time to flourish and grants him a unique longevity in the ever-evolving music industry.
The Rise Of Burna Boy:
Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has emerged as one of the heavyweight figures in the Nigerian music scene. Although his initial journey was that of an underdog, Burna’s undeniable talent and charisma quickly propelled him to international stardom.
He has since achieved remarkable feats, including being the first African artist to headline a stadium concert in the UK and selling out the 41,000-capacity Citi Field stadium in New York.
Davido’s “New Cat” Remark:
The discussion surrounding Burna Boy’s status in the music industry began when Davido, in an interview, claimed that he and Wizkid were the pioneers of the Afrobeats to the World movement.
Davido further acknowledged the emergence of a new wave, mentioning artists such as Burna Boy, Rema, Asake, and others, who have taken the genre to new heights. This remark led to a social media debate, with some questioning whether Burna Boy should be considered a newcomer despite his long-standing presence in the industry.
Burna Boy’s Response:
While Burna Boy’s sister, Nissi, responded to the “new cat” conversation on social media, the Afro-fusion superstar himself initially remained silent. However, during a recent interview with Ebro Darden to preview his historic London Stadium performance, Burna Boy finally addressed the issue.
Contrary to any frustration one might expect from being labeled a newcomer, Burna Boy expressed appreciation for the narrative, stating that it grants him longevity and allows him more time to evolve and grow within the industry.
Embracing The Advantage:
Burna Boy’s perspective on being perceived as a new artist is remarkably pragmatic and strategic. Rather than viewing the “new cat” label as a slight or an oversight, he recognizes the opportunity it presents.
In an ever-changing music landscape, artists who are considered “new” often face less pressure to conform to established norms, allowing them to experiment and evolve their sound without being confined by expectations.
This creative freedom has undoubtedly contributed to Burna Boy’s distinct and authentic style, earning him a dedicated global fanbase.
