Music Review

Self-acclaimed “African Giant”, and popularly known as Burna Boy, Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu is an afrobeat, Grammy award-winning singer, songwriter, and record producer. He is in the third tier of his life and has accomplished much for himself and his music career. In 2019, he won Best International Act at the BET Awards; his fourth and fifth albums, “African Giant” and “Twice as Tall” were nominated at the 62nd and 63rd Grammy Awards, respectively. “Twice as Tall” won Best World Music Album at the 63rd Grammy Awards. He also released his sixth album in 2022, titled ‘Love, Damini’.

Review of “Twice as Tall” Album by Burna Boy

Burna Boy’s fifth album “Twice as Tall” was released in August 2020; this was during the covid-19 pandemic that resulted in total lockdowns in all countries in the world. He did most of the song recording in Ahoada, Rivers State, Nigeria, and because of the pandemic, he worked together with his music producer through virtual files transfer and Zoom calls. The album is about a period of time in the musician’s life, “it is the album about the struggle for freedom, about life in general, real life, good times, bad times, happy times, sad times, and great times”, Burna said in a press release. 

In terms of production, it was mainly produced by Telz, with others including Rexxie, Timbaland, and DJDS. The album also featured guest appearances from Senegalese singer Youssou N’Dour, American Hip Hip trio, Naughty by Nature, Kenyan Afropop band, Sauti Sol, Chris Martin, and Stormzy. 

The album also had an animated comic book ‘The Secret Flame’ that was narrated by the singer’s grandfather, Benson Idonije. It highlighted Burna’s self-discovery and the very moments that brought him to where he is standing tall today. The artwork depicted him in cartoon form as a titan, marching over modern roads and ancient monuments. Burna said the art was an exact depiction of what he wanted to portray.

In the aspect of song composition, the album ‘Twice as Tall” is a blend of Afrobeats, Afrobeat, dancehall, pop, and hip-hop.  It is Burna’s battle cry written and put in songs; it can feel heavy under the weight of Burna’s personal reflection and Pan-African crusade. The twist and mix of Afrobeat, reggae, dancehall, and hip-hop; scream his passion. 

In the first track “Level up”

Burna recounted his wild rise and celebrated his achievements. He featured Youssou N’Dour on this track, revisiting times when he was not there yet and struggled with whether he should give up or not. He recounted when he lost the Best World Music Album Awards to Beninese Angelique Kidjo, who he reverenced so much although, the loss sickened him; “I remember when me couldn’t level up cause the Grammys had me feeling sick as fuck”. He also recounted times he that’s felt small, and initiated a familiar, satisfying arc of a hero’s journey. 

“Alarm Clock”

The beat of this track has a contemporary Afro-pop sound in outlook and is heavily influenced by Fela’s Afrobeat ear in delivery. It is the short track on the album. It started with a spoken intro from the executive producer Diddy and a sudden rush of melody by a saxophone. It kind of has a danceable tune; for anyone looking for a song to dance and vibe to, it is definitely one.

“Way Too Big”

Burna is seen in a self-confident form, relaying his intention to avoid bad company as subtle violin runs cushion his vocals. He noted that he’s bigger than some things and also liked himself with Muri. Burna vaunts his greatness in this track, he sings “Your back and spinal cord go break if you carry my weight”. The ‘Way Too Big’ track is just a vibe song, not a danceable one. It gives this vibe of ‘im bigger than haters or enemies.

“Bebo”

In ‘Bebo’, Burna discussed his unwillingness to pretense. He incorporated some Yoruba words in the song and expressed how he is a jovial person and not the one to snub a familiar face. He also acknowledge God as his source and rebuked the devil. The track was produced by Rexxie.

On the fifth track, “Wonderful” 

Produced by Telz, Burna expressed excitement about his people and the globalization of Afrobeat. It has an infusion of Nigerian pidgin and Yoruba. He described Afrobeat as a “banga” and how anyone who listens feels it from their feet. It reveals the mystery of rhythm and hustle, and what sounds and drums can evoke; how they can make you happy and move from your toes to your scalp. According to Burna, it is about the wonders of seeing the impact of music on people’s lives. It is the song for that sad mood. 

“Onyeka”

It was also produced by Telz and has this happy and triumphant tune. It has lyrics that anyone could relate to and gyrate to. It is a scampish love song to his love, as he made mention of “Onyeka” inspired by Onyeka Onwennu, the Nigerian diva and activist.

In the seventh track “Naughty Nature”, 

He featured the American hip-hop trio, Naughty by Nature. Burna talked about his journey to where he is now and his experiences with ladies; he called himself Naughty by Nature. He also expressed his dislike for politics and the hip-hop trio did a rap verse. It has a slow danceable hip-hop tempo that allows anyone listening, to move slowly from left to right.

“Comma”, 

In the song Burna used the Port Harcourt slang “comma” to describe flaws in ladies especially in their cosmetic procedures. It is the party anthem like “Killing Dem” that has a danceable beat.

“No Fit Vex”

The track was produced by LeriQ and Burna was giving positive twists. He pointed out that life is not easy and understands the hustle and struggles of life. He described himself as a man who is less interested in his petty side; he would celebrate with his friends when he sees them winning. 

In “23”, 

Burna sees himself as similar to Micheal Jordan, the Basketball legend, in the music industry; he says “No act like say I no deserve am”. The track features a piano-assisted instrumental from the beginning. He pointed out that he does not trust anyone because there are many pretenders and hypocrites who are identical to the devil.

“Time Flies”

Burna featured vocals from Sauti Sol with a spoken outro from his mother Bose Ogulu. “Time Flies” insert Marc Anthony’s “I Need You”. It talks about how time waits for no one; “time flies like a thief in the night” and everyone has a story to tell. 

“Monsters You Made” 

The song is a politically charged Reggae-Fusion that explores the historical injustices on an oppressed race that is convinced enough should be enough. The song addresses African and African-American experiences with prejudice and explores subjects like slavery and miseducation. The song is also filled with suffering, rage, and plenty of defiance relating to Africa. It features Chris Martin on vocals and a spoken outro by Ghanaian author and poet Ama Ata Aidoo. 

“Wettin Dey Sup”

In this song, Burna speaks against gun violence and police brutality although it is mainly personal. He revisits his root as a Port Harcourt boy with street nugget “Wettin Dey Sup” which in English literally means “What’s Happening”. He started the song with controversial line “I nor be one of those men who dey fear toto fuck nyash, check am na pa koro pa…”, which is a street proverb that refers to the absence of hypocrisy or factual statement.

“Real Life”

Burna featured Stormzy on this track. Here he was dishing out the “Im trying to find my peace” vibe. It has the true R&B style with Stormzy crooning and the aid of a vocoder. 

“Bank on It”

Burna explores his belief in a supreme being and has relied on it in the face of a potential setback. He also begs for forgiveness if he makes a mistake and protection from his adversaries; the line that says “so forgive me if I fumble cause I am only human”. “Somebody move that I don’t know, hit them with the seven-box combo”, this line denotes protection from anyone planning evil against him. The song came to a close with the choir harmonizing as the main hook.

 Seeing that this album won the ‘Best World Music Album’ at the 63rd Grammys, it is most definitely a hit. The album combines hip-shaking beats and upbeat cries for Black solidarity with a contagious sense of independence. ‘Twice as Tall’ is an album that’s worth giving ears to.

Due to the tragic loss of his first son, Nigerian singer Davido took time off social media to grieve; this included a hiatus from his career. 

His first public appearance after the tragedy was at the World Cup Closing Ceremony where he performed “Hayya” (happy together) with Trinidadian singer Cardona and Qatari singer Aisha. 

On the 31st day of March 2023, he dropped an album called Timeless, which sparked the whole internet; many positive comments and a few negative comments. This article will review each song on the album.

Over Dem

In this song, Davido narrated how much God has been there for him. He used the “David and Goliath” biblical reference, saying “If dem wan turn Goliath, I be David for life” meaning if they want to turn to his enemy, he will keep winning because God has always been by his side. The song also pointed out how he minds his business and just enjoys himself with his friends. The song is best suited for a calm evening, it is not too upbeat but it is not too slow, and it can pass as a motivational song. Listening to this song takes one to a cool evening, spent with close friends reminiscing. It was not my favorite song on the album but it has its mood.

Feel

This song has an upbeat sound and as someone who loves to dance, I love the song. It has an Amapiano beat, a South African beat known to make someone want to dance, and truly the song makes you want to dance. Judging by the lyrics, it is a love song or probably a heartbreak song but the nice beat has distracted the listeners from the singer’s pains. This is easily one of my favorites.

In The Garden

He featured Morravey in this album which makes the first verse a woman’s point of view. It is a love song, assuming a love interest between the two people singing the song. Not in real life, but for the song’s sake, they are lovers. Listening to this song takes one’s imagination to silk bedsheets and rose petals, laughter, and caresses. It is in the way the beat pairs well with the lyrics, makes you want with a significant other and just be in the moment. I play it to do my laundry but yes, I like to imagine I am the main character in a music video while doing it. 

Godfather

As the title suggests, he plays the role of a godfather that has succeeded in lifting his close pals. He has connections and he is calling on all his friends so they could have a good time, as it is important to enjoy one’s self as they have money. He also spells out how much they love having fun and how it’s a regular activity. He also pointed out that everything he has gotten is from God so if anyone tries to talk bad, they will burn. The beat is unique, and the song is also danceable. Makes you imagine driving in a convertible with friends or laughing on a yacht.

Unavailable

Musa Keys was featured in this infamous Tiktok favorite. Asides from the danceable tune, there is just something about the lyrics, the way almost everyone can relate to it, and the appeal was sealed with a matching dance. The song is talking about not being available for side talks, explaining that he is only human, and never claimed perfect, he will make mistakes but that does not give people the right to come for him. Unarguably, it makes you imagine being in the club.

BOP

He featured Dexta Daps in this. There is just something about this song. It does not spark any imagination but it promises a good time. The beats, the way they drop and rise, you just want to nod your head and tap your feet.

E Pain Me

This is a heartbreak song, he expresses how it was really painful that a girl was trying to play with his heart. He explained how he wanted to change his life for this girl but she decided to play with his heart and it made him bitter, even though he is begging her to stay back. It is the kind of song you sway slowly to even though it has somewhat of an upbeat. 

Away

Once again he is talking about how he stands firm no matter how much people want to see him fall, he does not have time for problems so he has gone away to Ibiza. He also uses the song to advise that whatever one does, he should be sure it is fruitful. Apart from motivating, this song is also a danceable one.

Precision

My favorite thing about this song is the beginning; it has an old-school vibe to it. It starts like that but it does not continue, it continues with a contemporary beat. He is talking about how he is always cautious of how he moves and he carries people along.

Kante

Titled after a footballer, this is my personal favorite, it is both danceable and grounded. It gives a slow vibe, the kind of song you can dance to with your significant other. In the lyrics, Kante is used metaphorically to liken her dancing skills to Kante’s football skills. This song takes you to a night of red wine and slow dancing.

Na Money

My second favorite after Kante features the Cavemen Brothers and Angelique Kidjo. It is a perfect blend of traditional and modern. It is talking about a woman that deserves all the good things in life. This takes you to the traditional wedding of two affluent people with important dignitaries in attendance. Angelique Kidjo’s voice in the last verse sealed the uniqueness of the song.

U(Juju)

After the high of “Kante” and “Na Money”, he decided to tone it down with this heartfelt love song. The kind of song you listen to doing the dish while daydreaming of your perfect love life.

No Competition

This song features the infamous Asake. Asake is generally known for not having any bad songs and trust that he brought his magic to this song too. This song boosts confidence and makes you feel like a video vixen, with all lights and cameras on you. 

Picasso

This slow song featuring Logos Olori is a heartfelt love song. The kind of song you listen to after a long day while swaying your head with a finger of scotch in hand, and your eyes closed.

For The Road

He is asking the girl if being in love with the riches is not what she is confusing for being in love with him, and she should be honest with him. Nevertheless, if she decides to leave then she should give him something to hold on to. This is the kind of song you listen to with people but in silence, or the kind that will have you screaming at the top of your lungs at a concert.

LCND

It is world knowledge that Davido bore so many losses last year and this song has hinted at his grief. He pointed out how the people he loves will be watching over him from above but he will still try to live his life fully before he has to leave the world.

Champion Sound

This beautiful Amapiano song he made with Focalistic a while ago is a song that can not fade. The rise and fall of the beat, and the beautiful play on words in the lyrics. The part where he said, “Light me up o Faraday”. Faraday is famous for electricity and it rhymed with the last word on the previous line. This song will have you doing dance steps in your head that you cannot do in reality.

With the back-to-back hit, I am not stuttering when I say this album is a 10. Whatever mood you are in, the album has a song for it. In one word, it is “beautiful”.