Burna Boy released his third album, ‘Outside’, marking a significant turning point in his career. The album, consisting of 13 tracks, played a pivotal role in propelling the Afro-fusion artist to the apex of the music industry.
‘Outside’ arrived on the heels of Burna Boy’s sophomore album, which failed to position him for the success he aspired to achieve. In 2018, Burna Boy was recognized for his undeniable talent, yet he found himself in an Afrobeats purgatory, aspiring to reach the superstar status held by industry giants like Wizkid, Davido, and Olamide.
For Burna Boy, the key wasn’t just creating good music; he needed that one breakthrough song to elevate his fame and status. ‘Outside’ turned out to be the catalyst he needed, bringing with it a stroke of luck that altered the trajectory of his career.
The album showcased his versatility as an artist, drawing inspiration from Caribbean Dancehall, Ajegunle’s Ragga style, and Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat. Notably personal in its exploration of his experiences and identity, ‘Outside’ delved into his memories of growing up in Port Harcourt, while maintaining a conscious thematic approach.
Sonic coherence, a rarity in the Nigerian music scene at the time, was a notable achievement of the album. Tracks like ‘Heaven’s Gate’ featuring Lily Allen demonstrated his prowess in Dancehall, while ‘Where I’m From’ and ‘Devil In California’ showcased his exceptional penmanship. The Afrobeat freestyle ‘YE’ resonated particularly well with listeners.
Though the album received critical acclaim, its commercial success was solidified when American megastar Kanye West released an EP in the same month, titling it ‘YE’. This serendipitous alignment significantly boosted Burna Boy’s global visibility.
Six years after its release, ‘Outside’ remains a cornerstone in Burna Boy’s discography, with many considering it a classic. It stands as the genesis of his unparalleled international journey, culminating in his status as a Grammy-winning Afrobeats megastar. ‘Outside’ remains a testament to Burna Boy’s artistic evolution and the transformative power of a single album in shaping a musician’s destiny.