The “African Giant” crooner made the remark during a recent conversation with tennis icon Roger Federer, where he reflected on the albums that shaped his early years.
Burna Boy explained that his first-ever album was a record by American R&B singer Joe, which he received as a gift for his 10th birthday. He noted that his grandfather, Benson Idonjie—Fela’s first manager—later introduced him to Kuti’s music.
He further mentioned that Lil Wayne’s Tha Carter III and Tupac’s Makaveli album were also significant parts of his childhood playlist.
When Federer asked which of those works had the greatest impact on him, Burna Boy replied:
“Honestly, none. Fela was a big influence on me.”
The comment has drawn mixed reactions from fans and observers, given Burna Boy’s long history of referencing and sampling Fela’s music in his songs, including popular hits like Ye, My Money, My Baby, and Gbona.
For many, the singer’s remarks appear contradictory—acknowledging Fela’s influence but insisting he was not inspired by him. The statement has since fueled conversations about the distinction between influence and inspiration in the creative journey of one of Africa’s biggest music exports.