Ronami Ogulu, sister of Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy, has offered insights into why the global superstar spends more time performing on tour than in the studio—a choice deeply rooted in family tradition and a philosophy that prioritizes live performance.
Speaking on the Martell Afrobeats Conversation Series, Ronami highlighted the foundational role their mother, Bose Ogulu, played in shaping Burna Boy’s artistry. She described how the family’s approach was not merely managerial but intentional, creating a legacy grounded in live music and authenticity.
“My mum’s younger brother literally scouted everyone from his church,” she said, referring to their uncle, fondly called Uncle Tee, who helped assemble Burna Boy’s original live band.
Ronami emphasized that this deliberate foundation defined Burna Boy’s creative journey.
“All of that contributed to the intention of what started today. The goal has always been live music, not just studio recording.”
She explained that this is why fans often question Burna Boy’s frequent touring and less conventional studio presence.
“I think that’s why many people are always confused, asking, ‘Why are you always on tour? Why are you guys always on the road?’ The intention has never really been about going to a studio in LA and sitting there for months,” she said.
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| Burna Boy holding his Billboard Music Award for the Top Afrobeats Artist and flanked by Ronami Ogulu |
“I was trained as a finance person. I was trained as an investment banker. My dream was to be the President of the World Bank and I was gunning for it,” she shared.
She credited her upbringing and her mother’s discipline for shaping her drive and work ethic. “For my mum, she’s trained as a linguist; she speaks six languages and has managed Burna Boy by herself for all these years, and they achieved so much,” Ronami noted.
Her entry into music came unexpectedly while serving in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and working in corporate banking. “I remember saying I was going to take three months off to help my mum. So, she started sending me emails one a day, then two, then three. And one day she said, ‘We’re going on tour.’ I was like, ‘With who?’ It was a rude awakening,” she recalled, laughing.
That tour proved transformative, ultimately redirecting her career.
“After the tour, I never went back to corporate banking. That was how I became the Chief Operating Officer,” she confessed.
Ronami Ogulu’s story highlights the blend of family legacy, disciplined upbringing, and serendipity that shaped both Burna Boy’s unique approach to music and her own rise in the music industry.