Afrobeats megastar Burna Boy has broken his silence following his unexpected loss at the 2024 Grammy Awards, expressing disappointment and confidence in equal measure as he declared, “I deserved it.”
The Twice As Tall singer, who was nominated in multiple categories including Best Global Music Performance and Best African Music Performance left the ceremony without a win, sparking widespread reactions from fans and industry watchers around the world.
In a candid Instagram Live session late Monday night, Burna Boy addressed the snub head-on, stating, “Let’s be honest. I know what I put into my craft. I deserved that Grammy. No shade to anyone else, but the truth is the truth.”
His remarks come after a stellar year marked by sold-out stadium tours, critical acclaim for his album I Told Them, and a trailblazing performance at the Grammys pre-show, where he became the first African artist to perform on the main Grammy stage.
Fans have praised Burna Boy for elevating African music on the global scene, and many took to social media with the hashtag JusticeForBurna, arguing that his contributions to the genre go far beyond awards.
While some critics accused the artist of arrogance, others applauded his honesty and passion.
“I don’t need validation, but it would have been nice to see the culture recognized properly,” Burna added during the live session. “Still, we move. I’ll keep making music that speaks to the world.”
This isn’t the first time Burna Boy has had a complicated relationship with the Recording Academy. He won a Grammy in 2021 for Twice As Tall but has since voiced concerns over how African music is categorized and judged.
Industry analysts say the snub may further fuel Burna’s resolve and sharpen conversations around fair representation of African artists on global award platforms.
As Burna Boy heads into a new tour season with multiple headline shows in Europe and North America, fans are eager to see how the self-proclaimed African Giant turns disappointment into another powerful statement on stage and in the studio.