Award-winning Nigerian singer Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has spoken about the important role British music star Ed Sheeran played in his collaboration with Colombian superstar Shakira on the song Dai Dai.
The 35-year-old Grammy winner made the revelation during a recent interview with Capital FM, where he praised Sheeran for helping to make the collaboration possible.
According to Burna Boy, the British singer not only contributed to the songwriting process but also prepared him for the pressure of performing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where the official anthem is expected to be showcased.
Reflecting on their friendship, Burna Boy said Sheeran understood his personality and wanted to ensure he was mentally prepared for the scale of the event.
Burna Boy said:”He had to give me a heads-up like, ‘Yo, you’re going to have to perform at the finals.’ He knows me… he knows how I get down.”
He explained that Sheeran was aware of how overwhelming major international performances can be for him and wanted to make sure he was ready for the experience.
He continued: “He knows the stress part is a bit crazy for me and stuff, so he gave me a heads-up. He was like, ‘Yo, it’s going to be real stressful.’”
The Afrobeats star went on to shower praise on Sheeran, describing him as one of the most genuine people he has worked with.
ALSO READ:Charles Okocha Avenges 2023 Loss as Portable Walks Out in Chaotic Celebrity Boxing Rematch
He added:”He’s just a very sensible and lovable guy. He is someone I have taken to personally from the beginning. Ed is very smart, man. He always knows what he is doing.”
Sheeran is credited as one of the songwriters on Dai Dai, alongside producer Alexander Castillo. The track, which serves as the official anthem for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, celebrates resilience, determination and inner strength.
Shakira had previously disclosed that she waited around 20 days for Burna Boy to record and deliver his verse for the song.
