African Category Created By Grammys Is Because Of Me – Burna Boy

In a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times, internationally acclaimed Afrobeats artist Burna Boy hinted at his perceived role in the establishment of the Recording Academy’s fresh category, “Best African Music Performance” at the Grammy Awards.

The Nigerian singer, whose real name is Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, expressed a sense of responsibility for the inception of this new category, which was introduced to the Grammy Awards lineup.

Burna Boy’s rise to global prominence has been meteoric, and his contributions to the contemporary music scene have significantly elevated the Afrobeats genre onto the international stage.

In the interview, he modestly implied that his achievements might have influenced the Academy’s decision to recognize African music in a distinct category.

“I do feel somewhat responsible for the new ‘Best African Music Performance’ category, which is nice,” Burna Boy stated.

While expressing his appreciation for the acknowledgment of African music, he also raised valid questions regarding the stature and prestige associated with this new award.

He pondered whether the category might be perceived as a mere consolation prize, devoid of the same level of honor as the existing categories.

In his words;

“I do feel somewhat responsible for the new ‘Best African Music Performance’ category, which is nice. At the same time, what is it really? Is it a consolation category? Will it hold as much prestige? I’m waiting to see.”