Burna Boy, the Afro-fusion superstar, has been making waves in the music industry with his expert sampling of American pop, soul, and hip-hop favorites. At the 2024 Grammy Awards, Burna Boy performed his Grammy-nominated hit “Sittin’ on Top of the World” with 21 Savage and Brandy, whose track “Top of the World” is famously sampled in Burna’s song.
Not only did Burna Boy sample Brandy’s track, but he also borrowed elements from Toni Braxton’s “He Wasn’t Man Enough” on his summer smash “Last Last.” Additionally, Naughty by Nature’s “Jamboree” played a part in two of Burna’s records, showcasing his versatility in incorporating different sounds into his music.
Burna Boy’s affinity for reworking old classics doesn’t stop there. He has referenced Michael Jackson’s works, including “I Want You Back” and “Dirty Diana,” in his tracks. The Nigerian singer-songwriter has also sampled songs from artists like Sade, Marc Anthony, and Jeremih, showcasing his diverse musical influences.
With 14 American songs sampled or interpolated throughout his discography, Burna Boy continues to push boundaries and create unique sounds that resonate with audiences worldwide. His ability to blend different genres and styles has solidified his position as a trailblazer in the music industry.