To celebrate his remarkable contribution to Afrobeats, the City of Boston in Massachusetts, United States officially declared the 2nd day of March as ‘Burna Boy Day.’
The recognition, according to the declaration, “is a result of Burna Boy’s efforts to introduce and popularise Afrobeats in Boston.
A resolution that followed the announcement read: Burna Boy, born Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, “is now a global cultural icon who has helped introduce and popularise Afrobeats to the entire world.”
“For too long, mainstream narratives have marginalised African voices and overlooked the richness of the continent’s cultural heritage, with Burna Boy’s rise to prominence highlighting a shift in this paradigm.
“Burna Boy proudly embraces his Nigerian and African identity, infusing it with contemporary sounds to create music that resonates with audiences worldwide, thereby challenging stereotypes about African artistry and opening doors for aspiring artists from similar backgrounds,” the statement noted.
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Officials said the Burna Boy, through his performances and advocacy work, had helped “amplify the voices of marginalised communities and advocates for their recognition and rights.”
The Last Last crooner is praised for using his platform to entertain, educate, inspire, and start conversations about social justice, equity, and representation.
The declaration added that Nigeria is the largest source of African immigration in the United States, and Massachusetts is one of the top 10 states with the highest Nigerian-born population, according to an American community survey.
“Boston’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating culture and diversity is evident in the range of cultural events, festivals, and community initiatives that showcase the city’s multicultural landscape
“Burna Boy’s legacy serves as a reminder of possibility, reminding us to continue amplifying voices that have long been silenced or overlooked,” it stated.
The singer and songwriter has been on his ‘I Told Them Tour’ with performances in Chicago, USA, and Montreal, Canada. Last month, he became the first African act to perform at the Grammy Awards.