Afro-fusion superstar Burna Boy was left stunned at his lavish 34th birthday celebration after his mother and manager, Bose Ogulu, gifted him a nostalgic and culturally rich surprise: a live performance by legendary fuji icon Adewale Ayuba.
The celebration, which took place on Tuesday night, July 2, was filled with friends, family, and industry colleagues. But the most emotional highlight came when Ayuba stepped into the venue and delivered an electrifying fuji performance tailored just for the Grammy-winning singer.
The moment was captured in a now-viral video posted by other attendees, showing Burna’s visibly emotional and joyous reaction to the surprise.
The unexpected performance was orchestrated by Bose Ogulu, often referred to as “Mama Burna”, who has managed her son’s career with strategic precision and maternal flair.
Known for championing African heritage and authenticity, she opted to incorporate a classic Yoruba musical element into the festivities, offering both a tribute to Burna’s roots and a generational bridge between Afrobeat and fuji.
In the video, Burna Boy is seen smiling and slightly overwhelmed as Ayuba sings his praises in his signature energetic style. Guests cheered as the veteran performer blended traditional fuji with customized lyrical references to Burna Boy’s musical journey, achievements, and cultural pride.
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Fans across social media have praised the surprise as “iconic” and “deeply cultural,” applauding the seamless blend of old and new in Nigerian music.
Some noted how Burna’s reaction revealed his respect for Nigeria’s musical heritage and hinted at the emotional impact of receiving such a tribute from an artist whose music dominated the Nigerian soundscape in the ’90s and early 2000s.
Burna Boy, born Damini Ogulu on July 2 1991, has often spoken about his mother’s influence both in his personal life and career trajectory. This birthday surprise once again reaffirmed their close bond and her keen awareness of how to honor his legacy in ways that matter deeply.
The event continues to trend on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), with fans speculating whether a collaboration between Burna Boy and Ayuba may be in the works.
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