Burna Boy, born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, is a globally acclaimed Nigerian Afrobeats and Afro-fusion artist. He is widely recognized as one of Africa’s biggest music exports, known for his vibrant sound, electrifying performances, and chart-topping albums. With his unique blend of Afrobeats, dancehall, reggae, and hip-hop, Burna Boy has earned worldwide respect and multiple international awards.

From humble beginnings in Port Harcourt to winning a Grammy Award and performing on the world’s biggest stages, Burna Boy’s rise is a powerful story of talent, resilience, and cultural pride. His music continues to inspire millions, with themes centered around African identity, love, activism, and personal struggle.

As we explore his biography — including his early life, family background, education, relationships, career journey, net worth, and achievements — you’ll understand why Burna Boy is often called the African Giant.

Highlights of Burna Boy Biography

Full Name: Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu
Stage Name: Burna Boy
Date of Birth: 2 July 1991
Age: 34 years old (as of 2025)
Nationality: Nigerian
Profession: Singer, Songwriter, Performer
Parents: Samuel and Bose Ogulu
Net Worth: Estimated $40 million
Relationship Status: Not married
Education: Corona Secondary School; University of Sussex; Oxford Brookes University
Awards: Grammy Award (Best Global Music Album), BET Awards, MOBO Awards, MTV Awards

Early Life

Burna Boy was born on 2 July 1991, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. He grew up in a creative and supportive family. His father, Samuel Ogulu, worked in the welding industry, while his mother, Bose Ogulu — now his manager — was a translator and music lover.

His maternal grandfather, Benson Idonije, was a renowned music critic and one-time manager of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti. This musical heritage played a huge role in shaping Burna Boy’s sound and artistic direction.

Growing up, Burna Boy listened to reggae, dancehall, hip-hop, and classic Afrobeats. He began making music at the age of 10, using FruityLoops to experiment with beats. His environment, combined with strong family support, laid the foundation for a legendary music career.

Education

Burna Boy attended Corona Secondary School in Agbara, Lagos State. After his secondary education, he moved to the United Kingdom for tertiary studies.

He briefly studied Media Technology at the University of Sussex between 2007 and 2008. Later, he enrolled at Oxford Brookes University, where he took a course in Media Communications and Culture. He eventually left the UK to pursue music full-time.

These early educational experiences exposed him to diverse cultures, which later influenced his global sound.

Career / Professional Journey

Early Career

Burna Boy began his professional music journey in 2010. His breakthrough came in 2012 with the release of “Like to Party,” the lead single from his debut album L.I.F.E (2013). The album showcased his Afro-fusion style and received massive acclaim in Nigeria.

Rise to International Fame

After signing with Atlantic Records in the US and Warner Music Group internationally, Burna Boy’s global recognition skyrocketed.

Key albums that defined his rise:

L.I.F.E (2013)
On a Spaceship (2015)
Outside (2018) – Included the global hit Ye
African Giant (2019) – Grammy-nominated
Twice as Tall (2020) – Won Grammy Award
Love, Damini (2022) – Featuring hits like Last Last

His Grammy Award win in 2021 for Twice as Tall propelled him into global superstardom, making him one of Africa’s most decorated musicians.

Collaboration & International Tours

Burna Boy has collaborated with several global stars, including:

Beyoncé
Ed Sheeran
Dave
Jorja Smith
Pop Smoke
Stormzy
Wizkid
Chris Brown

He has performed in sold-out arenas, including Madison Square Garden, Paris La Défense Arena, Citi Field Stadium, and the London Stadium — becoming one of the first African artists to headline major venues.

Awards & Achievements

Some of Burna Boy’s major awards include:

Grammy Award (Best Global Music Album)
Multiple BET Awards (Best International Act)
MTV Africa Music Awards
MOBO Awards
Edison Award
AFRIMA Awards

He is regarded as a pioneer of Afro-fusion and a leading figure in spreading African music globally.

Net Worth and Lifestyle

Burna Boy’s net worth is estimated at $40 million. His wealth comes from:

Album sales and streaming revenue
Global tours
Brand endorsements
Concert appearances
Luxury merchandise
Real estate investments

Lifestyle highlights:

Owns luxury cars including Lamborghini, Ferrari, and Rolls Royce
Owns mansions in Lagos and abroad
Travels frequently for shows, collaborations, and business
Known for his high-end fashion, jewelry, and African-inspired outfits

Despite his wealth, Burna Boy often speaks about staying true to himself and maintaining African cultural pride.

Personal Life

Burna Boy keeps much of his private life away from the media. He has been romantically linked to several celebrities in the past, including British rapper Stefflon Don, but he is not married as of 2025.

He is known to be close to his mother, Bose Ogulu (Mama Burna), who plays a key role in his career as his manager.

Burna Boy also maintains strong relationships with his siblings and extended family.

Conclusion

Burna Boy’s journey from Port Harcourt to becoming a global music icon is nothing short of extraordinary. His consistency, powerful storytelling, and fearless approach to music have earned him worldwide respect.

As the African Giant, Burna Boy continues to push boundaries, represent Africa on global stages, and influence the next generation of artists. His legacy is already cemented, but his career continues to evolve with every record-breaking achievement.

FAQs About Burna Boy

1. What is Burna Boy’s net worth?

Burna Boy’s estimated net worth is about $40 million.

2. How old is Burna Boy?

He is 34 years old (born 2 July 1991).

3. Is Burna Boy married?

No, Burna Boy is not married.

4. Who are Burna Boy’s parents?

His parents are Samuel Ogulu and Bose Ogulu, who is also his manager.

5. What was Burna Boy’s first major hit?

His first major hit was “Like to Party” released in 2012.

6. What is Burna Boy’s biggest achievement?

Winning a Grammy Award for Twice as Tall in 2021.

7. What genre of music does Burna Boy make?

He is known for Afro-fusion, blending Afrobeats with reggae, dancehall, and hip-hop.

Burna Boy Biography: Net Worth, Age, Wife, Education, Family, Career, Early Life