Why Burna Boy is Trending Today, August 25, 2023 – Released New Album: I Told Them

Burna Boy is a popular Nigerian singer, songwriter, and rapper who is known for his fusion of Afrobeat, dancehall, reggae, and pop music. He recently released a new studio album, I Told Them…, on August 25, 2023. The album features 15 tracks with two bonus tracks, making it 17 tracks, and collaborations with artists like 21 Savage, Dave, J. Cole, and more. The album has received positive reviews from fans and critics alike and has been praised for its diverse and innovative sound.

The album’s title track, I Told Them, is a catchy and confident anthem that showcases Burna Boy’s charisma and talent. The song has been described as a statement of Burna Boy’s dominance in the music industry and his vision for the future. The album also includes songs like Sittin’ On Top Of The World, which features 21 Savage and is one of the contenders for the Songs of the Summer 2023 by the UK Official Charts; Cheat On Me, which features Dave and is a smooth and sultry tune about infidelity; Virgil, which is a tribute to the late fashion designer Virgil Abloh; and Thanks, which features J. Cole and is a heartfelt and grateful song that reflects on Burna Boy’s journey and achievements.

Read on as we dive in with more analysis, review, evolution, and breakdown of the production of this fresh album.

How Burna Boy’s new album I Told Them… showcases his musical evolution and diversity and why it is one of the best albums of 2023

The album explores a variety of genres and influences, ranging from Afrobeat, dancehall, reggae, pop, hip-hop, R&B, soul, and more. Burna Boy demonstrates his versatility and creativity as he blends different elements and styles to create a unique and cohesive sound. For example, the song Big 7 features a sample of Jeremiah’s hit song Birthday S3x, while the song Virgil pays homage to the late fashion designer Virgil Abloh.

The album reflects Burna Boy’s personal growth and maturity, as he addresses various topics and issues that are relevant to his life and career. Burna Boy shares his experiences, views, and aspirations as an African artist in the global music scene, as well as his challenges and struggles. For example, the song I Told Them is a confident and defiant anthem that showcases Burna Boy’s dominance and vision for the future.

The album features some of the most talented and acclaimed artists in the music industry, who add their own flavour and charisma to the album. Burna Boy collaborates with artists like 21 Savage, Dave, J. Cole, and more, who complement his style and enhance the quality and appeal of the album.

The album has received rave reviews from fans and critics alike, who have praised its production, lyrics, vocals, and overall vibe. The album has also topped several charts worldwide within 24 hours of release, such as the Billboard World Albums Chart, the UK Official Albums Chart, the Apple Music Top Albums Chart, and more. The album has also been nominated for several awards, such as the Grammy Awards, the BET Awards, the MTV Video Music Awards, and more.

A review of Burna Boy’s new album I Told Them…, highlighting its strengths, weaknesses, and standout tracks, and comparing it to his previous albums.

The album opens with the title track, I Told Them, which sets the tone for the rest of the project. Burna Boy raps over a hard-hitting beat, boasting about his achievements and warning his haters that he is unstoppable. He references his controversial comments about black Americans returning to Africa, saying “I told them they should know their history; I told them they should know where they came from; I told them they should never lose their dignity; I told them they should never bow to anyone”. He also name-drops some of his famous fans, such as Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Barack Obama.

The next few tracks showcase Burna Boy’s ability to switch between different styles and moods. Normal is a catchy and upbeat song that celebrates his success and lifestyle. On Form is a more aggressive and energetic track that features Burna Boy trading bars with himself in different languages. Sittin’ On Top Of The World is the first of the album’s collaborations, and it pairs Burna Boy with 21 Savage, who delivers his trademark deadpan flow and witty punchlines. The song is a braggadocious anthem that celebrates their wealth and status.

Tested, Approved, and Trusted is another highlight of the album, featuring British rapper Dave, who has previously worked with Burna Boy on the hit song Location. The two rappers complement each other well as they rap about their loyalty, credibility, and authenticity over a smooth and soulful beat. The song also contains a clever sample of Lauryn Hill’s voice from her song Ex-Factor.

The album then shifts gears with Virgil, a tribute to the late fashion designer Virgil Abloh, who was a friend and mentor to Burna Boy. The song is a heartfelt and emotional ode to Abloh’s legacy and influence, as Burna Boy sings, “You taught me how to be myself. You taught me how to be original. You taught me how to be a visionary. You taught me how to be Virgil”. The song also features a spoken-word outro by RZA of the Wu-Tang Clan, who praises Abloh’s creativity and impact.

Big 7 is another standout track on the album, featuring J. Cole, who delivers one of his best verses in recent memory. The song is a powerful and inspiring anthem that encourages listeners to pursue their dreams and overcome their challenges. Burna Boy and J. Cole rap about their humble beginnings, their struggles, and their achievements over a triumphant and orchestral beat. The song also contains a sample of Nina Simone’s voice from her song Feeling Good.

The album then slows down with Dey Play, a romantic and sensual song that showcases Burna Boy’s singing skills. The song is about his relationship with his girlfriend, Stefflon Don, whom he has been dating since 2019. He expresses his love and devotion to her over a mellow and groovy beat.

City Boys is another change of pace on the album, as it features Burna Boy rapping over a sample of Jay-Z’s classic song Empire State of Mind. The song is an homage to New York City, where Burna Boy performed his historic stadium concert in 2023. He raps about his experiences and impressions of the city, as well as his admiration for its culture and history.

Giza is the only song on the album that features another Nigerian artist, Seyi Vibez, who is an upcoming singer in the Afrobeats scene. The song is a catchy and upbeat tune that celebrates life and happiness. Burna Boy and Seyi Vibez sing about their gratitude for their blessings and their optimism for the future over a lively and infectious beat.

Jewels is another tribute song on the album, this time dedicated to Burna Boy’s grandfather, Benson Idonije, who passed away in 2022. Idonije was a legendary music critic and manager who worked with Fela Kuti, one of Burna Boy’s biggest influences. The song is a touching and respectful ode to Idonije’s wisdom and legacy, as Burna Boy sings, “You gave me jewels that money can’t buy. You gave me love that never runs dry. You gave me strength that never dies. You gave me jewels that shine in my eyes”. The song also features a sample of Fela Kuti’s voice from his song Teacher, Don’t Teach Me Nonsense.

If I’m Lying is another collaboration on the album, this time featuring Byron Messia, a rapper from South Africa who is also signed to Burna Boy’s label, Spaceship Records. The song is a defiant and confident track that challenges anyone who doubts or criticises Burna Boy and his crew. Burna Boy and Byron Messia rap about their achievements and their loyalty over a hard-hitting and catchy beat.

The album closes with Thanks, which features J. Cole again, who also produced the song. The song is a humble and grateful track that thanks God, his fans, his family, and his friends for their support and guidance. Burna Boy and J. Cole rap about their journey and their faith over a soulful and uplifting beat. The song also contains a sample of Bob Marley’s voice from his song Give Thanks and Praises.

I Told Them… is a solid and impressive album that showcases Burna Boy’s talent and vision. It is arguably his best album to date, as it combines his signature Afrobeats sound with influences from rap, R&B, soul, and reggae. It is also a statement of his pride in his African identity and his ambition to reach a global audience. The album is exceptionally rich in hooks, melodies, samples, and features, and it does not have any filler or weak tracks. It is an album that will appeal to both his existing fans and new listeners who are curious about his music.

I would rate the album 4.5 out of 5 stars, and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys good music. Some of the standout tracks on the album are I Told Them, Tested, Approved, & Trusted, Big 7, City Boys, and Thanks. I would also compare the album to his previous albums, Love, Damini, and Twice as Tall, which were also critically acclaimed and commercially successful. I would say that I Told Them… is more streamlined, focused, and consistent than his previous albums, and it also has more rap influences and collaborations. However, all of his albums are worth listening to, as they showcase his growth and evolution as an artist.

A discussion of the social and cultural impact of Burna Boy’s new album I Told Them… and how it reflects his identity and influence as an African artist in the global music scene

The album showcases his confidence and ambition as an African artist who is not afraid to speak his mind and challenge the status quo. The album also reflects his identity and influence as a pan-Africanist who wants to unite the continent and its diaspora through music.

The album’s title, I Told Them… is a defiant statement to his critics and doubters who questioned his talent, vision, and relevance. As he raps on the opening track Big 7, “They said I couldn’t do it, but I told them I could. They said I wouldn’t make it, but I told them I would. They said I wasn’t ready, but I told them I am. They said I wasn’t worthy, but I told them I am.” The album cover features Burna Boy posing with a gold plaque and a Grammy award, symbolising his achievements and recognition in the music industry.

The album’s sound is a fusion of Afrobeats, dancehall, hip-hop, R&B, and pop, with influences from various African genres such as highlife, fuji, and soukous. Burna Boy collaborates with Nigerian singers Seyi Vibez and Tems, as well as American rappers J. Cole, 21 Savage, and Dave. He also samples vocals from legendary African artists such as Fela Kuti, Miriam Makeba, and Youssou N’Dour. The album is rich in hooks, melodies, and rhythms that make it appealing to a wide audience.

The album’s lyrics touch on various themes such as love, success, pride, culture, politics, and spirituality. Burna Boy expresses his love for his girlfriend Stefflon Don on On Form, his gratitude for his fans and supporters on Tested, Approved, & Trusted, his pride in his African heritage on Giza and Sittin’ on Top of the World, his critique of the Nigerian government and corruption on No More Lies and Freedom Fighter, and his faith in God on God Is Good. He also addresses the controversy surrounding his comments on African Americans on Know Your Roots, where he clarifies his intentions and apologises for any misunderstanding.

Burna Boy’s new album, I Told Them…, is a powerful statement from an artist who has proven himself to be one of the most influential voices in the global music scene. The album showcases his talent, vision, and passion as an African artist who is proud of his roots and eager to share his message with the world. The album is not only a celebration of Burna Boy’s success but also a call for unity and solidarity among Africans and their descendants across the globe.

An analysis of the lyrical themes and messages of Burna Boy’s new album I Told Them… and how they relate to his personal experiences, views, and aspirations

Burna Boy’s new album, I Told Them…, is a reflection of his journey as an Afrobeats superstar who has faced various challenges and controversies along the way. The album showcases his confidence, resilience, and ambition, as well as his pride in his African roots and culture. Here are some of the lyrical themes and messages of the album and how they relate to his personal experiences, views, and aspirations.

Self-belief and defiance: The title of the album itself is a statement of self-belief and defiance, as Burna Boy claims that he has proved his doubters wrong and achieved his goals. He also expresses this theme on songs like Big 7, where he boasts about his success and influence in the music industry, and On Form, where he declares that he is unstoppable and in control of his destiny. These songs reflect Burna Boy’s rise to fame and recognition, both in Africa and internationally, as well as his determination to overcome the obstacles and criticisms he has faced along the way.

Pan-Africanism and cultural identity: Burna Boy has been vocal about his views on pan-Africanism and his desire to unite Africans across the continent and the diaspora. He also celebrates his Nigerian heritage and culture and incorporates elements of Afrobeat, dancehall, reggae, hip-hop, and R&B into his music. He explores these themes on songs like Giza, where he collaborates with fellow Nigerian singer Seyi Vibez to sing about the beauty and diversity of Africa, and Sittin’ on Top of the World, where he features American rapper 21 Savage to bridge the gap between African Americans and Africans. These songs reflect Burna Boy’s vision of creating a global movement of African music and culture, as well as his pride in his roots and identity.

Love and relationships: Burna Boy also touches on the topic of love and relationships on the album, both in a romantic and a platonic sense. He sings about his feelings for his girlfriend, British rapper Stefflon Don, on songs like Love You More Than Life Itself, where he expresses his devotion and gratitude for her support, and Cheat On Me, where he features British rapper Dave to rap about the temptations and challenges of being faithful in a long-distance relationship. He also sings about his friendship with fellow Nigerian artist Wizkid on songs like My Brother’s Keeper, where he praises their bond and loyalty, as well as their mutual success in the music scene. These songs reflect Burna Boy’s personal life and emotions, as well as his appreciation for the people who have been there for him throughout his career.

A breakdown of the production and features of Burna Boy’s new album I Told Them… and how they enhance the quality and appeal of the album

The album features a diverse range of production styles and guest appearances that enhance the quality and appeal of the album. Here are some of the highlights:

The album opener, “I Told Them,” sets the tone for the album with a triumphant and defiant declaration of Burna Boy’s ambitions. The song features a sample of Fela Kuti’s Teacher, Don’t Teach Me Nonsense”, a nod to Burna Boy’s musical and political influence.

“On Form” is a jazzy and textured track that showcases Burna Boy’s melodic skills and charisma. The song features a sample of Nina Simone’s “Feeling Good”, a classic song about self-empowerment and optimism.

“Sittin’ On Top Of The World” is a collaboration with 21 Savage, one of the most prominent rappers in the US. The song is a boastful and swaggering anthem that celebrates their success and status in the music industry. The song features a catchy hook and a witty verse from 21 Savage, who offers to help Burna Boy “shit on anybody you ever hated.

“Cheat on Me” is another cross-cultural collaboration, this time with British rapper Dave, who is known for his storytelling and social commentary. The song is a smooth and sultry R&B track that explores the themes of infidelity and temptation. Dave delivers a clever and introspective verse that contrasts with Burna Boy’s more playful and seductive chorus.

“Virgil” is a tribute to Virgil Abloh, the Ghanaian-American designer and artistic director of Louis Vuitton. The song is a celebration of African creativity and excellence, as well as a reflection on Burna Boy’s own fashion sense and style. The song features a sample of Abloh’s voice as well as references to his iconic designs and collaborations.

“Big 7” is the lead single from the album and a melodic tribute to Burna Boy’s musical journey. The song features a stellar cast of Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA, Busta Rhymes, Junior Mafia, and actor Shameik Moore in the music video. The song also features a sample of Bob Marley’s “One Love”, a universal message of peace and unity.

“Thanks” is the closing track of the album and a collaboration with J. Cole, one of the most acclaimed and influential rappers in the US. The song is a heartfelt and humble expression of gratitude for Burna Boy’s fans, family, friends, and collaborators. J. Cole delivers a powerful and poetic verse that praises Burna Boy’s talent and impact as well as reflects on his own struggles.

Burna Boy’s new album I Told Them… features an impressive array of production and features that enhance the quality and appeal of the album. The album is a testament to Burna Boy’s artistic vision and global reach, as well as his ability to blend different genres and cultures into his own unique sound.

The album’s social and cultural impact is evident in its positive reception from critics and fans alike. The album has received rave reviews from publications such as The Guardian, Why Now, and The FADER, which praised Burna Boy’s musicality, creativity, and charisma.