Nigerian music sensation, Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ogulu, boasts an impressive net worth of $12 million.
Born on July 2, 1991, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Burna Boy has cemented his place as a leading figure in the global music scene with a career that spans over a decade.
Early Life and Education
Burna Boy’s musical journey began in his childhood. His parents, Bose, an academic and businesswoman, and Samuel, a welding company manager, nurtured his early interest in music.
As a child, Ogulu created music using FL Studio, a digital audio workstation.
He attended Corona Secondary School in Agbara, Nigeria, before continuing his studies in London at the University of Sussex and Oxford Brookes University.
Following his education, he returned to Nigeria and completed a year-long internship at Rhythm 93.7 FM, a radio station.
Rise to Stardom
Burna Boy’s career took off with the release of his debut studio album, “L.I.F.E,” in 2013, featuring the hit single “Like to Party.”
After parting ways with Aristokrat Records in 2014, he founded his label, Spaceship Entertainment, and released his second studio album, “On a Spaceship,” in 2015.
His breakthrough came with the 2018 release of “Outside,” which debuted at number three on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart and won Album of the Year at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.
In 2019, Burna Boy released “African Giant,” which garnered a Grammy nomination for Best World Music Album and won Album of the Year at the All Africa Music Awards.
His 2020 album, “Twice as Tall,” debuted atop the Billboard World Albums chart and earned him a Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album.
Continued Success
Burna Boy’s success continued with his sixth studio album, “Love, Damini,” released in 2022.
It became his highest-charting album on the Billboard 200, debuting at number 14, and marked the highest debut ever for an African album on the chart.
In 2023, he released “I Told Them…,” which topped the UK Albums chart and featured collaborations with artists such as 21 Savage, J. Cole, and RZA.
Collaborations and Notable Appearances
Burna Boy has collaborated with numerous artists across various genres.
He was featured on Fall Out Boy’s “Sunshine Riptide” in 2018 and worked with DJDS on the EP “Steel & Copper” in 2019.
He also appeared alongside Ed Sheeran on Stormzy’s single “Own It.”
In 2020, he was featured on the remix of Master KG’s “Jerusalema” and Sam Smith’s “My Oasis.”
His 2021 collaborations included Justin Bieber’s “Loved by You” and Jon Bellion’s “I Feel It.”
Honors and Awards
Burna Boy’s contributions to music have earned him numerous accolades, including Grammy, BET, All Africa Music, Ghana Music, and Soundcity MVP Awards.
In 2022, he was honored with Nigeria’s Order of the Federal Republic.
Controversies
In mid-2022, Burna Boy was embroiled in controversy when his armed security escorts allegedly shot and wounded two people at a Lagos nightclub.
The incident reportedly began after a woman declined Burna Boy’s invitation to join him in the VIP section.
Five of his security guards were arrested and charged with attempted murder.
The incident’s aftermath saw accusations of hush money attempts from Burna Boy’s family towards the victims.
Personal Life
Burna Boy’s personal life has also been in the spotlight.
From 2018 to 2022, he was in a relationship with British rapper and singer Stefflon Don.
Burna Boy’s remarkable journey from Port Harcourt to global stardom showcases his resilience and dedication to his craft, making him a prominent figure in the music industry with a continually growing legacy.
