Explore the evolution of Burna Boy’s music with our ranking of his albums. From breakthrough hits to iconic releases, discover how his sound has shaped the global music scene.
Burna Boy has cemented himself as one of the most influential artists in Afrobeats and global music at large. With a distinct fusion of Afrobeats, reggae, dancehall, and hip-hop, he has continuously pushed the boundaries of African music. His catalog spans over a decade, showcasing immense growth and artistic evolution. But with such a diverse discography, which of his albums stands out as his best? As we anticipate No Sign Of Weakness, the much-publicized impending album from the African Giant, let’s take a deep dive into Burna Boy’s albums, ranking them from worst to best.
7. On a Spaceship (2015)
Following the success of his debut, Burna Boy sought to expand his sonic palette with On a Spaceship. Tracks like “Soke” and “Jealousy” highlighted his versatility, but the album’s length and inconsistent pacing made it a challenging listen. While it contains gems, it lacks the thematic focus that would later define his best works. In retrospect, this album feels like a transitional phase rather than a defining moment in his career.
6. L.I.F.E (2013)
Burna Boy’s debut album L.I.F.E (Leaving an Impact for Eternity) introduced the world to his unique sound. The project featured hits like “Like to Party,” “Run My Race,” and “Tonight,” which showcased his early knack for blending dancehall, reggae, and Afrobeats. However, despite its promising moments, the album lacked the cohesion and polish that his later works would achieve. While L.I.F.E set the foundation for his career, it remains his least refined project.
5. I Told Them (2023)
Burna Boy’s latest project, I Told Them, sees him fully embracing his confidence and status as a global icon. With a mix of hip-hop influences and Afrobeats, the album features collaborations with J. Cole (“Thanks”) and 21 Savage (“Sittin’ on Top of the World”). It’s a bold, self-assured project that reinforces his dominance. While it may not have the cultural significance of African Giant, it showcases his ability to evolve while staying true to his roots.
4. Love, Damini (2022)
As Burna Boy’s most introspective album to date, Love, Damini offers a glimpse into his struggles and reflections on fame. Featuring global collaborations with Ed Sheeran (“For My Hand”) and J Balvin (“Rollercoaster”), the album leans heavily into international appeal. While it produced major hits like “Last Last” and “It’s Plenty,” some critics felt it lacked the raw energy and storytelling depth of his best work. Nonetheless, it’s a solid effort that further cements his global dominance.
3. Outside (2018)
Outside marked a turning point in Burna Boy’s career, solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with. The album features standout tracks like “Ye,” “Heaven’s Gate” (feat. Lily Allen), and “Sekkle Down.” Ye, in particular, became an unexpected global sensation, boosting his profile significantly. The album’s production and songwriting showed maturity, but it still felt like a warm-up to what was to come.
2. Twice as Tall (2020)
Taking the second spot is Twice as Tall, the album that won Burna Boy his first Grammy for Best Global Music Album. Executive-produced by Diddy, the project blends African rhythms with global influences. Tracks like “Way Too Big,” “Monsters You Made,” and “Wonderful” showcase Burna’s storytelling prowess and his ability to tackle social and political themes. The album’s cohesion, production, and depth make it one of his most accomplished works to date.
1. African Giant (2019)
Widely regarded as the album that propelled Burna Boy to global superstardom, African Giant is a masterclass in Afro-fusion. Songs like “Anybody,” “Gbona,” and “Dangote” blend social consciousness with infectious rhythms. The album earned him a Grammy nomination and reinforced his status as an African music ambassador. While some tracks could have been trimmed for a tighter experience, African Giant remains his most impactful project and a defining moment in his career.
