Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, known professionally as Burna Boy, is one of the most influential figures in global African music. Rising from Port Harcourt, Nigeria, he carved a niche by blending Afrobeats, reggae, dancehall, hip-hop, and highlife into a unique genre known as Afro-fusion. His music combines socially conscious themes, cultural pride, and personal narratives with compelling rhythms and sonic innovation.

With multiple international accolades, including a Grammy Award and global chart success, Burna Boy continues to expand the global footprint of African music. These 20 songs chronicle his evolution and enduring impact on the music landscape.

1. Like to Party 

Released in 2012, Like to Party introduced Burna Boy’s laid-back delivery and melodic instincts. The single became an anthem for Nigerian youth, laying the foundation for his Afro-fusion sound.

2. Tonight 

Tonight expanded on Burna Boy’s romantic and rhythmic appeal. Its smooth tempo, heartfelt lyrics, and emotional delivery deepened his connection with early fans.

3. Run My Race 

A motivational track from his debut album L.I.F.E., Run My Race became a self-empowerment anthem. Its assertive tone and catchy chorus reflect his determination and ambition.

4. Yawa Dey 

Yawa Dey showcased Burna Boy’s storytelling ability. The track blends social commentary with personal reflection, set against a highlife-inspired beat.

5. Soke 

Released in 2015, Soke marked a shift toward deeper political and cultural expression. With traditional percussion and haunting melodies, the song called attention to societal issues in Nigeria.

6. Rizzla 

Rizzla explored themes of love, pleasure, and self-indulgence over mid-tempo reggae-influenced rhythms. It demonstrated Burna Boy’s lyrical versatility and international appeal.

7. Pree Me 

Pree Me took a minimalist, introspective approach. The song’s stripped-down beat and personal lyrics addressed fame, scrutiny, and self-worth, showing a more vulnerable side of the artist.

8. Ye 

A landmark record in Burna Boy’s career, Ye fused Afrobeat energy with Fela Kuti-style defiance. The song became a global hit, aided by Kanye West’s album of the same name, and solidified Burna Boy as a cultural force.

9. Gbona 

On Gbona, Burna Boy blended Yoruba proverbs with Afrobeat rhythms. The track celebrated African identity while asserting artistic dominance with style and confidence.

10. On the Low 

On the Low remains one of Burna Boy’s most commercially successful singles. Its infectious melody and romantic lyrics earned wide international airplay and elevated his global profile.

11. Dangote 

Dangote combines social realism with satire. Referencing Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, Burna Boy reflects on economic hardship and the relentless pursuit of success, using Afrobeat as a storytelling vehicle.

12. Killin Dem (featuring Zlatan) 

This collaboration with Zlatan infused Burna Boy’s sound with street pop and Zanku rhythms. Killin' Dem became a club staple, further proving his ability to adapt and lead musical trends.

13. Anybody 

With jazz-like instrumentation and bold lyrics, Anybody reinforced Burna Boy’s belief in artistic freedom. The track challenges critics and affirms individuality.

14. Pull Up 

Pull Up delivers a slow, soulful groove that highlights Burna Boy’s melodic strength. Its retro visual aesthetic and emotional tone set it apart as one of his more stylized offerings.

15. African Giant 

The title track of his Grammy-nominated album, African Giant is a bold declaration of cultural pride. The lyrics emphasize African excellence and autonomy, aligning with his Pan-African advocacy.

16. Odogwu 

Odogwu, an Igbo term for “warrior” or “great man,” is a self-glorifying track that embraces indigenous Nigerian culture. With heavy drums and chants, it echoes traditional warrior hymns.

17. Wonderful 

Wonderful blends South African influences with Nigerian rhythm. It is a celebration of African resilience and global ambition, featuring energetic choruses and spirited percussion.

18. Way Too Big 

On Way Too Big, Burna Boy delivers assertive lyrics about self-worth and independence. The production, led by Diddy and Telz, bridges Afro-fusion with stadium-level pop.

19. Monsters You Made (featuring Chris Martin) 

This socially charged song criticizes historical injustice and systemic oppression. Chris Martin’s hook enhances the track’s global resonance, while Burna Boy’s verses reflect a call for accountability and reform.

20. Last Last 

Sampling Toni Braxton’s He Wasn’t Man Enough, Last Last blends heartbreak with street wisdom. Released in 2022, the track’s raw emotion and universal themes earned it global chart success and critical acclaim.

Burna Boy’s career reflects the convergence of activism, artistry, and African pride. These 20 songs illustrate his command of multiple genres, ability to address both personal and political themes, and unwavering commitment to placing African music on the global stage. His Afro-fusion legacy continues to inspire a new generation of artists and audiences worldwide.