Grammy-winning Nigerian artist Burna Boy has once again ignited conversations with a bold statement, this time drawing a direct parallel between himself and some of the most revered figures in classical music history.
In a recent Instagram Story, the self-proclaimed Odogwu declared, “E suppose be Beethoven, Mozart, Handel then ODOGWU… Na the only reason why I dey always vex.”
The post, which quickly circulated across social media platforms, sees Burna Boy placing his moniker, “ODOGWU” (an Igbo word meaning “great man” or “hero”), directly after legendary composers Ludwig van Beethoven, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and George Frideric Handel. This audacious comparison suggests that he views his musical contributions and legacy on par with these titans of classical composition, implying that any less recognition is a source of frustration (“Na the only reason why I dey always vex”).
Burna Boy has a history of making strong assertions about his position in the global music landscape, often emphasizing his unique sound and impact. This latest statement, however, takes his self-assessment to a new level, moving beyond contemporary comparisons to place himself within a historical lineage of musical genius.
While some might view the comparison as audacious, it aligns with Burna Boy’s consistent narrative of pushing boundaries and challenging perceptions of African music. His continuous global success, including a Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album, and his ability to fuse various genres while maintaining a distinctly African identity, have indeed cemented his place as a significant force in modern music.
The statement has sparked lively debate among fans and critics alike, with some applauding his confidence and others questioning the direct comparison to composers from an entirely different musical era and tradition. Regardless of opinion, Burna Boy’s latest pronouncement ensures that he remains a central figure in discussions about musical artistry and legacy.
Burna Boy compares himself to the greatest classical music composers via his IG Story:
π£οΈ “E suppose be Beethoven, Mozart, Handel then ODOGWU…” pic.twitter.com/RXDOw4dNLY
β ππππ¨π π§ππππ¦ π (@AlbumTalksHQ) July 30, 2025
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