‘He opens doors for artists’: U.S. city declares March 2 Burna Boy Day

Boston, a city in Massachusetts, United States, has declared March 2 as “Burna Boy Day”, in honour of the Nigerian singer.

The city made the declaration via a letter signed by the its councillor, Ruthzee Louijeune.

The city noted that Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ogulu, was honoured in recognition of his performances and advocacy works in the United States.

It said the singer, through his music, has been challenging stereotypes about African artistry by popularising Afrobeats, adding that the singer has been “opening doors for aspiring artists from similar backgrounds”.

The letter read: “Burna Boy embraces his Nigerian and African identity, infusing it with contemporary sounds to create music that resonates with audiences worldwide, thereby challenging stereotypes about African artistry and opening doors for aspiring artists from similar backgrounds.

“Through his performances and advocacy work, Burna Boy amplifies the voices of marginalized communities and advocates for their recognition and rights, using his platform not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire, starting conversations about social justice, equity, and representation.

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“Nigeria is the largest source of African immigration in the United States and Massachusetts is one of the top 10 states with the highest Nigerian-born population, according to the American Community Survey.

“Boston’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating culture and diversity is evident in the range of cultural events, festivals, and community initiatives that showcase the city’s multicultural landscape.

“Burna Boy’s legacy serves as a reminder of possibility, reminding us to continue amplifying voices that have long been silenced or overlooked; Now, therefore be it.

“That March 2, 2024, is designated Burna Boy Day in the City of Boston.”

32-year-old Burna Boy hails from Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

The ‘City Boy’ crooner rose to stardom in 2012 after releasing ‘Like to Party’, the lead single from his debut studio album, ‘L.I.F.E’ released in 2013.

His fourth studio album, ‘African Giant’, which was released in July 2019, won Album of the Year at the 2019 All Africa Music Awards and was nominated for Best World Music Album at the 62nd Grammy Awards.

Burna Boy released his fifth studio album, ‘Twice as Tall’, in August 2020 and won Best World Music Album at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards.

Burna Boy’s sixth studio album, ‘Love, Damini’, was released in July 2022 and became the highest debut of an African album on the Billboard 200 chart.

It also became the highest-charted African album in the Netherlands, United Kingdom, and France.

In October 2022, Burna Boy was awarded the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic plaque for his achievements in music.

In 2023, Rolling Stone ranked him number 197 on its list of the 200 greatest singers of all time.

The Star