Burna Boy Reflects on Humble Beginnings: “I Recorded My First Song at 13 Using Game Beats”
Grammy-winning Nigerian artist, Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, has once again shown that greatness often has humble beginnings.
In a chat with Apple Music’s Ebro Darden, the Afrobeats icon shared the fascinating story of how he recorded his very first song at just 13 years old — using nothing more than a radio, a tape recorder, and beats lifted from video games like NBA Street Volume II and Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.
🎙️ “I used one from NBA Street Volume II, I think, and one from GTA: San Andreas.
I’d play the beat and record over it… that’s how it went. I was about 13,”
Burna told Ebro.
From a teen experimenting with video game soundtracks to a global sensation shaping modern Afrobeats, Burna’s journey is one of pure grit, creativity, and resilience.
✨ Opinion: Burna’s Story Is Proof That True Talent Finds a Way
What makes this story so beautiful is its rawness. No studio, no producers, just a kid with a dream and a DIY setup. In a world where shiny equipment often gets more praise than raw talent, Burna’s experience is a testament to the power of passion and self-belief.
It’s also a reminder to young creatives — start with what you have. The future legend in you doesn’t need to wait for perfection. Burna didn't.
🔁 Burna Apologizes for ‘Afrobeats Lacks Substance’ Comment
In the same interview, Burna also took time to clarify a controversial comment he made about Afrobeats lacking substance. He admitted he misunderstood the term’s role in uniting and branding Nigerian music on a global stage, and he offered an apology to fans and fellow artists.
“At the time, I didn’t fully understand what Afrobeats meant for our collective voice. I’ve grown since then.”
📣 What do you think of Burna Boy’s grassroots journey? Did you ever imagine your favorite game soundtrack could spark a Grammy winner’s career?
Let’s talk below! 🎮🎤🔥
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