On July 25, 2019, Burna Boy unveiled his fifth studio album, African Giant, a landmark release that marked a pivotal moment in his career and solidified his status on the global stage. Five years on, it’s time to reflect on whether African Giant stands as Burna Boy’s magnum opus or merely the beginning of a series of groundbreaking achievements.
Following the international success of his hit single “YE,” which catapulted him to global recognition, Burna Boy sought to craft an album that would not only showcase his artistry but also affirm his place as one of Africa’s foremost musical talents. The result was African Giant, a 19-track tour de force that effortlessly fused genres and resonated with both local and international audiences.
From the pulsating rhythms of “Dangote” to the infectious energy of “Killing Dem” featuring Zlatan, and the Afrobeat anthems “Anybody” and “Gbona,” African Giant presented a diverse array of sounds that captured the essence of Burna Boy’s musical identity. The album’s genre-blending approach catered to the cravings of his growing global fanbase while staying true to the cultural and sonic familiarity of Nigerian society.
Drawing inspiration from the legendary Fela Kuti, Burna Boy didn’t shy away from addressing sociopolitical issues. Collaborations with Ghanaian rapper M.anifest and pan-African music icons Angelique Kidjo and Damian Marley on tracks like “Different” enriched the album with profound commentary on Africa’s political and social landscape.
The album’s prominence was further amplified by its serendipitous timing with Kanye West’s similarly titled EP, “Ye.” This alignment, combined with standout tracks like “Pull Up” and “Gum Body” featuring Jorja Smith, helped cement African Giant as a critical and commercial success. Burna Boy’s collaborations with American stars such as Future, YG, and Jeremih, as well as Jamaican artist Serani, further broadened his appeal.
African Giant made history as the first pop album by an African artist to be nominated for a Grammy in the World Music Album category. With its standout tracks and global success, the album became one of the most streamed projects by a Nigerian artist and played a crucial role in opening Grammy doors for contemporary African musicians.
While African Giant is widely celebrated as Burna Boy’s defining work, some critics and fans, including this writer, might argue that his Grammy-winning album Twice As Tall could rival or surpass it as his magnum opus. Nevertheless, African Giant undeniably marks a significant chapter in Burna Boy’s career, showcasing his exceptional talent and paving the way for future achievements.
