Photo File: Burnaboy’s Fifth Album cover ‘Twice As Tall’

It is now five years since Nigerian music superstar, Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, released his Grammy-winning fifth studio album, ‘Twice As Tall’. The album, which dropped on August 14, 2020, has since become a landmark project in the annals of Nigerian music, cementing Burna Boy’s place as one of the most influential African artists of his generation.

Prior to the release of ‘Twice As Tall’, Burna Boy had already made significant strides on the global stage with his critically acclaimed fourth studio album, ‘African Giant’, released in 2019. That project not only catapulted him into international stardom but also earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Global Music Album, making him the first Nigerian pop artist to be nominated in that category as a lead act. Although he lost the award to Beninese legend Angelique Kidjo, the defeat served as a catalyst for what would become one of the most ambitious and impactful albums in Nigerian music history.

Fuelled by the desire to rise above the disappointment and prove his mettle, Burna Boy returned to the studio with renewed vigour and a clear mission—to create a body of work that would not only resonate globally but also reflect his African heritage and personal evolution. The result was ‘Twice As Tall’, a 15-track album that showcased Burna Boy at his artistic peak, blending genres, cultures, and philosophies into a cohesive and compelling narrative.

To ensure the album met the highest standards, Burna Boy enlisted the expertise of American music mogul Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs, who served as Executive Producer. The collaboration brought a unique fusion of African authenticity and global polish, with Burna Boy maintaining his signature sound while embracing broader sonic influences. The album’s cover art, featuring the iconic Bini Bronze head, Egyptian pyramids, and towering walls symbolic of ancient Sub-Saharan African kingdoms, underscored its Pan-African vision.

On the musical front, Burna Boy traversed the continent and beyond, delivering a rich tapestry of sounds and messages. In ‘Time Flies’, he teamed up with Kenyan band Sauti Sol for a soulful folk rendition that celebrated the fleeting nature of life. On ‘Monsters You Made’, featuring Coldplay’s Chris Martin, he tackled themes of neo-colonialism and systemic corruption, offering a bold critique of the socio-political realities facing Africa.

His Nigerian roots were proudly displayed on tracks like ‘Onyeka’, a Highlife-infused love song that paid tribute to the legendary Onyeka Onwenu, and ‘Bebo’ and ‘Commas’, which blended Afrobeats rhythms with witty commentary on societal trends, including a humorous jab at cosmetic surgery. Burna Boy’s lyrical dexterity and unapologetic worldview were evident throughout the album, particularly on tracks like ‘Way Too Big’, where he asserted his dominance, and ‘23’, a reflective piece inspired by basketball icon Michael Jordan.

The album also featured standout collaborations with international acts such as Naughty By Nature on a boom bap-inspired track, and British rapper Stormzy on ‘Real Life’, a poignant exploration of fame and authenticity. On ‘Bank On It’, Burna Boy exuded confidence and self-assurance, delivering a powerful closing statement that encapsulated the album’s essence.

‘Twice As Tall’ was not just a musical triumph; it was a cultural moment that redefined the standards for Nigerian albums. Its Grammy win for Best Global Music Album was a historic achievement that validated Burna Boy’s vision and elevated the global perception of Nigerian music. Commercially, the album was a success, with several tracks becoming staples in Burna Boy’s live performances and resonating with audiences worldwide.

Five years on, ‘Twice As Tall’ remains a modern classic—a bold, introspective, and genre-defying project that continues to inspire artists and fans alike. It stands as a testament to Burna Boy’s resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to excellence, and its legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.