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‘No Sign of Weakness’ is my rock star truth — Burna Boy
Global Afrobeats icon Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has described his new album No Sign of Weakness as a bold celebration of resilience, survival, and staying true to oneself.
Speaking in an interview with AFP, the Grammy-winning artist explained that the project reflects his journey through personal and professional challenges while also paying tribute to those who remain authentic despite the pressures of fame.
“‘No Sign of Weakness’ is really like a celebration of the fact that I’m still here throughout all these years and all the trials and tribulations,” Burna Boy said. “I decided to intentionally make sure everyone on this project could comfortably and genuinely say they’re a rock star.”
Released on Friday, No Sign of Weakness is Burna Boy’s eighth studio album. This 16-track genre-bending project includes previously released singles such as Bundle by Bundle, Update, Sweet Love, and TaTaTa featuring American rapper Travis Scott.
The album brings together a rich cast of international collaborators, including rock legend Mick Jagger, country music breakout star Shaboozey, and Travis Scott, highlighting Burna Boy’s expanding global sound and ambition.
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In the reflective track “Dem Dey,” the Last Last crooner responds to a recent scandal involving a Nigerian influencer, while “Empty Chairs,” featuring Mick Jagger, sees Burna experiment with a blend of Afrobeat and rock.
The unexpected collaboration reportedly came to life through WhatsApp exchanges after British supermodel Naomi Campbell introduced both artists.
“That’s how I see the future of our music … music that’s supposed to last, music that you can perform forever,” he said. “That’s where I want to be when I’m that age.”
On Change Your Mind, Burna Boy features Nigerian-American country star Shaboozey, whose success in a traditionally non-African genre inspired admiration.
“Here’s an Igbo boy from the eastern part of Nigeria who comes to America as a young guy,” Burna said. “He’s flourishing in the country world. If I’m not proud of that, then I don’t think I can be proud of anything in life.”
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Burna Boy also touched on the burden of public scrutiny in Nigeria, particularly around politics and activism. Despite his decision to remain politically neutral, he says he often feels unfairly criticized.
“I feel blessed. I also feel great responsibility … I’m blamed for everything, most especially, things I couldn’t possibly be responsible for,” he stated. “I don’t vote, and I’ve never done it. But now, it’s to the point where even that: if I don’t vote, because I don’t say I’ll vote for this person or vote for that person, it’s a problem.”
To promote No Sign of Weakness, Burna Boy is set to embark on a world tour, kicking off in November with dates across North America. The tour promises a 360-degree stage setup designed to give fans the same immersive musical experience from every angle.
Despite the pressure, Burna Boy remains grounded in his love for the stage.
“This is going to sound selfish as hell but I definitely have more fun than everybody,” he said. “When I die, I want to go to a stage in Heaven. Every time I watch myself perform, I see a big smile on my face that I never see anywhere else.”
With No Sign of Weakness, Burna Boy once again pushes the envelope of African music, crafting an album that merges personal truths with global ambition—proof that the African Giant remains as defiant, inspired, and impactful as ever.
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