Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has revealed that during a period of his life, he strongly identified with Jamaican culture, even feeling “more Jamaican” than Nigerian.
In an interview with Capital Xtra in London, Burna Boy explained that his connection to Jamaica began in childhood, influenced by the music his father played, including artists like Super Cat. This bond deepened when he later studied in Brixton, UK, where he was surrounded by Jamaicans and Caribbeans.
“Jamaica has always been a part of me—from my dad playing Super Cat and stuff when I was a kid to me ending up in Brixton,” he said. “I considered myself more Jamaican at the time simply because everyone around me was Jamaican and Caribbean.”
The Afro-fusion star added that there were very few Nigerians in his immediate circle during that period. “Even the Africans that were my guys were not Nigerians. They were Gambians, Ugandans, and Congolese. There were only two Nigerians in my crew.”
Burna Boy noted the contrast between his life in the UK and his identity at home, stating, “When I go back home to Nigeria, then I’m really a Nigerian. But when I was here, I’m Jamaican.”
He has previously described Jamaica as “home” and often cites the country’s culture and music as major influences on his artistic style, particularly reggae and dancehall.
Burna Boy’s ties to Jamaica extended beyond music. He was in a high-profile relationship with British-Jamaican rapper Stefflon Don from 2019 to 2021.
The singer’s blend of Afrobeat with reggae and dancehall has helped shape his international sound and connect him with diverse global audiences.
