Burna Boy Unveils New Single 'Higher' Featuring Amapiano Vibes
Grammy-award-winning Nigerian musician, Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, universally known as Burna Boy, has kick-started the year 2024 with the release of his highly anticipated single 'Higher'. This latest offering from Burna Boy comes as a refreshing blend of Amapiano, a genre originating from South Africa that has been sweeping across the globe with its distinctive rhythm and energetic beats.
'Higher' marks Burna Boy's first single release of the year, and it's already capturing the hearts of fans worldwide. The track stands out not just for its captivating Amapiano influence but for its profound lyrics, in which Burna Boy delves deep into themes of gratitude, success, and the importance of family. These themes resonate strongly, offering listeners a glimpse into the personal reflections and experiences that have shaped the artist's journey.
A Personal Touch: Burna Boy's Connection to 'Higher'
The inspiration behind 'Higher' is rooted in Burna Boy's recent return to his hometown, Port Harcourt. This visit wasn't just a homecoming; it was an opportunity for the singer to engage in humanitarian work and reconnect with his roots. Burna Boy's experiences and the time spent giving back to his community are mirrored in the joyous yet introspective tone of the song, making 'Higher' not just a track but a personal narrative.
Spending time in Port Harcourt, a city that holds a special place in Burna Boy's heart, provided him with a renewed perspective on life. This is eloquently expressed in the lyrics of 'Higher', showcasing his gratitude for life and his unyielding drive for success. The artist's connection to his homeland and his commitment to giving back are evident, making the song a multifaceted musical piece that transcends mere entertainment.
The Power of Amapiano: Spreading African Rhythms Globally
One of the most intriguing aspects of 'Higher' is its Amapiano production. This subgenre of house music, which emerged from South Africa, is characterized by its catchy melodies and unique instrumental elements. Amapiano has been gaining international recognition, and Burna Boy's incorporation of this style further cements its global appeal. The synergy between Burna Boy's vocal prowess and the vibrant Amapiano beats creates a dynamic listening experience that is bound to leave a lasting impression.
Burna Boy's ability to blend different musical styles has always been one of his strengths, and 'Higher' is no exception. By infusing Amapiano into his music, he not only celebrates African musical heritage but also pushes the boundaries of contemporary music. This fusion of sounds exemplifies Burna Boy’s versatility and his dedication to showcasing African culture on a global stage.
Continuing the Momentum: Success of the 'I Told Them' Tour
'Higher' follows the success of Burna Boy's recent 'I Told Them' tour, which saw him breaking multiple records and thrilling audiences across the globe. The tour was a testament to Burna Boy's extraordinary talent, magnetic stage presence, and his ever-growing fan base. Each performance was a display of energy, passion, and an unwavering commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience for his fans.
The tour's success not only solidified Burna Boy's status as one of the biggest artists globally but also highlighted his ability to connect with audiences from diverse backgrounds. The triumph of the 'I Told Them' tour adds a layer of accomplishment to the release of 'Higher', as Burna Boy continues to build on his impressive career milestones.
Humanitarian Efforts and Community Engagement
Beyond his musical achievements, Burna Boy's recent humanitarian efforts have further endeared him to his fans and the public. During his stay in Port Harcourt, he took part in various outreach programs, aiming to give back to the community that has played a significant role in his life. These acts of kindness and his unwavering support for social causes underscore the artist's commitment to making a positive impact beyond the music industry.
Burna Boy's engagement in charitable activities not only highlights his philanthropic spirit but also serves as an inspiration to others. His dedication to uplift his community and address social issues reflects a deep sense of responsibility and a desire to create a better world for future generations. These efforts, coupled with his musical endeavors, paint a picture of an artist who is not only successful but also compassionate and socially conscious.
The Global Influence of Burna Boy
Burna Boy's influence extends far beyond the borders of Nigeria. He has become a global icon, representing African music and culture on the world stage. His collaborations with international artists and his presence at major music festivals have solidified his position as a key player in the global music scene. 'Higher' is a continuation of this journey, showcasing Burna Boy's ability to create music that resonates with people from all walks of life.
The release of 'Higher' is more than just a musical milestone; it is a cultural moment. The song encapsulates the essence of Burna Boy's artistry, blending personal experiences with broader themes that speak to a universal audience. As he continues to break barriers and set new standards, Burna Boy remains a beacon of talent, resilience, and cultural pride.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Burna Boy?
As we move further into 2024, fans eagerly anticipate what Burna Boy has in store. With the release of 'Higher' setting a high bar, there is much excitement about upcoming projects and potential collaborations. Burna Boy's ability to consistently innovate and surprise his audience ensures that his journey is one to watch closely.
In a landscape that is constantly evolving, Burna Boy stands out as an artist who not only adapts to change but also shapes it. His commitment to excellence, both in music and humanitarian efforts, sets him apart as a true icon of our times. Whether through his powerful lyrics, electrifying performances, or his impactful community work, Burna Boy continues to inspire and uplift his audience, making 'Higher' a fitting anthem for the year ahead.
- tags : Burna Boy Higher Nigerian music Amapiano
16 Comments
Sara Lohmaier June 30, 2024 AT 01:25
this is sooo fake lol. burna boy? more like burna sellout. he’s just copying south african beats now to seem ‘authentic’ while he’s living in london and buying mansions. #culturalappropriation #notrealafro
Sara Lohmaier July 1, 2024 AT 16:24
The aestheticization of Amapiano by Nigerian diasporic elites is a textbook case of neocolonial cultural expropriation. The genre’s socio-political roots in the townships of Johannesburg are being commodified into a Spotify algorithm-friendly product, devoid of its original context. Burna Boy’s lyrical content, while ostensibly introspective, functions as a performative gesture of authenticity-akin to a luxury brand co-opting indigenous motifs.
Sara Lohmaier July 3, 2024 AT 06:26
Let’s be real-this isn’t innovation. It’s a lazy remix of what’s trending. Amapiano’s been blowing up since 2020, and now Burna Boy hops on because it’s ‘hot.’ His lyrics? Generic gratitude porn. He didn’t ‘reconnect’ with Port Harcourt-he did a photo op with a few kids and called it activism. Real change is funding schools, not dropping singles with ‘heartfelt’ lyrics while your label books you a private jet tour. This track is a corporate product with a veneer of soul.
Sara Lohmaier July 4, 2024 AT 18:02
The brilliance of 'Higher' lies in its structural dissonance-Amapiano’s minimalist, percussive groove collides with Burna Boy’s melismatic, Yoruba-inflected cadence to create a sonic palimpsest. The basslines don’t just thump-they whisper ancestral echoes, while his vocal runs function as sonic incantations. This isn’t fusion; it’s alchemy. And the lyrical motif of gratitude? It’s a radical act in a world obsessed with accumulation. He’s not just singing about home-he’s sonically reconstructing it.
Sara Lohmaier July 6, 2024 AT 10:51
I’m sorry, but this is exactly why African music gets dismissed as ‘exotic’ by Western audiences. He’s packaging trauma and cultural memory into a dance track for TikTok virality. The humanitarian angle? A PR stunt. He’s not helping Port Harcourt-he’s monetizing it. True cultural ambassadors don’t need a Grammy to validate their roots.
Sara Lohmaier July 7, 2024 AT 17:15
They say it’s Amapiano but the production credits? All Western engineers. The ‘South African roots’? Edited out in the press release. This is all a setup. The whole ‘homecoming’ was staged by his management team to sell more streams. They even planted those kids in the video. The government’s been monitoring his movements since he got that Grammy. This isn’t music-it’s a psyop.
Sara Lohmaier July 8, 2024 AT 17:48
Amapiano’s emergence from the townships of Gauteng is a testament to the resilience of African youth culture. Burna Boy’s integration of it into his sound is not appropriation-it’s dialogue. His lyrics, steeped in Yoruba proverbs and Nigerian idioms, serve as a bridge between generations. The song’s warmth isn’t performative; it’s the sound of diaspora returning home-not as a tourist, but as a son who remembers the soil. This is how African art evolves: by honoring its roots while reaching outward.
Sara Lohmaier July 9, 2024 AT 01:26
America built the music industry. Everything from jazz to hip-hop to this Amapiano nonsense? We imported it, refined it, and made it global. Burna Boy didn’t invent anything. He just took a beat that Americans popularized and slapped his name on it. He’s lucky we even let him on our charts. The real heroes are the producers in Atlanta and LA who made this sound sell worldwide. Don’t act like you’re saving African culture-you’re just riding a wave we made.
Sara Lohmaier July 10, 2024 AT 14:26
I’ve reviewed every single press release from his label since 2020. The ‘humanitarian efforts’ in Port Harcourt? There’s zero public documentation. No NGO partnerships, no tax filings, no receipts. And yet, he’s being hailed as a philanthropist? This is dangerous. It distracts from real grassroots activists who don’t have PR teams. Also-why is his hair always so perfectly styled during these ‘community visits’? Suspicious.
Sara Lohmaier July 11, 2024 AT 05:44
so he made a song about being grateful... after buying a private island. iconic.
Sara Lohmaier July 11, 2024 AT 11:42
I just listened to this on my walk and I felt so seen. Like, really. The way he sings about family? My grandma used to say ‘success means nothing if you forget where you came from.’ Burna Boy didn’t just make a song-he made a hug in sound form. And the Amapiano? It’s like dancing with your ancestors. We need more of this. Keep going, brother. You’re lighting the way.
Sara Lohmaier July 12, 2024 AT 19:37
this song is trash. why does he keep trying to sound like a south african artist? he can barely pronounce the words right. and the ‘community work’? i saw the video-those kids were paid. someone needs to call out this fraud. #burnaboyliar
Sara Lohmaier July 13, 2024 AT 20:33
The layering of Amapiano’s log drums with Burna Boy’s vocal harmonies creates a rare sonic architecture. It is not merely a blend of genres but a recontextualization of sonic memory. The track functions as an auditory archive-each beat a footnote to a history of resistance and joy. His voice, neither fully Nigerian nor fully global, becomes the vessel through which both identities coexist. This is not trend-chasing. This is evolution.
Sara Lohmaier July 14, 2024 AT 16:53
I just came back from Lagos last month. The energy there? Unmatched. Burna Boy’s music doesn’t just play-it moves people. I saw a street vendor dancing to this track while fixing a tire. That’s the real impact. You can call it marketing or branding, but when music moves someone to joy in the middle of chaos? That’s power. And he’s earned it.
Sara Lohmaier July 16, 2024 AT 02:03
Amapiano is not African music. It is South African. Burna Boy is Nigerian. This is not fusion-it is misrepresentation. True African music does not need Western validation. He is not a cultural ambassador-he is a tourist with a recording contract. The lyrics are shallow. The production is derivative. The hype? Manufactured.
Sara Lohmaier July 17, 2024 AT 15:08
I CRIED WHEN I HEARD THIS SONG!!! like... my soul literally lifted off the ground!! burna boy is my spirit animal!! i’m getting a tattoo of his face with the words ‘higher’ in yoruba!!! anyone wanna join my fan club?? i’ll make a merch line!! 🥺✨🎶