Encomium
Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, has since his breakthrough single, Like to party last year continued to grow in stature and popularity with his distinct singing style.
The Mbiama, Rivers born singer who recently released his debut album, L.I.F.E. sparked controversy when he performed his Run My Race single in his underpant at the recently concluded Felabration concert.
He has kept mum on the issue despite the widespread knocks and admirations he has since received over his antics on the Felabration stage.
The Aristokrat Records ariste and Glo ambassador in this exclusive interview, however, bared his mind on the matter, as he spoke briefly about the incident, his album and other issues.
What have you been up to?
I have been touring since the album dropped, I have been on the road promoting. I’ve travelled to several countries doing this so I’ve been very busy.
How is your album doing since its release and how do you feel about it?
I am thankful that the response has been great and it’s good to know people love the tracks and not just the singles.
How do you feel about being one of the hottest fast rising artistes in Nigeria now?
I feel great, I am grateful to God for the chance given to me and I wouldn’t have done it without the fans.
What is your winning formula?
Staying true to myself. There is no formula really.
How did you land the Glo endorsement?
My manager and I have been working for a while, he got the call and that served for all our hard work. Lots of people say I came out of nowhere in 2012 but since 2010, I have been recording before Like to party. It’s the reward of years of hard work.
What’s the value of the deal and duration?
I don’t kiss and tell…
The video of your performance at Felabration 2013 has gone viral. How do you feel about it?
My Felabration performance was all about paying homage to the great Fela “Abamieda” himself. People who were there saw it for what it was.
Can you share with us what prompted you to strip to your underpants on stage?
I have said what I want to say on that subject. No further comment.
There’s been a lot of criticisms from various quarters including Seun Kuti that Fela never performed on stage in pants. Were you oblivious of that fact?
No comment on that.
No comment.
Did you really have an erection on stage, because it seemed so from the pictures and what caused the erection?
No comment.
How do you cope with female fans?
I love my female fans very much and they love me right back. I have a lot of love.
What’s next from Burna?
My tour is still ongoing, I had to stop in Lagos for a quick show but more videos are coming from the album soon so my fans should watch out for more good things from me.
– DANIEL FAYEMI
