Nigerian Afro-fusion singer, Damini Ogulu popularly known as Burna Boy has announced his exit from all platforms of social media permanently. News Agency of Nigeria reports that the ‘On The Low’ singer shared the news on Wednesday via his Instagram page @burnaboygram, explaining that his page will only share information on music and upcoming shows henceforth.
He said, “I am leaving all social media platforms permanently. They are now strictly for my show dates and new music. My social media will now be in the full control of my management. Love and positivity to all.” Although no reason was given for this exit, it comes after fans called the singer out for using his handles to shade other artistes over music deals and streaming.
NAN reports that Burna Boy has, on several occasions, used his social media handles to air controversial statements on trending issues. In January, he accused Coachella of disrespecting him by writing his name in a small font on the Festival’s poster. He insisted on a change and called himself an ‘African Giant’. Fans promptly called on him to apply caution and make good use of the global stage. Burna boy eventually performed at Coachella in April and began the ‘African Giant’ tour.
The singer remained relatively peaceful on social media until May when he expressed sadness over the excitement of Nigerian artists when they sign foreign deals. He said, “You guys don’t know what you’re doing. I will forever be grateful to my manager/mother for making sure I will never be an “international” VICTIM.” Fans were angry at the statement because it came in the wake of Tiwa Savage’s new deal with Universal Music Group. His stance was also described as hypocritical as Burna Boy, once had a foreign music deal.
His most recent debacle involved him slamming his colleagues who boast about their music streaming numbers, arguing that it was not a reflection of talent. Fans noted that his criticisms of other artistes were getting harsher by the day and advised him to tone it down to avoid destroying his reputation and relationships in the industry.
Burna boy came into limelight when Aristokrat Records released his debut studio album L.I.F.E on August 12, 2013. It serves as the follow-up to his second mixtape, Burn Identity (2011). L.I.F.E sold 40,000 copies on the first day of its release. Aristokrat Records later sold the album’s marketing rights to Uba Pacific for ₦10 million. The release of the album was preceded by five singles: “Like to Party”, “Tonight”, “Always Love You”, “Run My Race” and “Yawa Dey”.
Produced entirely by Leriq, L.I.F.E features guest appearances from 2face Idibia, M.I, Timaya, Olamide, Reminisce and Wizkid. Nigeria Entertainment Today ranked the album 10th on their list of the 12th best albums of 2013 The music of L.I.F.E draws heavily from the music of Fela Kuti, King Sunny Ade and Bob Marley. The album received generally positive reviews from music critics, who applauded its versatile production. It was nominated for Best Album of the Year at the 2014 Nigeria Entertainment Awards. In August 2013, L.I.F.E peaked at number 7 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart.
