Grammy-winning Nigerian singer, Burna Boy, has stirred conversations after revealing that while Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti was a big influence on him, he was not an inspiration in shaping his music career.

The African Giant crooner made this statement during a recent sit-down with tennis legend Roger Federer, where he reflected on the music that shaped his childhood and early artistic journey.

According to Burna Boy, the first album he ever owned was an R&B record by American singer Joe, gifted to him on his 10th birthday. He explained that his grandfather, Benson Idonije, who was also Fela’s first manager, introduced him to Fela’s albums.

He further revealed that Lil Wayne’s “Tha Carter III” and Tupac Shakur’s “Makaveli” were also among the defining soundtracks of his formative years.

When Federer asked which of those records had the biggest impact on him, Burna Boy replied:

“Honestly, none. But Fela was a big influence on me.”

The singer’s remarks have since triggered mixed reactions among fans, many of whom consider him a modern torchbearer of Fela’s Afrobeat legacy. Critics point out that Burna has repeatedly sampled and referenced Fela’s works in some of his biggest hits, including “Ye,” “My Money, My Baby,” and “Gbona.”

For others, his comments highlight the difference between influence and inspiration, showing that while Fela’s music shaped Burna’s sonic environment, his direct creative drive may have come from elsewhere.