Grammy Award winner Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, has credited Afrobeats connoisseur and social activist Fela Anikulapo-Kuti for having a significant influence on his music career.
Speaking with tennis legend Roger Federer, the duo explored topics ranging from Nigerian football to global music influences.
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During the chat, Burna Boy lit up when asked about his favourite footballers, singling out Nigerian legend Austin “JJ” Okocha. “My good soccer player is JJ Okocha,” he said. Federer immediately recalled Okocha’s brilliance on the pitch, responding: “I remember JJ Okocha, of course. He scored some great goals.” Burna Boy also mentioned Victor Oshimen and Brazilian icon Ronaldinho, pointing out his love for creativity and flair in football.
The singer then joked about Nigeria’s national team, the Super Eagles, while acknowledging their fighting spirit. “The Super Eagles. That’s super cool. Why Super Eagles? They can’t fly, but you know, they win some games. Yeah, yeah, they win some games,” he said, drawing laughter.
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When the conversation moved to music, Burna Boy reflected on the albums that defined his formative years. “First album, I got the Joe album for my 10th birthday gift. It’s an R&B singer called Joe, back in the day. I got all the Fela albums from my granddad, so every Fela album is a good album. Uh, Lil Wayne’s Tha Carter III. Tupac’s Makaveli album.”
Federer then asked which of those records inspired you the most. Burna Boy initially gave a startling reply: “Honestly, none.” A surprised Federer pressed, “Really? Are you for real?” to which Burna insisted, “I promise you. I promise. Well, Fela was a big influence on me.”
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The discussion not only revealed Burna Boy’s admiration for football icons like Okocha and Ronaldinho but also reaffirmed the lasting role of Fela Kuti in shaping his artistry. It highlighted his playful sense of humour, his pride in Nigerian culture, and his refusal to be confined by expectations while still acknowledging the Afrobeat pioneer whose legacy resonates in his music.
