Burna Boy has taken to Instagram to address the backlash he received after commenting that no one should feel obligated to be his fan following an incident at one of his shows where a couple was reportedly sleeping.
In a lengthy post, the Grammy-winning artist defended his stance, emphasizing that he has long come to terms with criticism and that he has developed a “bulletproof” mindset. He compared disruptive behavior at his concerts to making a pilot uncomfortable on a plane or disturbing a teacher in class, saying such actions are unacceptable regardless of the circumstances.
“My shows have people who have beaten cancer or overcome serious challenges, and none of them have ever slept lol. I leave my soul on every stage I get on, even if it's only 10 people in attendance,” he wrote. “I will gladly be cancelled if we are now in a world where you can treat me like a stripper, slap my ass and tell me to keep dancing because you throw $100 at me.”
Burna Boy explained that his initial comment was actually a joke he made with his band, not a direct reference to the couple, but he said critics quickly twisted his words to suggest he doesn’t appreciate his fans.
“If you hate me so much, either kill me or leave me alone,” he added. He also reflected on his personal struggles and insisted that he never seeks pity, saying, “I love who loves me and respect who respects me. Free Sudan, Free Congo, Free Nigeria.”
The singer concluded by acknowledging that he might be wrong but stood by his feelings in the moment. “I sincerely apologize if I'm wrong, I'm not always right, but I feel right about this. Anyway, I’m just human so fuck me,” he wrote.
Burna Boy also lamented that the media and social media rarely highlight the good he does, instead amplifying moments when he is perceived to have “messed up.”
“They never post any of the good I do in this world but they go wild and viral when they feel I’ve finally ‘fucked up.’ I’ve seen people who never even acknowledged my existence before now posting how ‘This is not cool’ or writing think pieces on me now. Astagfirullah.”
His post has sparked widespread discussion, with fans and observers weighing in on both his apology and his perspective on fan behavior at live performances.
