Award-winning Nigerian Afro-fusion superstar, Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy, has revealed the deep emotional and psychological battles he has endured over the years, admitting that he had “the most reasons to not exist anymore” but chose to persevere.
The Grammy-winning artist made this powerful revelation during a recent interview with NSTV, ahead of the release of his much-anticipated eighth studio album, “No Sign of Weakness.” Scheduled to drop on July 11, 2025, the project will be released under Atlantic Records, Spaceship Entertainment, and Bad Habit, promising to deliver not just new sounds but deeply personal stories of strength and survival.
“I have had the most reasons to not exist anymore, but I have shown no sign of weakness,” Burna Boy said. “That’s what this album is saying. Through everything, no sign of weakness will be shown. That is what I want everyone coming after me to do – show no sign of weakness.”
This rare emotional openness from Burna Boy sheds light on the personal battles he has often masked behind bold lyrics and global performances. Known for his strong persona and boundary-pushing music, Burna has grown to become one of Africa’s most recognizable voices, transcending borders with hits like “Ye,” “Last Last,” and “City Boys.”
While the artist didn’t delve into specifics about the exact challenges he faced, fans and industry observers are already speculating that the upcoming album may explore deeper themes of trauma, healing, and resilience — possibly giving listeners a more intimate look at Burna’s journey beyond the fame.
The Port Harcourt-born star has consistently proven himself not just as a performer but also as a storyteller who blends Afrobeat, reggae, dancehall, and hip-hop influences to narrate African identity and personal evolution.
His last album, “I Told Them,” released in 2023, received widespread acclaim and further cemented his position as a genre-defying artist. However, “No Sign of Weakness” seems poised to take a more reflective tone, offering a vulnerable but empowering message for his global fan base.
In the same interview, Burna Boy shared a message aimed at upcoming artists and youth facing mental health struggles or difficult life paths.
“The world won’t always give you peace. But you have to create your own and keep moving. No matter what’s happening, don’t let them see you break.”
The album’s title and theme may also reflect the artist’s response to critics and the intense spotlight he often faces. Whether on social media or in the press, Burna Boy has never shied away from controversy — but he now appears to be channeling those experiences into something powerful.
Although full tracklist details remain under wraps, sources close to the project hint at collaborations with both Nigerian and international artists. There is speculation that Wizkid, J. Cole, and Tems might feature on some of the tracks. The album is expected to include a mix of introspective ballads, Afrobeat bangers, and conscious storytelling.
Fans are already counting down to July 11, with many taking to social media to express admiration for Burna’s courage in speaking about mental and emotional endurance — a topic rarely discussed openly by African male entertainers.
As Burna Boy prepares to launch “No Sign of Weakness” into the world, one thing is clear: beyond the hits and headlines, he remains a deeply human artist — vulnerable yet fearless, wounded but undefeated.