Rapper Burna Boy has stirred up controversy after confronting a couple he noticed at his concert.
A video making the rounds on social media captures Nigerian artist Damini Ogulu, known as Burna Boy, halting his performance after becoming annoyed with the actions of a few audience members.
It’s not unusual for artists to pause their shows due to occurrences among the crowd, including directly addressing certain individuals. However, Burna Boy’s approach has left his fans divided.
The incident occurred during Burna Boy’s performance at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado on November 12. The artist mentioned he was under the weather but chose to proceed with the concert despite his illness.
One attendee shared their experience, noting that after the initial song, Burna Boy addressed the crowd: “Y’all, I almost didn’t make the show. I’m so sick, I had to take so many medications, but you know what? The show goes on.”
The situation escalated when he noticed a couple appearing to sleep during his set.
An audience member recounted on social media that the artist had reached the end of his performance when he observed the two seemingly dozing off.
She wrote: “Everytime, he sings a song, he goes, ‘Can I get water?’ Like three songs left, he was like, ‘Is that person sleeping? I told y’all I was sick and the fact y’all sitting down here and sleeping as I’m giving y’all my best’.”
Footage from the event, now widely circulated online, shows Burna Boy stopping the performance to address the sleeping pair directly.
“We’re doing this s**t because we’re doing it and we love you, you understand?” he commented.
“So, when I stand up here and see you over there with your girl sleeping in front of me, this is where ya f**k off. You understand, so please take her the f**k home.”
Firm in his stance, Burna Boy refused to continue until they were removed, prompting security to step in and escort them out.
“Yo, hurry up. Wallahi, I’m not doing another song till you go home,” he stated.
The artist’s reaction sparked outrage among some, with one concert-goer remarking: “I swear I no go comot, make the show better scatter. I paid for the tickets, and I will go nowhere.”
Another voiced: “What a jerk! The first thing that crossed my mind was how exhausted must one be to fall asleep in the middle of a concert?”
Another individual questioned: “What if they had an illness or a medical emergency? They paid to be there too. Sounds like his ego as an artist got the best of him.”
Conversely, some supported Burna Boy, questioning why they attended if they intended to sleep.
They commented: “It’s simple, if you’re lucky enough to sit front row at a Burna Boy concert, bring the same energy he brings on stage. It’s not a movie night, it’s an experience.
“If you can’t keep up, don’t block someone else’s vibe. Burna just kept the energy pure.”
A request for comment has been sent to Burna Boy’s representatives.